Free Things to Do in Greater Des Moines: August Edition

August in Greater Des Moines (DSM) is packed with free ways to get out and explore. Ready to plan something fun? Here are five free events happening across DSM this month.

National Night Out

Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026 | Various Locations in DSM
There’s nothing like seeing an entire community come together on a summer evening. National Night Out in August brings neighbors, local police officers, firefighters and first responders together for free family-friendly events filled with games, music, food and activities. It’s a chance to meet the people who help keep your community safe, spend time with friends and neighbors and enjoy an evening out with the whole family. Check out a few events around the region where you can join the fun:

Find the celebration closest to you, bring a lawn chair and enjoy one of DSM’s favorite community traditions.

live racing at Prairie Meadows in Altoona

Live Horse Racing

Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays & Mondays Through Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026 | Prairie Meadows, Altoona
You don’t have to place a bet to have a great time at Prairie Meadows. Find a spot along the rail and experience the excitement as Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse races thunder around the one-mile track. The energy builds with every race, making it just as fun for first-time visitors as longtime racing fans. Grab a bite to eat, soak in the atmosphere and cheer on your favorite horse as they race toward the finish line. With free admission and races happening throughout the weekend, it’s an easy addition to your summer plans.
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Taste Buds: August Sampling Event

Thursday, Aug. 6 – Friday, Aug. 7, 2026 | Wall to Wall Wine & Spirits, West Des Moines
If you’re 21 or older and enjoy discovering new wines and craft beers, this free tasting event is worth adding to your calendar. Wall to Wall Wine & Spirits is opening the doors for two afternoons of complimentary samples poured by distributors and supplier representatives. Sip your way through a variety of wines, beers and specialty beverages while picking up inspiration for fall gatherings or your next dinner party. Stop in anytime between 4-6 p.m., sample something new and maybe even leave with your next favorite bottle.
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Adel Sweet Corn Festival

Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026 | Adel Courthouse Square, Adel
Small-town summer festivals don’t get much better than this. The Adel Sweet Corn Festival fills the historic courthouse square with vendors, live entertainment, family activities and Dallas County’s longest parade. Of course, the highlight for many is the free sweet corn, served up fresh throughout the day. Stick around into the evening for live music, including performances by Dirty Champagne and Cover That, featuring Adel’s own Jeff Abbas. Whether you’re coming for the corn, the shopping or the music, it’s the kind of community celebration that keeps people coming back year after year.
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World Food & Music Festival

Friday, Aug. 28 – Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026 | Western Gateway Park, Downtown Des Moines
No passport required for this adventure. The World Food & Music Festival returns to Downtown DSM for three days of incredible flavors, live entertainment and cultural experiences from around the globe. Wander from vendor to vendor sampling international cuisine, catch cultural music and dance performances on the main stage and explore interactive activities celebrating the diversity of the Des Moines region. Whether you’re trying something completely new or returning for your favorite dish, it’s easy to spend hours exploring everything this free festival has to offer. Bring your appetite and your sense of adventure.
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