Fall weather is a welcome respite from the oppressive and blazing heat of summer. But just because summer days have come and gone, it doesn’t mean the party is over. The metro area offers many fun events and activities in the coming months.
“Rent” plays at the Des Moines Civic Center on Nov. 25-27. Photo submitted.
We’ve compiled a list of as many activities, shows, events, movies and anything else we can think of to make sure your fall is as good as your summer was. Don’t let the “back to school” season get you down — there’s always fun to be had and art to experience in the Greater Des Moines Metropolitan Area.
THEATER
Des Moines boasts a large number of quality stages for a city of its size, and top-notch shows are on the itinerary all around town. These classics include musicals such as “West Side Story” and “Once,” along with dramas like “Death of a Salesman” and “Ugly Lies the Bone,” and even well-known comedies “Hand to God” and “Calendar Girls.” With options like these, you’re bound to find something that will dazzle you with an amazing evening to remember.
Des Moines Community Playhouse
831 42nd St., www.dmplayhouse.com
Oct. 7-30 — “West Side Story” (Main Stage)
Sept. 8-11 — “Rave On!” (Main Stage)
Nov. 4-20 — “The Boxcar Children” (Children’s Theater)
Dec. 2-18 — “Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka” (Main Stage)
Des Moines Performing Arts: Civic Center, Stoner Theater, Temple Theater, Cowles Commons
221 Walnut St., www.desmoinesperformingarts.org
Sept. 9 — Jerry Seinfeld Sept. 9 (Des Moines Civic Center)
Sept. 22 — “The Quebe Sisters” (The Temple Theater)
Sept. 24-25 — “Masterworks 1: Beethoven’s Ode to Joy!” (Des Moines Civic Center)
Oct. 1 — “Celtic Thunder Legacy Tour” (Des Moines Civic Center)
Oct. 12 — “Las Migas” (The Temple Theater)
Oct. 14-15 — “Jason Robert Brown” – Broadway Cabaret Concert (The Temple Theater)
Oct. 29 — “The Hot Sardines” (The Temple Theater)
Oct. 29-30 — “Masterworks 2: A German Rhapsody” (Des Moines Civic Center)
Nov. 5 — “Warner Bros. Presents Bugs Bunny at the II” (Des Moines Civic Center)
Nov. 12 — John Prine (Des Moines Civic Center)
Nov. 15 – Jan. 7 — “Triple Espresso” (The Temple Theater)
Nov. 19-20 — “Masterworks 3: Romeo & Rach 2” (Des Moines Civic Center)
Nov. 25-27 — “Rent” (Des Moines Civic Center)
The Iowa Shakespeare Experience will be presenting “Dracula: Diaries of the Undead” from Oct. 20-22. (Photo submitted)
Repertory Theater of Iowa — Des Moines Onstage Building
2124 Grand Ave., www.rtiowa.com
Sept. 23 — Oct. 2 — “Death of a Salesman” (Des Moines Social Club’s Kum & Go Theater)
Dec. 9-22 — “A Christmas Carol” (Des Moines Social Club’s Kum & Go Theater)
StageWest Theater Company
www.stagewestiowa.com
Sept. 9-18 — “Hand to God” by Robert Askins (Des Moines Social Club’s Kum & Go Theater)
Nov. 11-20 — “Ugly Lies the Bone” by Lindsey Ferrentino (Des Moines Social Club’s Kum & Go Theater)
Tall Grass Theater Company – Rex Mathis Auditorium
1401 Vine St., www.tallgrasstheater.org
October – November — “Calendar Girls” by Tim Firth
January – February — “Oleanna” by David Mamet
Ballet Des Moines
www.balletdesmoines.org
Oct. 1 — Ballet At The Barn Fundraising Event (The Bluffs Barn, Van Meter)
Oct. 28-30 — “A Triple Bill” (Hoyt Sherman Place)
Dec. 8-11 — “The Nutcracker” (Hoyt Sherman Place)
Drake University Theatre Arts
www.drake.edu/theatre
Oct. 6-9 — “Doubt” (Harmon Fine Arts Center)
Oct. 28-30 — “Finding Yellow in Orange” (Harmon Fine Arts Center)
Oct. 28-30 — “One Hundred Acres” (Harmon Fine Arts Center)
Oct. 28-30 — “16mm Shrine” (Harmon Fine Arts Center)
Nov. 17-20 — “Heathers” (Harmon Fine Arts Center)
Simpson College Theater
www.simpson.edu/theatre
Oct. 27-30 — “These Shining Lives” (Barnum Studio Theatre)
Nov. 18-21 — “The Comedy of Errors” (Pote Theatre)
Iowa State Center: Stephens Auditorium, Fisher Theater, Scheman Building
www.center.iastate.edu/events
Oct. 10 — “Once” (Stephens Auditorium)
Oct. 14 — Gordon Lightfoot (Stephens Auditorium)
Oct. 18 — “Capitol Steps” (Stephens Auditorium)
Oct. 19 — “Peppa Pig” (Stephens Auditorium)
Oct. 25 — Havana Cuba All-Stars (Stephens Auditorium)
Nov. 5 — “Under the Streetlamp” (Stephens Auditorium)
Dec. 1 — “Cirque Dreams Holidaze” (Stephens Auditorium)
Iowa State University Theater
www.theatre.iastste.edu
Sep. 30 — Oct. 9 “Mr. Burns, a Post-Electric Play” (2140 Pearson Hall)
Nov. 4-13 — “Cabaret” (2140 Pearson Hall)
Dec. 2-4, 9-11 — “The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail” (2140 Pearson Hall)
Ames Community Theater
120 Abraham Drive, www.actorsinc.org
Sept. 16-25 — “[Title of Show]” by Music and Lyrics by Jeff Bowen Book by Hunter Bell
