Plan Your Week in the DSM Region with These Events: Aug. 7-13

August is rolling right along, and the Greater Des Moines (DSM) region is making the most of the season with another week of festivals, live entertainment and unique experiences. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing, a nostalgic performance, a weekend treasure hunt or a chance to explore communities across the region, there’s something happening nearly every day. This week’s lineup includes outdoor movies, live music, dancing, road-trip-worthy adventures and a few experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Here are five can’t-miss things to do in DSM Aug. 7-13.

Movie in the Park: The LEGO Movie

Friday, Aug. 7, 2026 | Colby Park, Windsor Heights
Grab a blanket, pack the lawn chairs and head to Colby Park for a family movie night under the stars. This month’s featured film is The LEGO Movie, the hilarious animated adventure that’s just as entertaining for adults as it is for kids. Before the movie begins, enjoy complimentary pizza, popcorn, cookies and drinks while spending time with friends and neighbors. As the sun sets and the opening credits roll, settle in for an evening filled with laughs, imagination and one of summer’s favorite traditions: watching a movie outdoors.
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Heartland SwingOut

Friday, Aug. 7, 2026 | Valley Junction Activity Center, West Des Moines
Whether you’ve been swing dancing for years or have never tried it before, Heartland SwingOut is a welcoming place to jump in. Friday evening at the Valley Junction Activity Center begins with a beginner swing dance lesson followed by a social dance featuring live music from the Junction Jazz Society. The fun continues on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026, at The French Way Building in Des Moines with workshops for multiple skill levels, another evening of live music from NOLA Jazz Band and a mix-and-match dance competition. It’s a weekend full of music, movement and community.
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Highway 141 Garage Sales

Friday, Aug. 7 – Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026 | Various DSM Communities Along Highway 141
If you love the thrill of discovering hidden treasures, this is your weekend. The annual Highway 141 Garage Sales stretch for more than 170 miles, with DSM communities along Highway 141—including Grimes, Granger and Perry—joining the route. From antiques and collectibles to furniture, home décor, vintage finds and unexpected bargains, you never know what you’ll come across at the next stop. Grab a friend, map out your route and enjoy a road trip filled with small-town charm, great deals and plenty of opportunities to uncover your next favorite find.
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Elvis: Reflections of the King

Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026 | Grimes Community Complex, Grimes
Dust off your blue suede shoes and get ready for an evening celebrating one of music’s biggest legends. America’s Got Talent finalist Joseph Hall brings his acclaimed Elvis tribute show to Grimes, performing fan favorites that span the King’s legendary career. Recognized by Elvis Presley Enterprises as one of today’s top tribute artists, Hall captures the music, energy and charisma that made Elvis an icon. Sing along, relive the classics and maybe even catch one of the signature scarves or teddy bears tossed into the crowd during this fun, family-friendly performance.
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Bridges and Bubbles Trolley Winery Tour

Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026 | Whiskey River, Ankeny
Leave the driving to someone else and spend the day exploring some of DSM’s wineries and cideries aboard a trolley. This guided tour makes stops at Madison County Winery, Covered Bridges Winery, Winterset Cidery and Dosaage Winery, giving guests plenty of opportunities to sample local wines, cider and beautiful countryside views. Check-in begins at 10:30 a.m. at Whiskey River in Ankeny before departing at 11 a.m. Light snacks are provided at check-in, and participants must be 21 or older. It’s a relaxing way to spend a Sunday with friends while discovering local favorites.
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Summer is still going strong, and August is filled with free events happening across DSM. It’s the perfect time to get outside, explore new places and make the most of the season.

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