Mark Your Calendar: 5 Can’t-Miss Things to Do This Week: July 11-17

It’s summer in Greater Des Moines (DSM), and this week’s lineup of can’t-miss events brings a perfect mix of music, motorsports, small-town celebrations and unexpected creative flair. Whether you’re road-tripping to a rural winery, checking out BBQ competitions or catching high-speed action at the Speedway, there’s something happening in every corner of the region. You’ll also find big community festivals, classic county fair fun and outdoor events that are perfect for making the most of the summer season. Scroll on for five ways to soak up the sun and the good vibes this week across DSM.

Ankeny Summerfest

Friday, July 11 - Sunday, July 13, 2025 | The District at Prairie Trail, Ankeny
SummerFest is always a good time — but this year’s fest is pulling out all the stops to celebrate Ankeny’s 150th birthday! From the Grand Parade to carnival rides, fireworks and food trucks, this three-day event brings nonstop fun to The District. It’s free to attend and packed with live music, family activities and community pride. Whether you’re dancing in the beer garden, cheering on talent show performers or grabbing lemon shake-ups between rides, SummerFest is where memories are made. Don’t forget to stick around for fireworks lighting up the Ankeny sky!
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For even more summer fest vibes, you might also be interested in the Lower Beaver Summer Festival taking place this week on Saturday, July 12, 2025!

Iowa Speedway IndyCar Race Weekend

Friday, July 11 – Sunday, July 13, 2025 | Iowa Speedway, Newton
It’s time to rev your engines — INDYCAR is back at Iowa Speedway, and it’s bigger than ever. This three-day race weekend brings edge-of-your-seat speed, doubleheader races and serious adrenaline to Newton’s beloved short track. Whether you’re there for the roaring engines, pit crew drama or just the electric atmosphere, it’s a must for motorsport fans. Bring your earplugs and get ready for high-octane excitement at “The Fastest Short Track on the Planet.”
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The Middle of NOWhere Rural Art & Music Festival

Saturday, July 12, 2025 | I The Cellar Winery, Madrid
You don’t need skyscrapers to find great art—just head to The Cellar Winery in Madrid for the second annual Middle of NOWhere Rural Art & Music Festival. Created by muralist and arts advocate Siricasso, this unique celebration blends graffiti, hip-hop, food trucks, interactive art and small-town soul into one unforgettable day. It’s all about showcasing diversity and creativity in places you might not expect. Come for the music, stay for the collaborative energy and rural-meets-urban charm. Whether you’re a local or making the drive from DSM, this festival is proof that magic happens in the middle of nowhere.
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Bondu Blues & Brews

Saturday, July 12, 2025 | Downtown Bondurant, Bondurant
Bondurant knows how to throw a summer bash, and Bondu Blues & Brews brings the heat (and the BBQ). Head to downtown Bondurant for an evening filled with live blues music, craft brews and a sizzling new BBQ Challenge that will have your mouth watering. Taste test your way through People’s Choice ribs, watch balloon artists work their magic and rock out with Major Blues & the Mugshots. Between the smoky scents and soulful sounds, this community party hits all the right notes.
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This weekend, you can attend dance workshops, listen to live music and attend dance competitions during the DSM Breakerz Midwest Mayhem event taking place Saturday, July 12 - Sunday, July 13, 2025. On Saturday, head Downtown to Cowles Commons and Ballet Des Moines for fun and competition. On Sunday, Valley Junction Activity Center in West Des Moines will host workshops for ages 5+.

County Fairs

Multiple Dates & Locations in Greater Des Moines
Funnel cake? Check. Tractor pulls? You bet. There’s something about county fairs that just screams summer — and we’re all about it. Whether you’re catching a concert, cruising the midway or admiring hand-stitched quilts in the 4-H barn, these local fairs are full of tradition, heart and hometown fun. This week’s county fair lineup includes:

• Southern Iowa Fair - Mahaska County | Oskaloosa: Friday, July 11 – Thursday, July 17, 2025
• Marion County Fair | Knoxville: Friday, July 11 – Thursday, July 17, 2025
• Madison County Fair | Winterset: Wednesday, July 16 – Friday, July 20, 2025
• Polk County Fair | Des Moines: Saturday, July 12 – Friday, July 18, 2025

 

For additional events and seasonal festivities coming up in Greater Des Moines (DSM), visit the calendar of events. You can also find live music happening each week thanks to the “Live Music This Week in DSM” blog series. Plus, follow @DSMpartnership on Instagram for even more things-you-just-can’t-miss happening around DSM.