Events in Ankeny today

Log Saturday morning miles in a friendly weekly meetup that welcomes everyone. Runners, walkers, stroller pushers, cyclists, and pups are all invited to take part. The group meets at Fitness Sports in Uptown Ankeny, then participants can walk over to Porch Light afterward for more conversation and to support another Uptown Ankeny small business.

The Uptown Ankeny Farmers Market takes place at Ankeny Market & Pavilion Park and features a variety of offerings from market vendors. Expect fresh produce, locally raised meat and eggs, homemade foods, and handcrafted goods. Roof Iowa is the presenting sponsor. Please be cautious of unofficial comments that claim to sell extra vendor spaces, do not share payment or personal information, and send questions to farmersmarket@uptownankeny.org.

Start the morning with a free yoga session guided by local instructors. If the weather is warm, the class meets at Civic Plaza, and if it is cold or rainy, it shifts to the Sidebar at Brightside Aleworks. Presented by Brightside Aleworks and Sarah Kavalier REALTOR with support from weekly sponsors. It is a refreshing way to begin the day.

Kick off the weekend with gentle movement, mindful breathing, and fresh air as YogaSix instructors guide a free outdoor yoga class. The session welcomes everyone, from first-timers to seasoned practitioners, and focuses on leaving participants recharged and ready for the days ahead. Bring a yoga mat and water, and invite a friend for a calm start in the park.

Refresh your crafting stash at an annual sidewalk sale filled with deals on brand new and gently used supplies, along with studio exclusives. Search for bargains and unexpected gems, and pick up fresh ideas during a live crafting demonstration. Shoppers receive a special gift with purchase while supplies last. Step inside the studio as well to browse even more products and exclusive offerings. A welcoming stop for anyone stocking up on essentials or seeking inspiration for a new project.

Ankeny gets a taste of the islands at Brown Dog Bakery with tropical-themed toys and treats, complimentary pet leis while supplies last, luau-style goodies for four-legged friends, playful photo spots, and in-store giveaways and surprises throughout the day. Hawaiian shirts are encouraged, and pets are welcome for a relaxed celebration filled with treats, photos, and tropical cheer.

Hosted by Des Moines Parks and Recreation at the Ewing Park Lilac Arboretum, this family friendly star party celebrates the peak of the Perseid meteor shower, a spectacle observed for more than two millennia. The evening features creative crafts, engaging experiments, and space themed activities for all ages, along with opportunities to learn about the night sky as twilight fades. There will be an outdoor screening of Wall-E on a big screen with freshly popped popcorn. Guests may bring blankets and lawn chairs. Admission is free and open to the public.

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.

These tryouts are for the 26/27 season and are open to boys and girls entering grades 1 through 8 in the 26/27 school year. Participants should meet the stated grade eligibility for consideration.

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.

The metro west circuit gathers for the third annual Holy Smokes BBQ, a potluck celebration with tastings and a friendly vote to choose a favorite barbecue, all in support of Women at the Well. Attendees are encouraged to come hungry and bring a dish to contribute to the shared table.

Shared on behalf of Post 682 American Legion Auxiliary, this candlelight ceremony centers on awareness of Agent Orange. It takes place at the Enabling Gardens in Altoona, situated behind the southeast corner of the Altoona Hy-Vee. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs for comfortable seating.

Learn to get comfortable with your serger in a hands-on class focused on the essentials. Instruction covers how to thread the machine, set tension correctly, and apply it for everyday stitching tasks. Participants need to bring a serger, and machines must be in good working condition and no more than 20 years old. If you are considering a Babylock serger, speak with Cindy for purchasing guidance.

Art Is Rad hosts Art Night at Big Grove Brewery, a relaxed creative meetup open to all skill levels. Each week brings a fresh project to try, from watercolor and collage to playful paint and pass activities. The cost is $10 and includes guidance and all supplies. RSVP is encouraged to help plan materials, capacity is limited to 20 people, and walk ins are welcome.

The Urbandale Optimist Club holds a monthly gathering at Cozy Cafe in Johnston, Iowa. The meeting centers on planning upcoming events that support kids and the community, providing time for discussion and coordination among attendees.

