Free events in Des Moines, IA

Settle in for a 45 minute class designed to help release stress, tension, and anxiety while replenishing your energy and sense of vitality. The experience begins with a short guided meditation, followed by soothing sound healing as participants receive supportive Reiki. Reiki, a Japanese approach to nurturing wellbeing, is gentle and responsive to each person's needs. This free class is open to everyone, and registration is required because space is limited. Held at the MacRae Park Walker Shelter.

Death doulas Suzanne Pulcher and Erika Hall host an open circle for people navigating grief. The conversation is informal and guided by participants, centered on grief and related experiences. This is a come-as-you-are space that is free, confidential, and without pressure. RSVP is requested.

The 5th Annual Adult Recess comes to Captain Roy's, co-hosted by Des Moines Parks and Recreation and Captain Roy's. This free, adults-only evening features schoolyard favorites like tug-of-war, four square, board games, a hula hoop contest, and bags. A DJ will spin throwback hits while food and drink specials keep the energy up. Pre-registration is required.

Colby Park hosts a screening of The Lego Movie, an animated adventure about Emmet, a by-the-book LEGO construction worker who is mistakenly identified as the Special and thrust into a quest to save his world. Joined by an unexpected team, he sets out to stop Lord Business from gluing everything in place and learns that individuality and self-belief can be powerful. The film blends action, humor, and creativity for a family-friendly experience. Thanks to the sponsors supporting this movie night. Bolton & Menk is the presenting sponsor, and T-Fiber is the movie sponsor. Additional support includes cookies from Soper Automotive, popcorn from Flix, drinks from Pepsi, and pizza from Matt Cale State Farm.

At the Downtown Des Moines Farmers Market in the Court Ave District, enjoy breakfast sandwiches, waffles, and pancakes prepared entirely gluten free and celiac safe. These options are suitable for those who need or prefer gluten free food.

A free community workout open to anyone who wants to get moving and exercise together. There is no cost to participate.

Enjoy a relaxing outdoor yoga class at Gray's Lake Park. Hosted by Des Moines Parks and Recreation, this free session takes place on the S.E. Lawn and welcomes all experience levels, from first timers to seasoned practitioners. Flow through rejuvenating poses in a peaceful, scenic setting led by volunteer instructors. Classes are not held in the event of rain.

This is a no-cost yoga session led by local practitioners. In warm weather the class meets at Civic Plaza, and if it is cold or raining it shifts to the Sidebar at Brightside Aleworks. Presented by Brightside Aleworks and Sarah Kavalier REALTOR with support from weekly sponsors, this community practice offers a welcoming start to the day.

Families are invited to a lively story time that blends storytelling with music, rhymes, and simple movement. The session features books, songs, and interactive activities that keep children engaged while everyone shares stories and stays active.

Play bingo beneath the oak trees at the Biergarten at Waterworks Park, with casual board games between rounds, prizes, and activities welcoming to all ages. There is no cost to participate, and friendly hosts are available to help you get started. You are welcome to bring a favorite game to play between rounds as well. Plans may change with the weather, and updates are shared by The Dealt Hand.

Everyone is welcome at the Sandy McNamar Food Pantry, which offers free groceries to anyone in need. The pantry operates twice each month, and donations are appreciated. Contributions can be dropped off at the church during the week. The pantry team is ready to help and aims to make every visit warm and respectful.

This casual gathering brings people together for a shared walk around Gray’s Lake at Grays Lake Park. It offers a relaxed way to connect with others while enjoying the lakeside path. Open to everyone.

At the South Side Sunday Market, Esther Unearthed presents a mix of handcrafted treasures and treats for the neighborhood. Shoppers can explore signature crystal jewelry, responsibly sourced crystals, and crystal infused essential oil blends. The booth also highlights handmade crystal wands, sun catchers, and other whimsical pieces suited for gifting or personal care. Rounding things out, Flowerdough Sourdough offerings add a delicious option to enjoy while browsing. From natural wellness finds to unique keepsakes, there is something for a range of tastes.