Nov. 17-19, 25-27 — “November” By David Mamet
Union Street Players
712 Union St., Suite 202
www.unionstreetplayers.com
Dec. 2-10 — “The Christmas Post” directed by Wendy Vander Well
Ankeny Community Theater
1932 S.W. Third St.
www.ankenycommunitytheatre.com
Aug. 5-21 — “The Trouble With Cats” by Gary Ray Stapp
Sept. 10-11 — “110 Stories” by Sara Tuft
Oct. 7-23 — “Done to Death” by Fred Carmichael
Dec. 2-18 — “The Very Merry Xmas Carol Holiday Adventure” Show by Justin Jain, Dave Johnson, Brian McCann, Tim Sawicki and Bradley Wrenn
Boone Community Theater
106 S. Webster St.
www.boonecommunitytheatre.org
Sept. 17-24 — “The Fox on the Fairway” by Ken Ludwig
Dec. 2-10 — “Narnia: the Musical” based on C.S. Lewis’ “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” Book by Jules Tasca. Music by Thomas Tierney. Lyrics by Ted Drachman.
Iowa Shakespeare Experience
Iowa Governor’s Mansion, Terrace Hill
www.iowashakespeare.org
Oct. 20-22 — “Dracula: Diaries of the Undead”
Classes at Des Moines Social Club
900 Mulberry St., www.desmoinessocialclub.org
The Pursuit of Flexibility. (August Flexibility Challenge) with Iowa Fly Girl. Every day by appointment. $20.
Adult Dance HIIT-Hop. Mondays, Aug. 1 – Sept. 19, 7-8:30 p.m. Instructed by Stephanie Mott. $15 single session, $80 eight-week session.
Organic Lip Balm and Salve. Tuesday, Aug. 2, 6-8 p.m. Instructed by Samantha Thomas. $25 single session.
Beyond Waist Hooping: Learning Planes with Poi. Tuesday, Aug. 2, 7-8:30 p.m. $5 at the door.
Garden to Table Cooking for Teens. Wednesdays, Aug. 3-17, 9 a.m. – noon. $40 single session, $110 all sessions.
Beginning American Tribal Style Belly Dance. Wednesdays until Aug. 24, 6-7:15 p.m. Instructed by Dawn Grey. $15 single session, $80 full session.
Advanced American Tribal Style Belly Dance. Wednesday until Aug 24, 7:15-8:30 p.m. Instructed by Dawn Grew. $15 single session, $80 full session.
Break Dancing for Kids Level 1. Thursdays until Aug. 25, 5:45-6:45 p.m. Instructed by Anthony San. $15 single session, $80 full session.
Break Dancing for Kids Level 2. Thursdays until Aug. 25, 7-8 p.m. Instructed by Anthony San. $15 single session, $80 full session.
Homemade Salsa & Spice Relish. Tuesday, Aug. 16, 6-8 p.m. Instructed by Sam Thomas. $40 single session.
Flexibility Intensive with Iowa Fly Girl. Thursday, Aug. 31, 6-8 p.m. $30 single session.
DMSC Writers’ Workshop. Thursdays, Sept. 1 – Oct. 6., 6-7:30 p.m. Instructed by Travis Scott. $70 new session.
Inspired by Beyonce Adult Dance Workshop. Saturday, Sept. 24, 7-8:30 p.m. $20 single session.
Foundations of Hooping. Ongoing, Saturdays, noon to 1 p.m. $5 drop-in.
Figure Drawing. First and third Sundays of every month, ongoing, 2-3:30 p.m. Instructed by Don Walth. $10 drop-in.
Social Club Song Shop. Third Monday of every month, ongoing, 7-10 p.m. Instructed by Kelli Rae Powell. Free.
Sunday Circus Jam. Every Sunday, ongoing, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Free. n
The Thrill Of Broadway
“Broadway shows” are live performances — mostly musicals — that are worthy of the theater’s biggest stage. Life is good in Des Moines, but it’s best when Broadway also shows up. And when it does, make certain you grab your chance to see the show while it is here.
Nov. 25-27 — “Rent” Des Moines Civic Center. The Des Moines Performing Arts is bringing one of the stage’s biggest Broadway hits to Des Moines for its 2016-2017 season with, “Rent.” This musical is the story of seven struggling artists who are dealing with the various difficulties in the day-to-day physical world while trying not to lose who they are in the artistic realm — all while they’re dying of AIDs.
Dec. 6-11 — “Beautiful – The Carole King Musical” Des Moines Civic Center. This is an inspiring true story about Carole King’s ascension to fame and how she became one of the biggest solo acts in American history.
OUTDOORS
The dog days of summer and sitting near the cabana are nearly over. But the clean, crisp autumn air makes fall’s outdoor events and activities refreshing and fun. With the cooler weather comes the opportunity to enjoy a brisk walk, a wagon ride, a farmers market or a sporting event.
IT’S SHOWTIME
Exhibitions, shows and contests
Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 10-11 — Rustique Ranch Flea and Vintage Marketplace. If you like unique bargains, The Flea and Vintage Market is the place to be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday Sept. 10 and from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 11. It’s a thrifter’s delight for antique shopping and bargain hunting. Located at the Warren County Fairgrounds in Indianola, visit www.rustiquemarketplace.com for more information.
Saturday, Sept. 24 — Head of the Des Moines Regatta. The Des Moines Rowing Club is hosting its annual 2.87-mile race spanning from the Botanical Center near downtown Des Moines to Prospect Park. The rowing event attracts enthusiasts from across the nation. The event runs from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Find more information at www.headofthedesmoines.org.
