DES MOINES, Iowa — It's finally fall, and Des Moines is taking note this weekend.
Whether you're looking to get outside, enjoy an autumnal beverage or embrace spooky season, here are five events taking place in the Des Moines metro this weekend.
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- When: Friday, Sept. 27, 6 p.m.
- Where: Jester Park Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center (12112 NW 128th St., Granger)
- Price: $5
Enjoy the fall weather with your family at Jester Park this Friday. Kids and adults alike can try out bouldering or archery.
Families can also play games, spend time outdoors or make s'mores by the fire.
- When: Friday, Sept. 27, 3 p.m.-12 a.m. and Saturday, Sept. 28, 12 p.m.-12 a.m.
- Where: Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park (2551 George Flagg Parkway, Des Moines)
- Price: Tickets start at $30 ($20 when purchased in advance)
Prost!
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Des Moines Oktoberfest. Commemorate the occasion by donning your dirndl or lederhosen and heading to Water Works Park. While you're there, listen to live performances, dance during silent disco and, of course, fill your stein with your favorite beer.
- When: Friday, Sept. 27 and Saturday, Sept. 28 at 7:30 p.m.
- Where: Des Moines Playhouse (831 42nd St., Des Moines)
- Price: Tickets start at $36
Tickets are going fast for the closing weekend of "Jersey Boys." The musical tells the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons throughout their 40-year friendship, set to some of their most memorable songs.
Attendees will recognize tunes such as "Sherry," "Big Girls Don't Cry" and "Walk Like a Man."
- When: Friday, Sept. 27, 2 p.m.-2 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 28, 10 a.m.-2 a.m. and Sunday, Sept. 29, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
- Where: Iowa Events Center (730 3rd St., Des Moines)
- Price: Single day passes start at $40
GalaxyCon is hosting not one, but two events in Des Moines this weekend, both taking place at the Iowa Events Center. Fans of anime, animation and cosplay will find their home at ANIMATE! While you're there, meet your favorite voice actors, attend Q&As and share your fandom with others in the Cosplay Lounge.
Activities take on a spookier spin at Nightmare Weekend. The event features many of the same attractions, but this time, the festivities are focused on horror and other spooky fun.
- When: Sunday, Sept. 29, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Where: Dogpatch Urban Gardens (5085 Meredith Dr., Des Moines)
- Price: Free
Grab your favorite flannel and head over to Dogpatch Urban Gardens for their final event before they close for good. The event will feature local vendors such as Pints By Beth, Red Door Press and Oh High Cookies. After you check out the vendors, walk across 51st Street to visit the DUG FarmStand.