Top 5 Things to Do in DSM This Week: May 1-7

May is just getting started across the Greater Des Moines (DSM) region, and it’s already bringing plenty of reasons to get out and explore. This week leans into everything we love about this time of year — colorful festivals, outdoor events and those first few chances to settle into a weekend routine again. You can take a short trip to experience a long-standing local tradition, spend the day outside with family-friendly activities or find your way to live music, food and community celebrations. It’s also the time when farmers’ markets begin popping up across the region, making it easy to plan a morning around fresh finds and local flavor.

If you’re looking for a few ideas to kick off the month, here are five can’t-miss events happening across DSM May 1-7.

Kites on the Green

Saturday, May 2, 2026 | Johnston Commons Park, Johnston
Kites on the Green is one of those easy, all-day events that works for just about everyone. Head to Johnston Commons Park and you’ll find giant kites in the sky, hands-on activities and plenty to keep kids (and adults) entertained. You can build your own kite, watch live demonstrations, catch a magic show or just grab something from a food truck and hang out. There’s even a candy drop, which is always a hit. It’s free, family-friendly and the kind of event where you can stay as long or as little as you want and still feel like you made the most of it.
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You might also be interested in the Middle River Arts Festival also taking place on Saturday, May 2 in nearby Winterset.

Derby Day Kicks Off Live Racing at Prairie Meadows

Celebrate Derby Day + Kick-off Live Racing Season

Saturday, May 2, 2026 | Prairie Meadows, Altoona
If you’re looking for something a little different, Derby Day at Prairie Meadows brings a fun mix of tradition and energy. Think hats, bow ties, live racing and all the excitement of watching the Kentucky Derby with a crowd. There are contests, themed dining options and plenty of spots to settle in and take it all in. Whether you’re there for the fashion, the racing or just the atmosphere, it’s an easy way to turn a Saturday afternoon into something a little more memorable.
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musicians play on stage at Music in the Junction

Cinco de Mayo in Historic Valley Junction

Cinco de Mayo at Music in the Junction

Thursday, May 7, 2026 | Historic Valley Junction, West Des Moines
Live music season is back, and Historic Valley Junction is kicking things off with a Cinco de Mayo celebration during Music in the Junction. Expect a lively evening with music, local flavor and that relaxed, walkable atmosphere that makes this area so easy to enjoy. It’s the kind of event where you can wander between shops, grab a bite and settle in to listen for a while. Whether you stay for a set or make a full night of it, it’s a great way to ease into warmer evenings and outdoor events again.
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Save the date for later this month: You might also be interested in Historic Valley Junction’s Arts Festival coming up on Sunday, May 17.

2026 Tulip Time Festival

Tulip Time Festival

Thursday, May 7 – Saturday, May 9, 2026 | Downtown Pella, Pella
If you’ve never been to Tulip Time Festival, this is your sign to go. For a few days each spring, Pella completely transforms with rows of colorful tulips, traditional Dutch attire, parades and food that feels straight out of a postcard. It’s one of those events where you can wander all day, watch performances, grab something sweet, take photos and just soak in the atmosphere. Thousands of people show up for a reason — and once you go, you’ll get it. It’s equal parts tradition, celebration and a seriously fun way to spend a day outside.
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Downtown Farmers' Market Opening Day is here!

Farmers’ Markets

Various Dates & Locations in Greater DSM
Farmers’ market season is officially back, and honestly, there’s no better way to spend a morning (or evening) this time of year. Across Greater DSM, markets are popping up with fresh produce, baked goods, flowers and handmade items, all paired with that easy, community feel. Whether you stick close to home or plan a quick road trip to check out a new one, it’s a simple way to slow down and enjoy the season.

Markets happening across the region this week include:

Saturday, May 2: Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market
Saturday, May 2: Indianola Downtown Farmers Market
Saturday, May 2: Cartwright Downtown Farmers’ Market in Marshalltown
Tuesday, May 5: Norwalk Farmers’ Market
Wednesday, May 6: Bondurant Farmers' Market

Whether you’re sticking with your neighborhood favorite or exploring a new one, it’s a great way to stock up on fresh finds and soak up the season across Greater DSM.

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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.