DES MOINES, Iowa — "Summertime, and the livin's easy" ...
... but making your schedule for the weekend isn't. With so many great events happening in central Iowa, Local 5 is here to help you find the best ways to spend your free time.
Here are five events happening this weekend to help you make the most of these sunny August days.
Have an event you want featured in Local 5's Weekend Guide? Text us at 515-457-1026 or email us at news@weareiowa.com
- When: Friday, Aug. 16, 5-9 p.m.
- Where: Walker Johnston Park (9000 Douglas Ave., Urbandale)
- Price: Free
Hosted by Urbandale Parks and Recreation, this event is the perfect summer send-off for the entire family. Kids can enjoy free activities including bounce houses and laser tags.
Meanwhile, adults can check out the beer garden and food trucks including Magoo's Pizza, Charlotte's Kitchen and Flame.
- When: Friday, Aug. 16 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Aug. 17 at 7 p.m.
- Where: John Viars Theatre at the Des Moines Community Playhouse (831 42nd St., Des Moines)
- Price: $13
It may be summer, but... "Do you want to build a snowman?" This stage production of a family favorite Disney movie is part of The Penguin Project. Through the project, special needs kids and kids without disabilities work side-by-side through four months of rehearsals to eventually put on a great show. Sunday's show is already sold out, so get your tickets fast.
"By providing access to community theatre, The Penguin Project demonstrates that the special challenges of a disability should not handicap a child’s ability to participate in life’s experiences," the Des Moines Community Playhouse shares.
- When: Friday, Aug. 16 and Saturday, Aug. 17, 8 a.m. to midnight and Sunday, Aug. 18, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.
- Where: Iowa State Fairgrounds (3000 East Grand Ave., Des Moines)
- Price: $16 for adults, $10 for kids 6-11
There's only a few more days to catch "fair fever." Make the most of this iconic Iowa tradition by stopping by the fairgrounds this weekend.
Tickets are also still available for this weekend's Grandstand performances, including The Avett Brothers, NE-YO and Kidz Bop.
- When: Friday, Aug. 16 at 7 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 17 at 4:30 p.m. (followed by Game 2 of the doubleheader) and Sunday, Aug. 18 at 1 p.m.
- Where: Principal Park (1 Line Dr., Des Moines)
- Price: Tickets start at $10
Don't let summer slip away until you make your trip out to Principal Park. This weekend, the I-Cubs will face the Columbus Clippers.
As always, the park will set off fireworks after the game on Friday.
- When: Saturday, Aug. 17, 7 p.m.
- Where: It's a secret!
- Price: $25
If you're a fan of standup comedy and/or a good old-fashioned surprise, this event is for you. At Don't Tell Comedy Shows, fans go in blind: You won't know who's performing until you arrive at the secret venue!
The show will be outdoors in the Des Moines/Saylorville area. Seating will be provided, but the show is BYOB. Buy tickets ASAP to receive the location of the event at 8 a.m. on the day of the show.
