Your Guide to Events Happening in Greater DSM This Week: Aug. 21-27

The final full week of August is bringing plenty of reasons to get out and explore the Greater Des Moines (DSM) region. From live music in communities across the region and relaxing evenings at the farm to after-dark spectacles and time on the trails, there are all kinds of ways to make the most of the week. Whether you’re looking for an easy Friday night with friends, a family outing or a quieter way to recharge before the weekend, there are plenty of options to fill your calendar. Here are five can’t-miss things to do across the DSM region Friday, Aug. 21 – Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026.

Middlebrook Farm in Cumming

Fridays at the Farm: Luke Fox

Friday, Aug. 21, 2026 | Middlebrook Farm, Cumming
Kick off the weekend with an easygoing evening at Middlebrook Farm. Fridays at the Farm brings live music to The Farmhouse porch from 4:30-7:30 p.m., with Luke Fox providing this week’s soundtrack. Grab dinner from El Delicioso Street Tacos, Banh May Food Truck or Pie Mates, browse the local vendor market and pick up a drink from the Wine Wagen or beer tent. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and settle in, while the kids stay busy with activities like soccer and gaga ball. Best of all, this family-friendly Friday night outing is free to attend.
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Also happening in Cumming on Friday, Aug. 21, 2026, catch Tom Pevear performing live at The Merc from 6-9 p.m.

Jamie Hurd Amphitheater Friday Night Live Series in West Des Moines

Friday Night Live Concert

Friday, Aug. 21, 2026 | Jamie Hurd Amphitheater, West Des Moines
Grab your lawn chairs, blankets and favorite people for another Friday Night Live Concert at the Jamie Hurd Amphitheater. Juniper Street takes the stage from 8-10 p.m., giving you two hours of live music under the open sky. Come a little early and make a night of it with Fruits ‘N Such and Beverly Ann’s Cookies serving food and sweet treats beginning at 7 p.m. Alcohol will also be available for purchase during the event. It’s an easy way to wind down after the workweek, catch some live music and spend a Friday evening outside in DSM.
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Pella Fab Foodie Fridays

Spirit of Pella's Fab Foodie Fridays Free Music Series

Friday Aug. 21, 2026 | Klokkenspel Plaza, Pella
Friday night plans in Pella are as simple as live music, good food and a lawn chair. Fab Foodie Fridays welcomes Stone Peace Entertainment to Klokkenspel Plaza from 5-7 p.m. for a free evening of music in the heart of the community. Come hungry because Paparoni’s Italian Food Truck and Sweet Henry’s will be serving up dinner and treats, while The Cellar Peanut Pub will have an expanded beer garden. Tables and chairs will be available, but bringing a backup chair isn’t a bad idea. Gather some friends, find a spot and settle in for an easygoing Friday evening.
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Adventureland in Altoona

Drones Over Adventureland

Friday, Aug. 21 - Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026 | Adventureland, Altoona
Look up after dark at Adventureland this weekend and you’ll see more than 300 drones lighting up the sky. Drones Over Adventureland features a 20-minute synchronized performance filled with glowing designs and patriotic visuals created in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. The show begins just after 9 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday, transforming the sky above the Boulevard into one giant canvas of light. Spend the day riding coasters and exploring the park, then stick around after sunset to cap off your Adventureland visit with a high-tech nighttime show that’s a little different from your typical fireworks finale.
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Jester Park Nature Center in Granger

Restorative Hike

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 | Jester Park, Granger
Trade the noise of the week for fresh air and a little time on the trails at Jester Park. This free Restorative Hike invites adults to unplug from the usual routine, get moving and explore the natural beauty of one of Polk County’s parks alongside other hikers. The guided outing covers more than two miles from 6-7:30 p.m., traveling across uneven terrain, hills and a mix of shaded and sunny trails, so come prepared for a moderately active evening. No registration is required. Just lace up your walking shoes and enjoy some time outdoors!
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Before summer gives way to fall, take advantage of the free events happening across DSM. August is wrapping up with plenty of opportunities to get outside, explore the region and enjoy the final weeks of the season.

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