Top 5 Can't-Miss Events in Greater Des Moines: June 5-11

June is settling in across the Greater Des Moines (DSM) region, bringing plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the season. This week’s lineup includes cultural festivals, community traditions, live music, local food and outdoor learning experiences. Whether you’re looking for an evening spent with friends, a chance to try something new or a reason to explore a different corner of the region, the week ahead offers plenty of reasons to get out and explore. You can sample authentic Greek cuisine, discover a new favorite food truck, enjoy a lakeside concert or pick up a few gardening tips along the way. Here are five can’t-miss events happening across DSM during June 5-11.

Greek Food Fair

Friday, June 5 – Sunday, June 7, 2026 | Greek Orthodox Church of St. George, Des Moines
The Greek Food Fair is back for another year, and if you’ve never gone, come hungry. Hosted at the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George, this longtime DSM tradition is packed with authentic Greek food, music, dancing and plenty of community spirit. It’s the kind of event where you show up planning to grab one thing and somehow leave with a full plate of favorites and a few desserts for later. Between the food, cultural performances and lively atmosphere, it’s easy to spend a few hours here. Opa, indeed.
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Indianola Food Truck Festival

Friday, June 5, 2026 | Main Street District, Indianola
If your ideal Friday night revolves around deciding what to eat and then immediately changing your mind three times because everything looks good, the Indianola Food Truck Festival has you covered. Indianola’s Main Street District will be filled with food trucks serving everything from savory favorites to sweet treats, making it easy to build your own progressive dinner as you wander. Pair your food with a locally crafted beverage, enjoy the downtown atmosphere and settle in for an evening of good food and community. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or just hungry, this event delivers plenty of options.
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Looking for another family-friendly activity in Indianola? Check out Kids Fish Day at Annett Nature Center on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

Chill on the Hill Concert Series

Friday, June 5, 2026 | Copper Creek Lake Park, Pleasant Hill
Summer concert season is officially underway, and Chill on the Hill is bringing the party back to Copper Creek Lake Park in Pleasant Hill. This week features After Shock, a band known for high-energy performances and crowd-favorite songs that are easy to sing along to. Grab a drink, find a spot with friends and enjoy an evening outdoors overlooking the lake. With food available onsite and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a great way to kick off the weekend. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself staying for one more song…and then another.
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Farmers’ Markets

Various Dates & Locations in DSM
Farmers’ market season is in full swing across DSM, and there are plenty of opportunities to browse local goods this week. From seasonal fruits and vegetables to fresh flowers, baked treats and handmade products, every market offers its own unique mix of vendors and small-business favorites. It’s a great excuse to spend some time outdoors, catch up with friends and support local along the way. Markets happening this week include:

Saturday, June 6: Panora Farmers' Market (Guthrie County)
Saturday, June 6: Carlisle Farmers' Market
Sunday, June 7: Milo Farmers' Market
Sunday, June 7: Southside Sunday Market (Des Moines)

From fresh produce to handcrafted goods, there’s plenty to discover at markets across the region.

Polk County Master Gardener Summer Lecture Series

Thursday, June 11, 2026 | Demonstration Garden, Urbandale
Gardeners, plant lovers and anyone who enjoys making their yard look a little better will appreciate this stop on the Polk County Master Gardener Summer Lecture Series. Hosted at the Demonstration Garden in Urbandale, this week’s session focuses on creating seasonal interest throughout the year. Led by Dustin Reese of Ted Lare Garden Center, the discussion will cover everything from bloom times and foliage to plant selections that keep gardens looking great even during the colder months. It’s practical, informative and a great excuse to spend an evening surrounded by beautiful gardens.
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Summer is underway in DSM, and there are plenty of free ways to get out and enjoy June.

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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.