BE A GIVER
Fundraising and charity events
Sunday, Aug. 27 — Fifth Annual Pedal for the House Bike Ride. This annual fundraiser offers the opportunity to ride your bike and benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Iowa Inc. The event starts at Flat Tire Lounge 304 S. Madison St. Madrid, Iowa, and heads east along High Trestle Trail for 26 miles to Nite Hawk Bar & Grill in Slater. Registration is $30 in advance and $35 the day of the event. This is a family-friendly event, and one child (12 and younger) is included with each adult. Additional child registrations are $10. Find more information and register at www.rmhdesmoines.org/fundraiser/pedal-for-rmh.
Saturday, Oct. 29 — 2016 Komen Iowa Race for the Cure. The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Series is an education and fundraising event for breast cancer. The event features various categories of races with varying levels of physical difficulty. The race is located at the State of Iowa Capitol Grounds. For more information visit www.komeniowa.org.
Saturday, Oct. 22 — Reggie’s Sleepout 2016 at Drake Stadium. Reggie’s Sleepout is an event designed to raise money and awareness in order to help address the problem of youth homelessness in central Iowa. Bring a box or a pup tent without any stake, or just a sleeping bag and sleep outdoors to see what it’s like to be homeless. Fun activities, music, games and the Boxed-In Design Contest will all add to the fun of the event. The event is hosted by Drake University at the Drake Stadium on 27th and Forest in Des Moines. Registration is from 3-7 p.m., and the sleep-out is from 3 p.m. to 7 a.m. with activities between 3 p.m. to 1 a.m. All proceeds benefit Iowa Homeless Youth Centers. Find out more information at www.reggiessleepout.org.
FAMILY FUN
Fair and festival celebrations
Aug. 26-27 — Dallas Center’s Annual Fall Festival. The festival’s theme this year is #BestDayEver, and it may well be. The day is slated to have many new sites to see and activities to try. Pets will also now be included in the parade. Plus there is a volleyball game, a bags tournament, fireworks and a lot more. You can see the rest of the schedule at www.dallascentercelebrations.com/fall-festival.html.
Through Aug. 31 — Yoga at the Plaza, Brenton Skating Plaza. Enjoy yoga over your lunch hour every Wednesday in August from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Find out more at www.brentonplaza.com/events/yoga-at-the-plaza-2014-07-02.
Through Aug. 31 — Yoga at the Garden, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. Unwind and renew yourself, you deserve it. The Botanical Center offers this fitness event every Wednesday at the yoga garden from 6-8 p.m. in July and August. Learn more at www.dmbotanicalgarden.com.
Sept. 8-11 — Pufferbilly Days. Boone is once again hosting its annual Pufferbilly Days celebration this fall. As always, the schedule is loaded with fun things to do. Pufferbilly Days is in downtown Boone. You can find out more at www.booneiowa.us/en/chamber_of_commerce/pufferbilly_days.
Sept. 9 — Thunder Nites in Newton. The season’s final bike night is scheduled for 6-10 p.m. Visitors can observe, gawk, envy and drool over all of the cool rides and enjoy the food while listening to live music in downtown Newton at the Square. You can find a schedule of events and more information at www.facebook.com/Newtonbikenights.
Sept. 3, 10, 17, 24 and Oct. 1, 15 — Harvest Wagon Ride. Bring a blanket and head to Living History Farms’ horse-pulled wagon ride. This is an event designed to give the whole family a fun time. Crisp and fresh fall outdoor air makes an evening ride in the country quite a delight. Refreshments will be available following the rides. Ride times are at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. You can find more information by visiting www.lhf.org/en/programs__events/harvest_wagon_rides.
Sept. 3-5, 10-11, 17-18 — Sleepy Hollow. Renaissance Faire. Explore Sleepy Hollow and experience a traditional renaissance festival with food, ale, jousting, shopping and more. Sept. 3-5 celebrates gallant knights and royals, Sept. 10-11 is for the highlanders and lucky lasses, and Sept. 17-18 is for pirates and wenches. Located at 4051 Dean Ave., Des Moines.
Sept. 16-18 — World Food & Music Festival. Downtown Des Moines comes alive for this event that features cuisine from around the world and live entertainment along with cooking demonstrations and… did anyone mention the food? You can find more information by visiting www.worldfoodandmusicfestival.org/food.
Sept. 16-17 — Beaverdale Fall Festival. Beaverdale puts on a top notch parade and festival with an assortment of food and shopping. You can find more details at www.fallfestival.org/page-not-ready.asp.
Sept. 23-24 — Des Moines’ Annual Oktoberfest. Tickets available online or at Hy-Vee stores after Aug. 25. The admission is $10 a night, or $5 on Saturday if you bring back your commemorative beer mug. You can find out more information at www.oktoberfestdsm.com/index.html.
Sept. 24-25 — Latino Heritage Festival. This annual event celebrates Latino culture with food, music, dancing and fun. It is held at Western Gateway in downtown Des Moines. Entrance is $5 for adults and $1 for children 12 and younger. You can find out more information at www.latinoheritagefestival.org.
Through Sept. 29 — Thursday Nights in the Garden. Treat yourself to an evening at the Botanical Garden this summer. The gardens are open until 8 p.m. on Thursday nights, and the Trellis Café hosts a happy hour from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Drinks, small plates and appetizers help make any evening superb. Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens, 5-8 p.m. Event includes Bocce ball and croquet. Find out more information at www.dmbotanicalgarden.com.
