Good Egg Days + All-School Reunion: A Father’s Day Weekend Worth the Drive to Stuart
If you’re looking for something different to do over Father’s Day weekend, this might be it.
Just 40 minutes west of Des Moines, the town of Stuart hosts Good Egg Days, an annual summer celebration built around community, tradition and a pace that feels a little easier to enjoy.
In 2026, that experience gets even stronger with the addition of an All-School Reunion, bringing together generations from across the West Central Valley district for one weekend.
Together, it creates something you don’t see every day. A hometown reunion layered into a full community festival.
And it all ties back to Stuart’s identity as the
“Home of 1,700 Good Eggs and a Few Stinkers.”
Where Did “Good Egg Days” Come From?
Good Egg Days started as a reflection of the community itself. Stuart has long been known as a place where people stay involved, support one another and take pride in where they live. The “Good Eggs and a Few Stinkers” motto became a way to recognize that character while adding a bit of personality that people remember.
The event grew from that foundation. Not as something manufactured, but as a way to celebrate what was already happening every day. Neighbors showing up, businesses supporting each other and a community that values connection.
What Makes This Weekend Different?
Greater Des Moines (DSM) has no shortage of events, but Good Egg Days offers something you don’t always get in a larger setting.
It’s walkable. It’s accessible. And it’s built around participation, not just attendance. Events take place throughout downtown Stuart and Lawbaugh City Park, with plenty of parking and everything within a short walk. Instead of navigating crowds and schedules, you’ll find:
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A parade where kids are part of it, not just watching
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Community traditions that bring people together, not just entertain them
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Local vendors you can actually talk to
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A weekend that feels connected, not crowded
It’s simple, but it’s intentional. That’s why it works.
What to Expect: June 19–20, 2026
Good Egg Days runs Friday evening through Saturday night, with activities for all ages.
Friday, June 19, 2026
- Kiddie Parade through downtown
- Little Stinker and Stinkette contest
- Citizen of the Year and Grand Marshal announcements
- Kids activities including karaoke, face painting and balloon artists
- Water fights in the street
- Baby contest
- Street dance from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Saturday, June 20, 2026
- 5K run/walk
- Parade at 11 a.m.
- Craft market and vendors in Lawbaugh Park
- Inflatables, games, and kids activities
- Live music at the gazebo
- Ag-4-All exhibits
- Additional entertainment and community events
- Street dance Saturday night with live music
The All-School Reunion: A Weekend Highlight
Adding to this year’s event is the All-School Reunion, bringing together graduates and families from across the West Central Valley district, including the communities of Stuart, Menlo, Dexter and Redfield.
This is more than a class reunion. It is a chance for multiple generations to reconnect in one place during one of the biggest weekends of the year.
Who’s Invited
- Menlo Cardinals
- Stuart Dragons
- Stuart-Menlo Cyclones (S-M)
- West Central Wildcats (WC)
- West Central Valley Wildcats (WCV)
Event Details
Date: Saturday, June 20, 2026
Time: 4 to 8 p.m.
Location: The Saints Center
Address: 320 N. Fremont St., Stuart
Food and beverage vendors will be on site, making it easy to spend the afternoon catching up with classmates, teammates, and longtime friends. For many, this will be the reason to come back. For others, it is a unique addition that makes the weekend even more worthwhile.
Why It’s Worth the Trip
- Stuart is just off I-80, about 40 minutes from Des Moines.
- Once you’re here, the experience changes.
- You park once. You walk everywhere. You run into people you know or quickly get to know. The pace slows down just enough to actually enjoy what you’re doing.
- For families, it’s easy and affordable.
- For former residents, it’s a reason to come home.
- For anyone looking for something different, it’s a break from the usual.
Make It a Father’s Day Weekend Tradition
Good Egg Days takes place every year over Father’s Day weekend, which makes it an easy addition to your plans.
Bring the family. Meet up with friends. Or come see what a small-town festival feels like when it’s done right. You don’t need a full itinerary. Just show up.
Event Details
Event: Good Egg Days
Location: Stuart, Iowa
Dates: June 19–20, 2026 (Father’s Day Weekend)
Key Locations: Downtown Stuart and Lawbaugh City Park
Bonus Event: All-School Reunion (Saturday, 4–8 p.m. at The Saints Center)
Cost: Most activities are free and family-friendly
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