Set out from Water Works Park Amphitheater for a friendly group ride covering roughly 17 to 20 miles. The route loops through Water Works Park, continues by Gray’s Lake and downtown Des Moines, crosses the Inter-Urban trestle, heads into the Beaverdale neighborhood, then returns to the trail, using a mix of trails, neighborhood streets, and some road segments. The anticipated pace is about 12 to 16 miles per hour and may vary with the group. Newcomers are welcome to try one ride, and free membership is required to participate on additional weeks. Plan to gather near the restrooms for a quick photo and a brief safety chat before rolling out together. Helmets are required. Bringing water, lights, and basic flat-repair items is recommended but not mandatory. A waiver must be signed before participating and is provided prior to the ride.

Hawk Heaven Tavern hosts a free DJ-led trivia event for anyone who wants to test their knowledge.

Yankee Clipper hosts DJ Bingo with no admission cost.

Free DJ Trivia takes place at Lynn's On Merle Hay, with trivia questions that let participants test their knowledge.

AYP in the AM brings together young professionals for a casual morning networking meetup hosted by IV Nutrition Ankeny. Enjoy relaxed conversations, share ideas, and sip morning beverages in a friendly setting. Bring business cards to exchange with members of the Ankeny Young Professionals community. No registration is needed, so stop in, take part in the discussions, and give your network a refreshing boost.

Laura Piland of Slice of Pi Quilts will present on quilts inspired by children’s picture books. What began with spotting quilts in storybook illustrations during bedtime reading grew into recreating those designs in fabric, culminating in Storybook Quilts, a collection featuring 14 patterns based on beloved titles such as Llama Llama Red Pajama, Clifford the Small Red Puppy, and Hello Lighthouse. The talk explores how favorite stories can be translated from the page to the quilt, along with the creativity behind each design. There will be time to socialize before the meeting. Nonmembers are welcome, with admission set at $10 per meeting, or an annual dues option of $45 that includes all monthly meetings and more.

Burger night returns at The Cottontail with cold drinks and familiar faces for dinner. The special is a cheeseburger with chips for $8.

Enjoy a regular board game night at Dungeon's Gate, where tables are ready for casual play and discovery. Bring a favorite to share, jump into an open game without bringing anything, or choose from a library of more than 400 demo titles available in-store. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome, from first-time players to long-time enthusiasts of any age.

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.

Learn the essentials of stand-up paddleboarding in a calm water setting with guidance from an experienced instructor. This introductory class covers launching, balance, board control, and a range of paddle strokes to help build confidence on the water. Open to participants ages 16 and older. Equipment is provided, but supplies are limited, so advance registration is required.

Highland Underground presents a hands-on cocktail class led by General Manager Jake Humburg, tailored for an intimate group capped at 12 participants. The cost is $65 per person. Guests learn to make two signature drinks while enjoying curated small bites, gaining an inside look at the techniques, flavors, and creativity that shape the venue’s cocktail program. Humburg, recognized multiple times by the Iowa Restaurant Association in cocktail competitions, has helped guide Highland Underground’s beverage program and operations since its 2025 opening. Monthly themes keep each session fresh, with August focusing on rum, September spotlighting agave spirits such as tequila and mezcal, October centered on bourbon, November highlighting world whiskey including Irish, Scotch, and Japanese styles, and December featuring holiday cocktails. Designed to be approachable and interactive, it suits cocktail enthusiasts, date nights, and anyone seeking a memorable evening in Des Moines. New sessions are offered on the second Tuesday of each month.

Adventurers of every class can step into a creative quest at Glazed Expressions in Ankeny during a Dungeons & Dragons themed pottery painting night. The studio adds a tabletop twist, inviting painters to roll dice that influence the piece they select, the background color, and the designs they add, or to chart their own path instead. A special, event-only selection of D&D inspired pottery and tracing designs will be available, featuring dragons and arcane symbols for a truly legendary masterpiece. Registration is $10 per person and secures a seat, with pottery pieces chosen and paid for at the event. Capacity is limited. Aim for that natural 20 on your creation and let chance spark new ideas. To avoid scams, do not purchase seats from individuals on Facebook or other third party sellers, as those tickets will not be honored.

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.

Enjoy free DJ trivia at Sam's Bar & Grill.

Enjoy free DJ Trivia at Tito's Lounge. Test your knowledge and have some fun.

Enjoy a free DJ trivia event at Yankee Clipper.

