DES MOINES, Iowa — Thursday, June 20 is the summer solstice, the longest day of the year and the official start of summer. While we might not have specific summer solstice celebrations on the calendar, there are still plenty of ways to get out and enjoy all the season has to offer.
Local 5 rounded up five events taking place in central Iowa this weekend to soak up the sunshine - literally or metaphorically!
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, June 21, 5:30 p.m.
- Where: Riverview Park (710 Corning Ave., Des Moines)
- Price: Free
Nothing says "summer" like an outdoor concert. This week, Punching Pandas will perform in Riverview Park for a night of free, family fun. Local 5's Stephanie Angleson and Bree Sullivan will both attend the event, so make sure you come and say hi!
- When: Saturday, June 22, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Where: Cowles Commons (221 Walnut St., Des Moines)
- Price: $40 for adults
Is this Louisiana? No, it's Iowa ... but your taste buds might think you've teleported straight to New Orleans.
A general admission ticket to this annual event will earn you an all-you-can-eat crawfish meal, as well as live music, a Cajun-inspired fashion show and activities for kids.
- When: Saturday, June 22, 4-9 p.m.
- Where: BrickHouse Fitness (86 Paine St. SE, Bondurant)
- Price: Free, donations accepted
Grab your friends for a night of good music, supporting a great cause. The lineup includes local groups such as The Pat Bump Band, Exit 185 and Plastic Apartment. When you're not rocking out, enjoy sand volleyball, an assortment of food trucks and a raffle.
Free will donations and band tips will be donated to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and other genetic disease-related causes.
- When: Sunday, June 23, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Where: Historic Valley Junction
- Price: Free to attend
Find unique trinkets, clothes and other goodies in the heart of Valley Junction. 80 vintage décor and clothing vendors, as well as handmade artists, will fill the the streets for this event.
The festival is organized by Upcycled DSM, which will be fully stocked and ready for shoppers on Sunday.
- When: Sunday, June 23, 3 p.m.
- Where: Band Shell at Wagner Park (410 W 1st St., Ankeny)
- Price: Free
If you didn't have time to commemorate Juneteenth on Wednesday, now is your chance. Join Ankeny residents at the city's fourth annual Juneteenth celebration, highlighting Black culture in Ankeny and central Iowa.
The free event will feature local performances, artists, food trucks and more.