Sept. 22 — Zooktoberfest. The brains at Blank Park Zoo have done it again, combining Zoo Brew with Oktoberfest to concoct a unique celebration geared for people ages 21 and older. The event will take place from 5:30-8 p.m. and features live music, seasonal beers, German food, pretzel necklaces and your favorite animals. In other words, this is fun. You can find more information at www.blankparkzoo.com/en/events.
Sept. 24 — Applefest. Do you like apples? You’re going to love these apples. Apples have been a part of the American experience since the start, and Living History Farms is fixing to celebrate. Tour the farm sites in the morning, then try your hand at stirring a copper kettle of apple butter. Games and crafting will be available for kids throughout the day, and fresh from the tree local apples and apple products will be on sale in the visitor center. The fun begins at 11 a.m. Visit www.lhf.org for more information.
Oct. 8 — Corn Harvest. This is Iowa, which means corn. And a lot of it. Living History Farms allows you to see firsthand how corn was picked in the old days. You will also be able to ride a horse and wagon to view demonstrations of corn-picking machinery of yesteryear. Visitors will be able to see a traditional farmhand’s dinner, or even try a turn at the corn sheller crank. As always, demonstrations are weather and crop dependent. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can find more information at www.lhf.org/index.cfm/30925/66291/corn_harvest.
Oct. 20-30, 22-25 — Night Eyes. Night Eyes is now in its 26th year, and it’s one of the top Halloween celebrations in central Iowa. Come on out and witness the many magical characters, or ride the train and gather up all the sweet treats you can muster. The Night Eyes event runs from 1 p.m. until 8 p.m. You can find more information at www.blankparkzoo.com/en/events.
Oct. 20-23, 27-30 — Family Halloween. Bring the entire family to Living History Farms for this “non-scary” – but still fun – Halloween event. You will be able to ride a horse-drawn wagon, go pumpkin bowling, hear storytellers or see displays of scarecrows and jack-o-lanterns. The event is designed for anyone to enjoy. Activities run from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. each night. Children ages 12 and younger are allowed to trick-or-treat their way through town, and free refreshments will be made available. Advance ticket prices are $6.25 per person or $4.75 if you are a Living History Farm member; prices are 50 cents extra on the day of the event. More information is available at www.lhf.org/index.cfm/30925/66294/family_halloween.
November — Brenton Skating Plaza reopens. It’s time to sharpen your “blades of steel” and get out to the public ice skating rink. The rink’s season starts in November. Visit www.brentonplaza.com/public-skate for more information.
FANTASTIC FOODIES
Food and drink events
Aug. 13 — Adel Sweet Corn Festival. More than seven tons of sweet corn are slated to be cooked and subsequently devoured at this event. It also includes a 5K run, a parade, vendors and free music and entertainment. Visit www.facebook.com/adelsweetcornfestival.
Sept. 30 — Cityview’s Martini Fest. Whether they are shaken or stirred, central Iowans love their martinis. This fun event will be at West Glen Town Center from 5-9 p.m. Sample a variety of martinis from some of the metro’s most popular bars. Must be 21 years of age or older. Get all the details and buy your tickets for only $20 at martinifest.dmcityview.com.
Sept. 23-24— Des Moines Oktoberfest 2016. “Herzlich willkommen” means “welcome” in German. Everyone is welcome and everyone is German at the 13th annual Oktoberfest. The event will be held in the heart of the Historic Court District at the Hofbrau Rooftop Bier Garden, Craft Beer Village and the Lederhosen Lounge. General admission tickets are $10 at the door, or you can buy your tickets online now or at any Des Moines area Hy-Vee after Aug. 25. The event will take place rain or shine as there are many tented bier gardens. Visit www.oktoberfestdsm.com.
GAME ON
Spectator sports
Iowa Cubs – Principal Park, www.IowaCubs.com
Root, root, root for the Cubbies! Friday night games end with fireworks. Tickets are available for purchase at www.iowacubs.com or at the door. Home games are listed below.
Aug. 20 — vs. Memphis Redbirds. 7:08 p.m.
Aug. 21 — vs. Memphis Redbirds. 1:08 p.m.
Aug. 22 — vs. Memphis Redbirds. 6:38 p.m.
Aug. 23 — vs. Memphis Redbirds. 12:08 p.m.
Aug. 25 — vs. Omaha Storm Chasers. 6:38 p.m.
Aug. 26 — vs. Omaha Storm Chasers. 7:08 p.m.
Aug. 27 — vs. Omaha Storm Chasers. 7:08 p.m.
Aug. 28 — vs. Omaha Storm Chasers. 1:08 p.m.
Sept. 2 — vs. Colorado Springs Sky Sox. 7:08 p.m.
Sept. 3 — vs. Colorado Springs Sky Sox. 7:08 p.m.
Sept. 4 — vs. Colorado Springs Sky Sox. 1:08 p.m.
Sept. 5 — vs. Colorado Springs Sky Sox. 12:08 p.m.
Iowa Wild
The Iowa Wild’s complete 2016-2017 schedule will be released in August. As of press time, the dates of the following contests are slated to be played at Wells Fargo Arena. Tickets can be purchased online at www.iowawild.com or www.iowaeventscenter.com.
Guaranteed home dates
Friday, Oct. 14
Friday, Nov. 11
Saturday, Nov. 12
Des Moines Buccaneers
Let’s go Bucs! This local Junior A United States Hockey League team is a long time Des Moines staple. The Bucs schedule isn’t available as of press time, but you can see all the home games at the Buccaneer Arena, 7201 Hickman Road, Urbandale. Season tickets are available online at www.bucshockey.com.
Football
Drake University
All home games will be played at Drake Stadium at 2719 Forest Ave. in Des Moines. Visit www.godrakebulldogs.com.
