Free Things to Do in Greater Des Moines: June Edition

June 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.

Backroads & Byways Tour

Friday, June 5, 2026 | Various Businesses, Warren County
If your idea of a perfect day involves wandering through charming small towns and discovering hidden gems, the Backroads & Byways Tour deserves a spot on your calendar. This self-guided shopping adventure takes you through Warren County and surrounding communities, highlighting locally owned shops filled with everything from antiques and home décor to clothing, gifts and garden finds. Part of the fun is not knowing exactly what you’ll discover next. Better yet, every participating stop can sign your tour map, giving you a chance to earn prizes along the way. Grab a friend, hit the road and make a weekend of exploring some of Iowa’s favorite small businesses.
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Sips & Songs

Friday, June 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2026 | The District at Prairie Trail, Ankeny
Few things feel more like summer than live music on a warm Friday evening, and Sips & Songs delivers exactly that. Held weekly at The District at Prairie Trail, this free event combines live music, food, drinks and plenty of space to relax and enjoy the evening. Bring a lawn chair, meet up with friends and settle in for a few hours of entertainment under the summer sky. The atmosphere is casual, family-friendly and perfect for anyone looking to ease into the weekend. With events happening every Friday throughout June and July, there are plenty of opportunities to join the fun.
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Waukee Palooza Music Festival

Saturday, June 6, 2026 | Waukee Hy-Vee West Lawn, Waukee
Waukee Palooza has all the ingredients for a great summer evening: live music, local food, cold drinks and plenty of room to spread out with friends and family. Hosted on the west lawn of the Hy-Vee, this community festival combines a relaxed outdoor concert atmosphere with activities for all ages. Kids can enjoy the Kids Zone, adults can settle into a lawn chair and everyone can enjoy performances from Burnin’ Sensations, Rhythmic Rewind Band and Pickleback throughout the evening. Plus, the event supports charitable projects through the Rotary Club of Waukee, making it easy to have fun while supporting a good cause.
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Iowa Juneteenth: Neighbors Day Celebration

Saturday, June 20, 2026 | Western Gateway Park, Des Moines
The Iowa Juneteenth Neighbors Day Celebration brings people together for a day centered on community, culture and connection. Held at Western Gateway Park, the free event features live entertainment, local vendors, food, family-friendly activities and opportunities to learn, celebrate and connect with neighbors from across the region. It’s a welcoming event that highlights community spirit while honoring the significance and history of Juneteenth.
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Sounds of Summer Series in Johnston

Saturday, June 27, 2026 | The Yard at Johnston Town Center, Johnston
The Sounds of Summer Series is back at The Yard in Johnston, bringing free live music to one of the community’s favorite outdoor gathering spaces. The season kicks off with performances from AstroYachts and Wanted, creating the perfect soundtrack for a summer evening. Bring a lawn chair, grab dinner nearby and enjoy a few hours of music with friends, family and neighbors. Located near the GrandStay Hotel & Suites, The Yard offers plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the show. Best of all, admission is completely free, making it an easy addition to your summer plans.
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Greater Des Moines Partnership

The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the largest regional business, economic development and talent development organization in Iowa and the second-largest regional chamber of commerce in the country, serving multiple counties in Greater Des Moines. Together with more than 400 Investors and an Affiliate Chamber of Commerce network of more than 7,200 Regional Chamber Members, The Partnership helps businesses grow and advances quality of life in Greater Des Moines with one voice, one mission and as one region, contributing to a vibrant regional economy.