Experience a monthly, free Faith & Fitness workout at CrossFit West Des Moines. The gathering begins with a warmup, moves into a group workout, and includes a short message with time for conversation. Everyone is welcome, no matter your background or fitness level. Connect with new people while building strength in both body and faith.

Excite Experiences celebrates its upcoming fifteenth anniversary with a free, casual Tour Party at West Des Moines Marriott. Travelers can meet the team, preview the 2027 tour lineup, and connect with others who share a passion for exploring the world in a relaxed setting with no sales pitch. Expect reflections on fifteen years of trips and what is ahead, giveaways, and Excite’s chocolate chip cookies with refreshments. Friends are welcome, curiosity is encouraged, and the aim is to spark ideas for a future adventure.

A candlelight ceremony focused on Agent Orange awareness will be held at Enabling Gardens in Altoona, located behind the Altoona Hy-Vee toward the southeast corner. Lawn chairs are recommended for comfortable seating.

Pleasant Hill Farmers Market features more than 50 vendors and a variety of food trucks, offering fresh produce, handmade arts and crafts, and baked goods from area bakers. Live music is part of the event, and merchandise will be available, including shirts for $20, hats for $25, stickers for $3, and koozies for $5.

Complimentary DJ-led trivia takes place at GoodSons on Beaver Ave, providing a free chance to test your knowledge.

Free DJ Trivia takes place at Mad Meatball.

Designed for toddlers and early elementary children, this free music class led by instructor Emily Roeder builds rhythm, coordination, and creativity through singing, movement, games, and instrument exploration. No advance registration is required. The session is planned outdoors on the EMC Plaza on the front lawn, with a weather backup inside the Center for Artists and Education.

All Ages Recess brings a free summertime vibe to Cowles Commons, inviting the community to get outside and enjoy downtown. Take a break during the workday for games, music, local food, and sweet treats. This edition features food trucks Hotsy Totsy, Fruits N Such, and Matcha LUV. It is a simple way to add a little play to your day and connect with others in downtown.

The Boys Do Cry Book Club focuses on men’s inner lives, relationships, and stories that question conventional ideas of masculinity. This meeting spotlights The House of Now & Then by Edward Underhill. The book is available for purchase in store or online with a 15 percent discount for this selection. There is no fee to attend and no sign up is required. Attendees may bring their own food and nonalcoholic drinks. Caretakers are encouraged to review content warnings if a teenager plans to participate.

Striking Sparrow Lounge hosts DJ Trivia, a live, team-focused game led by a DJ. Questions appear on screens and cover categories like movies, history, and music. It is free to play, with prizes awarded to top teams. Expect a lively, social setting that mixes friendly competition with a chance to show off what you know.

Think & Drink Entertainment brings a lively twist on a classic game to Wellman's Pub, combining bingo with music recognition. Instead of numbers, players listen for parts of songs and mark their cards with the correct titles. Five in a row earns a win. It is free to participate, open to all ages, and winners can receive complimentary drinks. The music rotates each week and spans decades and styles, from brand-new tracks to favorites many parents grew up with. Phones and other devices are not permitted, so the fun stays fair and focused on what you know and hear.

Enjoy no-cost DJ Bingo at Victory Lap Pub & Grub.

GoodSons hosts a free DJ Bingo event. Enjoy a no-cost bingo night with a DJ.

Enjoy complimentary DJ trivia at The Station on Ingersoll.

Geeks Who Drink hosts a live pub quiz at The Royal Mile, with the action taking place upstairs. Teams take on seven rounds that blend audio and visual challenges with on-the-mic hosting. There is no cost to play. Prizes are handed out for bonus questions, and the top teams at the end receive gift cards. Groups are limited to six players under Geeks Who Drink rules.

MFKS brings live Jazz, R&B, and Soul to the In Confidence Speakeasy at Hotel Fort Des Moines, and there is no cover charge. The group features Fred Gaddy on organ, Kyle Gowin on saxophone, Stephen Rieck on guitar, and Durell Jefferson on drums.