Sept. 3 — vs. Quincy University. 6 p.m.
Sept. 17 — vs. McKendree University. 1 p.m.
Sept. 24 — vs. Morehead State University. 1 p.m. (Homecoming) Oct. 15 — vs. University of San Diego. 12:30 p.m.
Oct. 29 — vs. Campbell University. 1 p.m.
Nov. 12 — vs. Butler University. 1 p.m.
Grand View University
All home games will be played at Williams Stadium at 1591 E. University Ave. in Des Moines. Visit www.gvvikings.com.
Sept. 3 — vs. Central Methodist University. Noon. Sept. 17 — vs. Avila University. Noon.
Oct. 1 — vs. MidAmerica Nazarene University. 11 a.m. (Homecoming)
Oct. 15 — vs. Graceland University. Noon.
Nov. 5 — vs. Benedictine College. Noon.
Nov. 12 — vs. William Penn University. Noon.
Simpson College
All home games will be held at Bill Buxton Stadium at 605 N. C St., Indianola. Find more info at www.simpsonathletics.com.
Oct. 8 — vs. Luther. 1 p.m. (Homecoming)
Oct. 22 —vs. Loras. 1 p.m.
Oct. 29 — vs. Neb. Wesleyan. 1 p.m.
Nov. 12 — vs. Coe. 1 p.m.
The Iowa State Cyclones have a new head coach this year. Matt Campbell will lead the team at Jack Trice Stadium and on the road. (Photo by Iowa State Athletics)
Iowa State University
Home games will take place at Jack Trice Stadium at 1800 S. Fourth St., Ames. Find tickets and more information at www.cyclones.com.
Sept. 3 — vs. Northern Iowa. 7 p.m.
Sept. 24 — vs. San Jose State. 11 a.m.
Oct. 1 — vs. Baylor. TBA.
Oct. 29 — vs. Kansas State. TBA. (Homecoming)
Nov. 3 — vs. Oklahoma. 6:30 p.m.
Nov. 19 — vs. Texas Tech. TBA.
Nov. 26 — vs. West Virginia. TBA.
University of Iowa
Home games will be played at Kinnick Stadium at 825 Stadium Drive, Iowa City. Visit www.hawkeyesports.com for more information.
Sept. 3 — vs. Miami (Ohio) 2:30 p.m.
Sept. 10 — vs. Iowa State, 6:30 p.m.
Sept. 17 — vs. North Dakota State. 11 a.m.
Oct. 1 — vs. Northwestern. 11 a.m.
Oct. 22 — vs. Wisconsin. TBA.
Nov. 12 — vs. Michigan. 7 p.m.
Nov. 25 — vs. Nebraska. TBA.
University of Northern Iowa
All home games will be played at the UNI-Dome, 2501 Hudson Road, Cedar Falls. Visit www.unipanthers.com for more information.
Sept. 10 — vs. Montana. 4 p.m.
Oct. 1 — vs. Southern Illinois. 4 p.m. (Homecoming)
Oct. 22 — vs. Missouri State. 1 p.m.
Oct. 29 — vs. North Dakota State. 6 p.m.
Nov. 19 — vs. South Dakota State. 4 p.m.
Other sports
Sept. 2-4 — Des Moines Triathlon. Activities begin on Friday at noon and run all weekend, with the triathlon starting Sunday, Sept. 4 at Gray’s Lake Park and finishing at the Iowa State Capitol.
Oct. 15-16 — Des Moines Marathon. Saturday 9:30 a.m. at Principal Park, and Sunday, 8 a.m. at Cowles Commons.
Things to do in Valley Junction
Sept. 11 — Fall Antique Jamboree. Take a trip back in time to find old treasures. The Antique Jamboree is one of the largest outdoor antique shows in the Midwest. Many antique dealers will travel from across the Midwest to display a wide variety of wares, including furniture, primitives, architectural designs, vintage clothing, jewelry, linens, quilts, glassware, stoneware, textiles and toys. The event is family-friendly, and many local businesses will also be open during the event. Valley Junction will hold its annual antique sale, rain or shine, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Fifth Street area of Valley Junction. Admission and parking are free.
Sept. 18 — Henry Gregor Felsen Tribute Car Show. This car show is held in order to honor the memory of author Henry Gregor Felsen. Felsen is best known as author of the book “Hot Rod.” The event will include music, food vendors, and Valve Cover Races. Registration is from 9 a.m. – noon, and awards will be at 3 p.m. The top 25 hot rods will receive awards, and six special awards will be given. Pre-registration will be held until Sept. 1 and the cost is $20; registration on the day of the event will be $25. Proceeds go toward scholarships for the DMACC automotive program and the Drake School of Journalism.
Oct. 14 — Fall Gallery Night. Art galleries in Valley Junction will be open from 5-9 p.m. showing off new artwork by both local and international artists. Many other shops and restaurants in Valley Junction will have extended hours for the event. Gallery Night is in its 21st year. The event is free and open to the public.
Oct. 23 — Pumpkin Walk. Come watch as children of all ages show off their costumes from 2-4 p.m. This event will include trick or treating throughout Valley Junction, and free pumpkins will be given away at Swander Gazebo.
Nov. 17 — Jingle in the Junction. Watch Valley Junction come alive as it is decorated with more than 150,000 twinkling lights. The event will also include free horse and trolley rides, Santa Claus and caroling. In addition, Bill Goodish will be carving ice sculptures and Professor Von Air will be showing off some balloon magic. The event will be from 5-9 p.m.
Lots of fun at the zoo
Aug. 3 – Aug. 31 — Zoo Brew. This event is for people 21 and older, and it combines animals and beer – rest assured, the animals aren’t drinking the beer. Zoo Brew takes place every Wednesday in August from 5:30-9:30 p.m., with a variety of themes and brews, plus live music from local bands and, of course, the animals.