This fiber arts camp welcomes students entering grades 4 through 8 to explore creative techniques with guidance from Miss Elizabeth or a Kids Create teacher. Participants will learn fiber painting on flat surfaces and build sculptural pieces through needle felting, gaining new skills and bringing home eye-catching artwork. The fun continues with lighthearted cat videos, music, snacks, and time to interact with adoptable kittens. Camps are drop off style. Sending a no-spill water bottle is helpful, and clothing that can get stained is recommended. Please share any health considerations or food allergies, and confirm serious allergies with the instructor at drop off. Cancellations made two weeks or more before the start of camp receive an account credit. There are no refunds, credits, or transfers for cancellations within two weeks or for missed camps.

Polk County Extension hosts a family-friendly outdoor storytime at The Enabling Garden in Altoona that explores the plants we eat. The program features stories in the garden, themed activity stations, and hands-on activities for children and their caregivers. Registration is encouraged but not required.

All Ages Recess is a free outdoor gathering at Cowles Commons that makes it easy to get outside, connect with the community, and enjoy downtown. Framed as a playful pause in the workday, it offers games, music, local food, sweet treats, and plenty of community fun. Food trucks for this occurrence include Hotsy Totsy, Fruits N Such, and Matcha LUV.

This event is part of the Summer of Great Taste food truck series at Homemakers, with food trucks parked out front and picnic table seating nearby. A free cookie is available inside at HomeGrounds Cafe.

Family Night offers free meals for children 12 and under with an adult purchase. There are a few updates, as only the full menu will be available, and the salad bar is coming soon. This offer is available every Wednesday.

A free weekly meetup at Dungeon's Gate offers casual Commander open play for Magic: The Gathering. Participants can bring one or more favorite decks and enjoy a few friendly games. Players of all experience levels and deck strengths are welcome, including newcomers.

Earthing with Olive offers an outdoor yoga class that combines gentle movement with tea and live music for a calming experience in nature. If the weather does not cooperate, the session may shift indoors. The drop-in rate is $20 per person, and participation is included with the Seed online membership, which is $55 per month. Members are added to a group chat for updates, and classes can also be purchased week by week.

A healthy baby shower for new and expecting mothers in Polk County provides information on pregnancy nutrition, infant development, and community resources, along with opportunities to connect with other expectant mothers. Each participant receives a Healthy Baby Backpack containing baby gifts worth over $100. There is no cost to attend, made possible by the Polk County Extension Council and partners. Those who cannot attend in person can participate virtually.

This free social run welcomes all ages and abilities for an easygoing outing through Uptown Ankeny. Options include 2, 4, or 6 miles, and all distances are welcome. It offers a friendly way to connect with others, share encouragement, and build accountability for health and wellness goals. The group meets at Fitness Sports in Uptown Ankeny.

Savor Chuck’s Graziano Italian sausage sandwich with chips for $10 at Cottontail, available while supplies last. Afterward, team up for trivia to test your knowledge, earn bragging rights, and compete for a $25 bar tab for the winners.

Enjoy free DJ trivia at Doug's Pub & Grub.

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.

Enjoy free DJ Bingo at The Other Place in Ankeny.

Taking place at Iowa State Fairgrounds & Interim Events, the Iowa State Fair schedule includes an early arrival window, a deadline to be in place, and a show that spans two consecutive days. The timeline allows for arrival and setup in advance, followed by a clear cutoff for being in place, and then the main show across two days.

Rainbow Planeswalkers brings a casual, queer-focused Magic: The Gathering experience to Dungeon's Gate. This free, drop-in gathering welcomes players ages 13 and up who self-identify as queer, with allies invited to take part alongside them. Bring a deck to play or use one that will be available, and no prior experience is needed. Games are most often played in the Commander format, and participants are welcome to suggest other formats.

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.

This ongoing series supports adults who are learning English, with lessons centered on practical language for everyday conversations and guidance for navigating life in the United States. A professional ESOL teacher leads each session with help from trained volunteers, and students can continue practicing with digital materials provided afterward. Attend in person or choose a virtual option through the Zoom app. For sign-in details, email Library Staff at esol@johnstonlibrary.org. Participation is free, and registration is optional but appreciated.

Marlin, a cautious clownfish, lives with his son Nemo on the Great Barrier Reef. When Nemo is taken to Sydney, Marlin steps beyond his fears and sets out across the ocean to find him. Along the way he is encouraged by Dory’s upbeat spirit, meets the easygoing sea turtle Crush, and finds allies in the supportive Tank Gang. Their separate journeys challenge them and bring them closer to each other, celebrating courage, friendship, and the effort to reunite while discovering who they are.

Sam's Bar & Grill hosts a free-to-play DJ Bingo event.

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