5 Can’t-Miss Things Happening Across Greater DSM: Aug. 28-Sept. 3

The calendar is turning from August to September, and communities across the Greater Des Moines (DSM) region are keeping the fun going. This week brings opportunities to experience everything from live music and global culture to fashion, outdoor adventures and a memorable start to fall at the farm. You can spend an evening listening to music under the open sky, discover flavors and traditions from around the world or head out on a day trip to explore another DSM community. With plenty happening throughout the region, it’s a great week to try something you haven’t done before. Here are five can’t-miss things happening across DSM Friday, Aug. 28 – Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026.

The Fashion Circuit Fashion Show in West Des Moines

The Fashion Circuit Fall-Winter 2026 Fashion Show

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 | RecPlex, West Des Moines
Fashion takes the field at the RecPlex as The Fashion Circuit returns for its fourth season with The Beautiful Game. Inspired by football culture and the global energy surrounding the FIFA World Cup, this Fall-Winter 2026 runway experience explores how sport intersects with fashion, identity, music, art and community. Designers will bring their own interpretations to the theme, drawing from ideas like national identity, nostalgia, rivalry, celebration and movement. The outdoor soccer field becomes the runway from 4-7 p.m., and guests are encouraged to dress to impress. The celebration continues later that night with an official after-party at Salon Bounce in Des Moines.
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World Food & Music Festival

Friday, Aug. 28 – Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026 | Western Gateway Park, Des Moines
How many countries can you experience in one weekend without leaving DSM? The World Food & Music Festival returns to Western Gateway Park with three days dedicated to the flavors, sounds and traditions of cultures from around the world. Follow your taste buds from vendor to vendor, watch cultural performances, check out interactive activities and cooking demonstrations and enjoy live music throughout the weekend. The Pork Tornadoes headline Friday night, followed by Parranderos Latin Combo on Saturday. Admission is free, so stop by for a few hours or come back throughout the weekend to keep exploring everything The Festival has to offer.
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While you’re in Downtown DSM, keep the fun going at Ingersoll LIVE, happening Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026, from 3-10 p.m.

Matt Woods Band

Saturday Aug. 29, 2026 | Covered Bridges Winery, Winterset
Settle in for an evening of blues, roots music and Iowa countryside views at Covered Bridges Winery. Iowa native Matt Woods and his band take the stage from 6:30-9:30 p.m., bringing a sound that moves from traditional Delta and hill country blues to gospel, country, folk and electric blues. Come early and grab dinner from Dogtown Gourmet Hotdogs, serving from 5:30-8:30 p.m., then find a spot for the show. Music will be outdoors weather permitting, and seating is limited, so bring your lawn chair. Admission is $5 per person.
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Sounds of Summer Concert Series: Not Quite Brothers

Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026 | Johnston Town Center, Johnston
Turn up the nostalgia with a Saturday night of rock favorites at Johnston Town Center. Not Quite Brothers takes over The Yard from 7-10 p.m. for the latest Sounds of Summer Concert Series performance, bringing a setlist packed with rock anthems from the ’70s and ’80s. Grab your lawn chair, round up some friends and find a spot on the green space near the GrandStay Hotel for three hours of live music outdoors. Admission is free, making it a simple addition to your weekend plans whether you know every song by heart or just want to spend the evening listening to live music.
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Opening Day at Center Grove Orchard in Cambridge

Butterfly Release & Opening Weekend

Saturday, Aug. 29 – Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026 | Center Grove Orchard, Cambridge
Center Grove Orchard is kicking off its fall season and opening weekend with an extra special experience. Head into the Sunflower Meadows for the orchard’s annual Butterfly Release, where guests can gently release painted lady butterflies into their new surroundings. Choose from 11 a.m. or 4 p.m. release times on Saturday or Sunday, with each Butterfly Release ticket including one butterfly. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable way to welcome the upcoming fall season, it’s a beautiful addition to a day at the orchard. Farmyard admission is required separately, and butterfly tickets are available while supplies last.
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