Aug. 6 – Nov. 5 — Animal Days. Every summer Saturday you can come to Blank Park Zoo and be educated about different groups of animals. On Aug. 6, you can learn about black rhinos and elephants, and how to help with their conservation. Then on Sept. 10, join Curious George and learn about primates such as lemurs, squirrel monkeys and gibbons. There will be crafts, games and stories to help celebrate and learn about these animals. And finally, on Nov. 5, come out and learn about red pandas.
Sept. 18 — Monarch Festival. Plant.Grow.Fly and other partners will be at Blank Park Zoo to highlight the migration of the monarch butterfly. In addition, there will be monarch-themed crafting and various other activities including a bug parade.
Sept. 22 — Zooktoberfest. Blank Park Zoo has combined Zoo Brew and Oktoberfest to make one unique celebration for people 21 and older. The event runs from 5:30-8 p.m. It will have live music, seasonal beers, German food, pretzel necklaces and your favorite animals.
Oct. 20-30 — Night Eyes. Night Eyes is now in its 26th year, and it is widely regarded as one of the top Halloween celebrations in central Iowa. The event runs from 1-8 p.m. n
ART
Des Moines is teeming with interesting art galleries. A few summer exhibits are still going strong, but many museums and galleries have begun switching out their attractions and starting anew in the autumn. If you’re up for it, the city boasts many art exhibits to keep you busy each weekend. Below are the listings of as many as we could find. Enjoy.
CALENDAR — Special Events
Sept. 23-25 — Iowa’s Largest Arts & Crafts Show. This giant arts and crafts show is back for another year at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Over 300 exhibitors flock to sell their creations. The show takes place in the Varied Industries Building. For more information, contact Tom Callahan at 563-652-4529 or by email at tcallahan@mchsi.com.
Oct. 5-8 — American Quilt Society’s Annual Quilt Week. The AQS is “seam-ingly” bringing in an endless number of heavy quilted blankets to display. Quilt week will be held in the Iowa Events Center. The event will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. Tickets are $10.08 for members and $12.60 general admission for one day, $18 for members and $23 general admission for two days, or $23 for members and $32 general admission for multiple days.
GALLERIES — Ongoing
From Our Hands, 400 E. Locust St.
www.from-our-hands.com.
Moxie, 505 E. Grand Ave. Suite 105
www.moxiedsm.com.
Tandem Brick Gallery, 2722 Ingersoll Ave.
www.tandembrick.com.
Des Moines Social Club, 400 Walnut St.
www.desmoinessocialclub.org.
Kavanaugh Art Gallery, 131 Fifth St.,
West Des Moines, www.kavanaughgallery.com.
Limited engagements
Olson-Larsen Galleries
203 Fifth St., West Des Moines
www.olsonlarsen.com
Aug. 5 – Oct. 1 — “New Work” featuring work by Anna Lambrini Moisiadis, Scott Charles Ross and Eugenie Torgerson.
Oct. 7 – Nov. 19 — “New Work & Gallery Night” featuring work by Brent Holland and Lee Emma Running.
Moberg Art Gallery, 2921 Ingersoll Ave.
www.moberggallery.com
Through Aug. 20 — “Make their Gold Teeth Ache” by Jordan Weber.
Aug. 26 – Oct. 9 — Work by Larassa Kabel.
Oct. 14 – Nov. 27 — “Karen Strohbeen & Bill Luchsinger + Prints.”
Octagon Center for the Arts, 427 Douglas Ave., Ames, www.octagonarts.org
Through Aug. 20 — “Places of Spirit and Light.” Landscape photography by Larry Mendenhall.
Aug. 26 – Oct. 15 — “Fiber Art.” Fabric sculptures by Priscilla Sage.
Aug. 26 – Oct. 29 — “Founders Exhibit: Celebrating 50 Years.”
Heritage Art Gallery, 111 Court Ave.
www.polkcountyheritagegallery.org
Through Aug. 25 — “Iowa Exhibited XXXI.” Celebrate Iowa photography.
MUSEUMS
State Historical Society of Iowa
600 E. Locust St., 281-5111, www.iowahistory.org
Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave.,
515-277-4405, www.desmoinesartcenter.org
Through Aug. 21 — “Glenn Brown.” Paintings with digital work overlaid. Anna K. Meredith Gallery.
Aug. 27 — Art Sampler: Free Family Fun. Classes and activities from 1-4 p.m.
Sept. 1 — Free Flicks: “To Catch a Thief.” Art Center Lawn, dusk.
Sept. 17 — “Vivian Maier Through a Critical Lens.” Organized by the Maloof Collection, courtesy Howard Greenberg Gallery, New York. The Art Center’s presentation was organized by Art Center Senior Curator Alison Ferris.
Sept. 17 — Family workshop: “Art from Nature.” 1-3 p.m. $15. Registration required.
Sept. 22 — “Finding Vivian Maier.” Film and commentary.
Though Oct. 9 — “Iowa Artists 2016: Listen Right Here: DSM.” Music by Alex Braidwood, made from the sounds of the city. Lower Richard Meier Building.
Through Oct. 9 — “Iowa Artists 2016: Body Snatchers.” Installations and performance arty by Jordan Weber. John and Mary Pappajohn Gallery at the Outdoor sunken courtyard.
Ankeny Art Center, 1520 S.W. Ordinance Road, Ankeny, 515-965-0940, www.ankenyartcenter.com
Aug. 2 – Sept. 28 — “Iowa Art Quilters.”
