Summer Celebrations Around DSM: Part 2

In the second part of our Summer Celebrations series, we highlight the mid-summer annual celebrations and festivals happening in Greater Des Moines (DSM). Each of our communities offers something special to help make the region a great place to work, live and play. Following the many closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, many communities will hold their summer celebrations, some in limited capacity. Even if you don’t live in the communities featured, you can still find a way to show your love for the region by helping to spread the word to your contacts and supporting the businesses and people who live in that community. By supporting each other, DSM grows faster and stronger!

Mid-Summer Celebrations

Chill on the Hill: June 25 + July 9, 2021

Chill on the Hill returns to Pleasant Hill, Iowa with live music, beer, food trucks and socializing.

Inaugural Corn Belt Weekend: July 8-10, 2021

The inaugural Corn Belt Weekend will take place at the Knoxville Raceway in Knoxville, Iowa. It is the first NASCAR national touring event to be held there. Events will include:

• NASCAR Camping World Truck Series practice on Thursday, July 8
• NASCAR Camping World Truck Series races on Friday, July 9
• USAC Sprint Car National Championship Series and POWRi War Sprints on Saturday, July 10

Find more information at knoxvilleraceway.com

Celebrate Ankeny: July 10, 2021

While Summerfest won’t return to Ankeny, Iowa in full until 2022, Celebrate Ankeny will take place July 10 with reduced attendance and seating. Events will include a coloring contest, live music and fireworks. See the 2021 Celebrate Ankeny announcement here.

Four Seasons Mini Fest: July 17, 2021

In Polk City, Iowa, the Four Seasons Mini Fest will include face painting, a petting zoo, a ring toss, inflatables, the Bill Riley Talent Show, as well as other events in the Town Square. Gut FEELING will play at the American Legion Post 232 from 8-11 p.m.

Shop Local

While you’re attending one of the community celebrations above, you might also consider stopping in at locally-owned shops and buying local. Check out our #DSMlocal Buying Guide and Restaurant Guide before you go for ideas on where to spend your dollars!

Share Our Story

Attending these celebrations is also a chance for you to become a DSM USA Ambassador by sharing what you do and see at these events with your social audiences. Use #DSMUSA on social media and join the #DSMUSA Facebook group to post about your experiences!

Named the #1 Best Place to Live in the Midwest and #2 Safest Place to Live, Greater Des Moines (DSM) is a city where you can have it all. Learn more about what it’s like to live here.

The Greater Des Moines Partnership calendar of events is a one-stop resource for activities taking place throughout the region. Find networking information for Greater Des Moines (DSM) businesses or events specific to Downtown DSM.