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DMPA Announces 2025 Free Outdoor Family Events Schedule

April 8, 2025

Des Moines Performing Arts is thrilled to share the full schedule for its 2025 Free Outdoor Family Events—returning this spring and summer to parks and public spaces across the metro. From interactive installations and circus acts to storytime and live music, this lineup brings high-quality, family-friendly programming directly to the community—all at no cost.

These events are designed to be flexible, fun, and easy to attend. Bring a chair or blanket, pack some snacks, and stop by for as little or as long as you'd like. Whether you're looking for weekend plans, a weekday adventure, or something new for the whole family, this season has something for everyone.

OPTIK
May 2–26 | Cowles Commons, Des Moines
Step into a dazzling, interactive light and sound playground. OPTIK features 20 six-foot gyroscope-like forms that become musical instruments and interactive art. Co-presented by Operation Downtown and the Greater Des Moines Partnership.
Join us for the grand opening on May 2.

Bindlestiff Family Cirkus
June 14–17 | Various Parks
Juggling, acrobatics, contortion, and vaudeville vibes. This NYC-based circus brings high-energy fun, daring feats, and circus magic to parks across the metro.

  • June 14, 10:30 AM – Cowles Commons, Des Moines

  • June 15, 10:30 AM – Walker Johnston Park, Urbandale

  • June 15, 6:30 PM – Columbus Park, Des Moines

  • June 16, 6:30 PM – City Park, Norwalk

  • June 17, 6:30 PM – Polk City Town Square

DuPont Brass
July 21–22 | Various Parks
This 10-piece “Eclectic Soul” band blends jazz, hip-hop, and R&B into one unforgettable performance.

  • July 21, 6:30 PM – Colby Park, Windsor Heights

  • July 22, 6:30 PM – Water Works Park: Killinger Family Stage, Des Moines

Storytime Under the Green Umbrella
June 11, July 9, August 13 | 10:30 AM | Cowles Commons, Des Moines
Songs, stories, and silliness for toddlers, preschoolers, and early elementary youth—led by DMPA educators.
Rain location: Nollen Lobby at the Des Moines Civic Center.

Dancing in Cowles Commons 
June 21, July 12, August 23 | 9:00 AM | Cowles Commons, Des Moines
Start your Saturday mornings with MixxedFit®, a high-energy fitness class led by Tony Zika that blends dance and bodyweight toning.

For full details and updates, click here. Save the dates, bring the kids, and join us for a season of free outdoor fun!