Oct. 4 – Nov. 30 — Sculptures by Annick Ibsen.
Oct. 4 – Nov. 30 — Photography by Gary Hoard.
Iowa State University Museums, 290 Scheman Building, Ames, www.museums.iastate.edu
Ongoing — “The People’s Collection: The Morrill Act and Iowa State.” Morris Hall.
Ongoing — “Commissioning a Collection: 75 Years of Public Art.” Neva M. Petersen Visual Literacy and Learning Gallery, Morrill Hall.
Faulconer Gallery
Grinnell College, www.grinnell.edu/faulconergallery
Aug. 29 — Gallery Talk: Glimpses. 4 p.m. Tim Berg and Rebekah Myers discuss their work.
Through Sept. 11 — Anders Krisár. Sculptures, primarily of the artist’s family.
Through Sept. 11 — “On the Bright Side…” Tim Berg and Rebekah Myers. Sculptures of shiny objects.
Sept. 30 – Dec. 11 — “Archipenko: A Modern Legacy.” Sculptures by Alexander Archipenko. N
MUSIC
NOTE: For the complete Iowa State Fair music schedule, go to page 66.
Thursday, Aug. 11
6 p.m. John Statz Band, Jason Walsmith @ Des Moines Social Club — $7-$10
9 p.m. GreyMarket @ Lefty’s Live Music — $6 (21 and older)
Friday, Aug. 12
8 p.m. The High Kings @ Hoyt Sherman Place — $25-$30
8 p.m. Beach Boys, The Temptations @ McGrath Amphitheater — $49-$110
9 p.m. Davina and the Vagabonds, NOLA Jazz Band @ Kum & Go Theater — $12-$15
Saturday, Aug. 13
8 p.m. Other Brothers, Stutterin’ Jimmy and The Goosebumps, Origami Animals @ Gas Lamp — $7
9:30 p.m. Reconnect @ Kum & Go Theater — $10-$15
Wednesday, Aug. 17
5 p.m. Every Time I Die, The Zealots, Submerged @ Vaudeville Mews — $15
7 p.m. Deftones @ Seven Flags Event Center — $43.75
Saturday, Aug. 20
11 a.m. Fresh Fest Music Festival @ Des Moines Social Club — $20-$25
4 p.m. Papi Sorrels, Jeremie Malotke, PJ Gartrell @ Blue Moon Dueling Piano Bar — Free (21 and older)
5 p.m. Repaid in Blood, Casket Robbery @ Lefty’s Live Music — $8
7 p.m. Floyd (Pink Floyd Tribute) @ Wooly’s — $10
8 p.m. Tiny Monsters, Dan Mederios @ Gas Lamp — $5
Sunday, Aug. 21
7 p.m. The Barefoot Movement, Abbie and the Sawyers @ Kum & Go Theater — $12-$15
9:30 p.m. Stumblesome, Community Centaur, Aeon Grey, Imperfekt @ Vaudeville Mews — $10 (21 and older)
Tuesday, Aug. 23
5 p.m. The Ataris @ Lefty’s Live Music — $12-$15
7 p.m. An Evening with the Mehmet Polat Trio @ Kum & Go Theater — $12-$15
7 p.m. Gov’t Mule, Blackberry Smoke @ Simon Estes Amphitheater — $35-$40
7 p.m. Volbeat @ Seven Flags Event Center — $44.25
Wednesday, Aug. 24
7:30 p.m. Birds of Chicago, Elizabeth Moen, Dustin Smith @ Kum & Go Theater — $12-$15
8:30 p.m. Rum Rebellion @ Vaudeville Mews — $5 (21 and older)
Thursday, Aug. 25
5:30 p.m. Music in the Junction @ Valley Junction Farmer’s Market — Free
Friday, Aug. 26
7 p.m. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels & The Pork Tornadoes, Pianopalooza @ Simon Estes Amphitheater — $10-$15
Saturday, Aug. 27
7:30 p.m. 10 Years & Finger 11, Evan Stone @ Wooly’s — $25-$30
8 p.m. Crooked Mile @ Gas Lamp — $7
8:30 p.m. Druids, Nest of Snakes, Let It Breathe @ Vaudeville Mews — $7 (21 and older)
Sunday, Aug. 28
2 p.m. Boomerang @ Snus Hill Winery — Free
2 p.m. Tony Valdez & the Large Band @ Summerset Winery — $5-$15
Wednesday, Aug. 31
7 p.m. An Evening with We Banjo 3 @ Kum & Go Theater — $15-$18
7 p.m. Digisaurus @ Lefty’s Live Music — $6 (21 and older after 9 p.m.)
