What's Happening Around DSM This Week: July 24-30

Summer fun continues across the Greater Des Moines (DSM) region with another week full of festivals, live music and family-friendly events. Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip, looking for a new community celebration or hoping to spend more time outdoors before summer winds down, this week’s lineup has plenty to explore. From hometown traditions and outdoor concerts to interactive nature experiences and one the region’s biggest music festivals, communities across DSM are making the most of the season. Here are five can’t-miss things to do across DSM July 24-30.

Pollinator Palooza

Friday, July 24, 2026 | Brenton Arboretum, Dallas Center
Celebrate some of nature’s hardest workers at Pollinator Palooza. This free event at The Brenton Arboretum combines hands-on activities, educational demonstrations and opportunities to learn about the bees, butterflies and other pollinators that help gardens and ecosystems thrive. Local organizations will be on hand with interactive exhibits, while Snappy’s BBQ and Baan Vaan Ice Cream offer tasty reasons to stick around. Whether you’re bringing curious kids or simply love spending time outdoors, it’s a fun way to learn something new while enjoying one of the region’s beautiful green spaces.
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Summer Fest

Friday, July 24 – Saturday, July 25, 2026 | Copper Creek Lake Park, Pleasant Hill
Pleasant Hill’s biggest summer celebration is back with two days of community fun for all ages. Friday night kicks things off with a live concert by Suede, food vendors and a fireworks display at Copper Creek Lake Park. On Saturday, keep the fun going with the Summer Fest Parade, a classic car show, family-friendly activities, inflatables and plenty of opportunities to enjoy time with friends and neighbors. Whether you’re spreading out a blanket for the concert or exploring the festivities, Summer Fest is a great way to celebrate summer in Pleasant Hill.
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Sounds of Summer Concert Series

Saturday, July 25, 2026 | The Yard at Johnston Town Center, Johnston
Grab a lawn chair, meet up with friends and enjoy a summer evening filled with live music at The Yard in Johnston. This free outdoor concert features The Trip performing from 7-10 p.m., making it an easy addition to your Saturday plans. Arrive early to grab dinner from one of the nearby restaurants or stroll through Johnston Town Center before the music begins. The Sounds of Summer Concert Series continues later this season with Not Quite Brothers in August and The Pork Tornadoes in October.
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Rainbow Safari by Capital City Pride

Thursday, July 30, 2026 | Blank Park Zoo, Des Moines
Experience Blank Park Zoo in a whole new way during Rainbow Safari, an after-hours celebration hosted by Capital City Pride for the LGBTQ+ community, allies and their families. Wander through the zoo’s animal exhibits, enjoy complimentary rides on the Zoo Train and Carousel, and gather for a classic backyard-style cookout, all included with admission. With affordable ticket prices and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a fun evening for all ages and a unique opportunity to explore the zoo after regular hours while celebrating community and inclusion.
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Hinterland Music Festival

Thursday, July 30 – Sunday, Aug. 2, 2026 | St. Charles
If you’ve been counting down the days until Hinterland, the wait is almost over. Thousands of music fans will head to St. Charles for one of Iowa’s biggest summer festivals, featuring an impressive lineup that includes Lorde, Mumford & Sons, Kali Uchis, KATSEYE and more. Between sets, explore local vendors at HinterMarket, grab a bite from a variety of food options or relax with friends before the next performance. Whether you’re camping for the weekend or making a day trip, Hinterland is an experience that goes far beyond the music.
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Also worth checking out: The AAU Junior Olympic Games take place Monday, July 27 – Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026, with events happening at venues across the Des Moines region, including the Wellmark YMCA, Drake Stadium, Mediacom Stadium and the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex.

There’s still plenty of summer left to enjoy, and DSM is filled with free events to help you make the most of July.

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