Your Weekend Plans in Greater DSM? These 5 Events Are Calling (May 2-8)

This week in Greater Des Moines (DSM), you’ve got every excuse to get out and explore the spring vibes. Whether you’re into colorful festivals, giant flying kites or peaceful moments in nature, there’s something happening in the region that’ll match your mood. You can kick off your weekend with a historic farmers’ market milestone in Downtown DSM, take a scenic day trip to tiptoe through thousands of tulips or soak in some peace and mindfulness on World Labyrinth Day. There’s even high-speed racing action for adrenaline seekers and a full-on kite fest for family fun. However you like to fill your weekend, DSM has something for you. Keep reading to find five can’t-miss things to do this week!

Pella’s Annual Tulip Time Festival

Thursday, May 1 – Saturday, May 3, 2025 | Central Park, Pella
You haven’t truly experienced spring in Iowa until you’ve wandered through Pella during Tulip Time. The town transforms into a living postcard, bursting with vibrant tulips, Dutch dancers, horse-drawn carriages and enough poffertjes (tiny Dutch pancakes!) to keep you coming back every year. Expect parades, performances, museum tours and rows upon rows of jaw-dropping flowers — especially Tulip Avenue in Central Park. It’s a celebration of Dutch heritage, local pride and small-town charm wrapped up into one colorful, three-day event. Bonus: everyone wears traditional Dutch attire, so don’t be surprised if you spot a few wooden shoes.
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Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market Opening Day

Saturday, May 3, 2025 | Historic Court District, Downtown DSM
Fifty seasons strong and still going! The Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market is back for another year — and it’s kicking things off in style this Saturday. Stroll through the Historic Court District and soak up the energy of fresh flowers, sizzling breakfast burritos, live music and all the Iowan-grown produce you can carry. With vendors offering everything from handmade art to farm-fresh cheese, it’s a one-stop shop for good vibes and great finds. Whether you’re a market regular or a first-time visitor, Opening Day is the perfect time to jump in and see why this tradition is such a beloved part of DSM’s Saturday scene.
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Kites on the Green

Saturday, May 3, 2025 | Commons Park, Johnston
If you’ve ever wanted to see a sky full of giant, whimsical kites soaring above a sea of smiling faces, Kites on the Green is calling your name. This beloved family event takes over Johnston’s Commons Park with kite-building workshops, kite-fighting contests (yes, that’s a real thing), inflatable obstacle courses, live music and more. Bring a blanket, grab a snack and spend the afternoon marveling at the sky. Pro tip: you can even build your own kite for free. It’s part nostalgia, part wholesome chaos — and all fun.
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World Labrinth Day

Saturday, May 3, 2025 | Brenton Arboretum, Dallas Center
Slow down, take a deep breath and find your zen at World Labyrinth Day at Brenton Arboretum. Whether you’re into group meditation, yoga, poetry or just wandering mindfully through the labyrinth, this event invites you to unplug and reconnect — with nature, your community and yourself. Bring your picnic blanket and maybe a drum or singing bowl (seriously, it’s encouraged), and spend the day embracing peace, creativity and intention. No RSVP, no stress — just show up with an open mind and a curious spirit. It’s free, open to all ages and abilities and full of heart.
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Knoxville Championship Series

Saturday, May 3, 2025 | Knoxville Raceway, Knoxville
Start your engines! Knoxville Raceway is revving things up with Week 2 of the 2025 Championship Series, and it’s shaping up to be one high-octane Saturday night. Featuring 410 Sprints, Randall Roofing 360s and Pro Sprint Cars, this is your chance to catch some of the fastest dirt-track action around. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., hot laps start at 6:30 p.m. and then it’s go-time at 7:45 p.m. Whether you’re a racing regular or just down for a night of adrenaline-fueled fun, this iconic track knows how to bring the heat.
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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.