Live music in Ankeny, IA

Co-hosted by Des Moines Parks and Recreation and Captain Roy's, the 5th Annual Adult Recess offers a nostalgic evening of schoolyard fun. This free, adults-only event features a tug of war contest, four square, board games, a hula hoop contest, and bags. A DJ plays throwback hits, and there are food and drink specials. The focus is on playful competition, laughter, and summertime memories. Pre-registration is required.

Hawk Heaven Tavern hosts Joe Demerath for his first performance at the venue, featuring a set geared toward fans of 90s country music. He welcomes song requests from the crowd and aims to play as many as he can. An Army combat veteran, Joe directs tips and donations to support local Iowa veterans and organizations. Expect lively music, a friendly atmosphere, and great drinks.

Bound & Determined performs at Prairie Meadows Casino with the complete band lineup.

The Crowfoot Rakes return to Captain Roy's for a spirited homecoming performance filled with energy and good cheer. A festive atmosphere and a warm welcome back set the tone as the band comes home to play.

Step into a retro-themed evening where vintage cars, muscle machines, and slick bikes take center stage while classic 80s and 90s hits set the mood. Old-school arcade games and nostalgic decor amplify the throwback feel, and the menu keeps it simple with hot pizza and cold drinks. Expect a relaxed crowd that appreciates shiny chrome, hearty bites, and easygoing fun. Denim jackets and high-tops fit right in. From the rumble of engines to slices fresh from the oven, it is all about great rides, comfort food, and a lively throwback spirit. There is no cover, enthusiasts from every era are welcome, and the atmosphere stays upbeat throughout.

An upbeat, crowd friendly performance brings the concert series to a close and caps a summer of music. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and relax on the lawn just south of the Urbandale Public Library. Open to all ages, with coolers allowed so you can make an evening of it. Admission is free. Presented with support from AO Wealth and the City of Urbandale.

Think & Drink Entertainment brings a music-powered spin on bingo to Wellman’s Pub. Instead of numbers, each square features a piece of a song. Identify the title without using phones or apps, place a chip, and aim for five in a row to win. The night blends classic bingo with name-that-tune moments and lively sing-alongs. It is free to participate, winners can earn free drinks, and all ages are welcome. The playlist spans every decade and genre, from brand-new tracks to songs your parents might recognize, and it changes from week to week.

Throughout the summer, Revel Lounge & Patio features weekly live music from local artists in a relaxed outdoor setting. Guests can enjoy house cocktails and a complete food menu while taking in the show. Admission is free, dogs are welcome on the patio, and performances continue in any weather. With live entertainment each week, it is a convenient spot for an after-work meetup or a midweek night out in Des Moines.

Settle in for a relaxed evening at The District at Prairie Trail, where live acoustic music pairs with patio dining all summer. Each week, performances pop up at different outdoor restaurant locations, creating a Thursday night vibe with food, drinks, and a laid-back soundtrack. For weekly artist announcements and where to find the music, check The District’s social media updates.

Music in the Garden brings live performances to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden all summer, set outdoors in the picturesque Koehn Garden. Lush plantings and the garden’s distinctive walled landscape frame the experience, creating a scenic backdrop for live music. Each installment showcases regional and local bands across a mix of genres, building a relaxed yet lively atmosphere for time with friends, along with food and beverages that highlight the spirit of summer in the Garden. Tickets are available in advance online or at the door throughout the season.

This edition at Johnston Town Center presents a two-artist lineup with Suede alongside a returning act to the Tunes at Twilight series, offering an evening of live music as both groups share the spotlight.

Enjoy free DJ Bingo at Lynn's On Merle Hay.