8 p.m. O.A.R. @ Stephens Auditorium, Ames — $25-$34
Thursday, Sept. 1
5:30 p.m. Music in the Junction @ Valley Junction Farmer’s Market — Free
Friday, Sept. 2
7 p.m. Grateful Dead Experience: The Schwag @ Wooly’s — $10
Saturday, Sept. 3
12 p.m. Des Moines Jazz Festival @ Des Moines Social Club — $10-$50
4 p.m. PJ Gartrell, Jeremie Malotke, Tony Bohnenkamp @ Blue Moon Dueling Piano Bar — Free (21 and older)
Thursday, Sept. 8
5:30 p.m. Music in the Junction @ Valley Junction Farmer’s Market — Free
6:30 p.m. Max Jury, Dustin Smith @ Wooly’s — $12-$14
8:30 p.m. The Sheepdogs, Quaker City Nighthawks @ Vaudeville Mews — $15 (21 and older)
Friday, Sept. 9
6 p.m. Gunnar & the Grizzly Boys @ Wooly’s — $12-$15
Saturday, Sept. 10
4:30 p.m. Austin Jones, Trophy Wives, Run 2 Cover, Curses, Lake of Fat Kids @ Vaudeville Mews — $15
9 p.m. NRBQ, Los Straightjackets @ Des Moines Social Club — $25-$30
Sunday, Sept. 11
6 p.m. Gabe Dixon, David Ryan Harris @ Vaudeville Mews — $18
7 p.m. Bob Mould Band, Fury Things @ Wooly’s — $25
Thursday, Sept. 15
5:30 p.m. Music in the Junction @ Valley Junction Farmer’s Market — Free
7 p.m. Florida Georgia Line @ Wells Fargo Arena — $36.75-$71.75
Friday, Sept. 16
7 p.m. Gaither Vocal Band @ Des Moines Civic Center — $24.50-$72.50
9 p.m. Courtney Krause, The Other Brothers, Dust Radio @ Lefty’s Live Music — $7 (21 and older)
Saturday, Sept. 17
8 p.m. Agent Orange, Counterpunch, Goldblums, The Blendours @ Gas Lamp — $12-$15 (21 and older)
9 p.m. Stormcellar @ Lefty’s Live Music — $10 (21 and older)
Wednesday, Sept. 21
6 p.m. Switchfoot, Reliant K @ Seven Flags Event Center — $32.50
6:30 p.m. Hot Buttered Rum, The Lil Smokies @ Wooly’s — $12-$15
Thursday, Sept. 22
6 p.m. Skillet @ Seven Flags Event Center — $25
Friday, Sept. 23
8 p.m. Lewis Black @ Hoyt Sherman Place 1501 Woodland Ave. www.hoytsherman.org $39.50-$59.50
Saturday, Sept. 24
7:30 p.m. Des Moines Symphony: Ode to Joy @ Des Moines Civic Center — Tickets not yet available (5 and older)
Sunday, Sept. 25
4:30 p.m. Dope, Murder Earth, Section Hate, Down One Digit @ Lefty’s Live Music — $20-$25
7 p.m. The Fab Four: The Ultimate Tribute @ Hoyt Sherman Place — $32.50-$52.50
Wednesday, Sept. 28
6:30 p.m. The Anyone Who Knows Me Tour: Eric Hutchinson, Great Caesar, Haddon Cord @ Wooly’s — $20-$23
Friday, Sept. 30
7 p.m. Disturbed, Chevelle, Nothing More @ Wells Fargo Arena — Tickets not yet available
8 p.m. An Acoustic Evening with Richard Marx @ Hoyt Sherman Place — $46-$85
Saturday, Oct. 1
7:30 p.m. Celtic Thunder Legacy Tour @ Des Moines Civic Center — $50-$75
Sunday, Oct. 2
7 p.m. Dom Flemons, NOLA Jazz Band @ Des Moines Social Club — $15-$18
7:30 p.m. Jason Isbell, Josh Ritter @ Hoyt Sherman Place — $39.50-$49.50
Tuesday, Oct. 4
6:30 p.m. Drake @ Wells Fargo Arena —$49.50-$149.50
8:30 p.m. Steve’n’Seagulls @ Vaudeville Mews — $15 (21 and older)
Thursday, Oct. 6
7 p.m. Desdamona, The Wayv @ Kum & Go Theater — $10-$15
7 p.m. Elvis Costello, Larkin Poe @ Hoyt Sherman Place — $55-$99.50
Friday, Oct. 7
7 p.m. Carrie Underwood @ Wells Fargo Arena — 49.50-$79.50
Wednesday, Oct. 12
7 p.m. Randy & Lahey @ Wooly’s — $20-$25; (21 and over)
Saturday, Oct. 15
8 p.m. Jason Robert Brown Broadway Cabaret Concert @ The Temple Theater — Tickets not yet available
Sunday, Oct. 16
7 p.m. Donny McCaslin Group, Jason Lindner, Nate Wood @ Des Moines Social Club — $12-$15
Thursday, Oct. 20
5 p.m. Skeletonwitch, Iron Reagan, Oathbreaker, Homewrecker @ Vaudeville Mews — $16
Saturday, Oct. 22
9 p.m. Rocky Raccoon: A Tribute to the Music of the Beatles @ Lefty’s Live Music — $7 (21 and older)
Wednesday, Oct. 26
7:30 p.m. Widespread Panic @ Stephens Auditorium, Ames — Tickets not yet available
Saturday, Oct. 29
7:30 p.m. The Des Moines Symphony: A German Rhapsody @ Des Moines Civic Center — Tickets not yet available (5 and older)
Sunday, Oct. 30
2:30 p.m. The Des Moines Symphony: A German Rhapsody @ Des Moines Civic Center — Tickets not yet available (5 and older)
7:30 p.m. John Mellencamp @ Stephens Auditorium, Ames — $46.50-$119.50
Tuesday, Nov. 1
8 p.m. Amos Lee @ Hoyt Sherman Place — $39.50-$65
Wednesday, Nov. 2
8 p.m. Sturgill Simpson @ Hoyt Sherman Place — $30-$45
Friday, Nov. 4
7 p.m. Steepwater, Davy Knowles Band @ Kum & Go Theater — $20
Saturday, Nov. 5
7:30 p.m. Manhatten Transfer, TAKE 6 @ Hoyt Sherman Place — $21-$65
Sunday, Nov. 6
7:30 p.m. Ben Folds @ Hoyt Sherman Place — $35-$65
Saturday, Nov. 12
7:30 p.m. John Prince, Patty Griffin @ Des Moines Civic Center — $49-$75
Sunday, Nov. 13
8 p.m. Blue October @ Hoyt Sherman Place — $24.75-$35. ■