Events in Polk County today

Settle in for focused creative time at a simple crop hosted at Holiday Inn Express Des Moines - Ankeny, an IHG Hotel. Early bird registration noted in the ticket link is $75 for the full multi-day session, with a daily option at $25. After the early bird deadline, pricing is $100 for the full event or $35 per day, payable prior to the event. Gifts at your table, prize drawings, and a project are planned at minimal or no extra cost, and the emphasis stays on crafting rather than themed outfits or games. Guests staying at the hotel can enjoy a hot breakfast. A discounted room rate of $111 per night for rooms with two queen beds is available through the hotel’s stated deadline. To reserve, call 515-965-2400 and ask for the Creative Memories rate.

Build confidence in how you move while exploring new ways to balance and navigate your surroundings. Aimed at adults ages 35 to 95 who are able to walk across grass, this outdoor class takes place in a playground setting at the Ashley Okland Star Playground at Greenbelt Landing. Sessions feature practical, real-world movements that may include standing and walking, step and jump variations, crouching, reaching, pulling, and climbing. Everything is optional, so you choose what to try and how much to do. The focus is a curious mindset that shifts from can’t to how could I, then discovers what becomes possible. Pricing is $45 for a four-class series or $12 for a single class.

Connect with fellow readers at a midday book discussion that highlights engaging titles and lively conversation. Attend in person at the Johnston Public Library or take part online via Zoom. Copies are available a month in advance at the Circulation Desk. For information about picking up a book club copy and to be added to the email list, contact Beth at stevens@johnstonlibrary.org. The featured selection is James by Percival Everett.

Early parenthood can feel joyful, intense, and everything in between. This postpartum and feeding support group welcomes expecting parents and those who are breastfeeding, pumping, combination feeding, or using bottles, as well as anyone seeking connection with other caregivers. The gathering is informal and judgment free, offering space to ask questions, share experiences, and receive encouragement without a set agenda. Attendees are welcome with their baby, with a friend, or on their own. An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant provides free weighted feeds and breastfeeding support during each session, including help with latch, milk transfer questions, pumping, and general reassurance. The group meets inside Balance Chiropractic & Wellness in Ankeny, Iowa, and attendance is free. It is not a sales event, and there is no pressure to become a chiropractic patient. Families who already have healthcare providers, and those not seeking chiropractic care, are equally welcome. The focus is education, encouragement, and community. This gathering does not replace individualized medical care, and participants can be directed to appropriate resources if additional evaluation or treatment is needed.

Claire’s Cake Corner comes to Brightside Market for a market event featuring sellers and treats. Browse the offerings and take in the market atmosphere.

A market takes place in front of Brightside Aleworks, featuring many vendors with produce and merchandise, food trucks, and more.

Car enthusiasts gather at Pleasant Hill Diner for a relaxed meet where vehicles of every kind, from timeless classics to custom builds, are welcome. Participants showcase their cars, connect with other fans, and enjoy diner fare in a friendly setting. All are invited, whether bringing a ride or simply stopping by to admire the lineup. Expect a laid-back scene with great conversation and plenty of eye-catching automobiles.

Many people have experienced trauma within traditional religious communities, which can leave them unsure how to rebuild a personal spiritual life and reconnect with community. This open, confidential, no-pressure support circle offers space to begin that healing process. Participants can share their stories, be heard, and connect with others on a similar path. Attendance is free. Free will donations are welcome to help keep this programming accessible for everyone. An RSVP is requested for planning. Questions can be directed to the organizer by email.

Free DJ bingo is happening at Victory Lap Pub & Grub.

At Good Vibes Yoga, this donation-based gathering offers a quiet space to breathe, settle, and cultivate gratitude for Earth in a time of accelerating climate shifts, unusual geological activity, and ongoing ecosystem change shaped by both natural and human forces. The practice centers on stillness, conscious breathing, presence, and shared intention to deepen connection with the ground beneath your feet and the pulse of life that moves through all beings. Participants are welcome to bring an offering for a Community Altar Exchange, such as something meaningful, handmade, natural, symbolic, or simply an item they feel ready to pass along. The collective focus is simple... pause, breathe, give back, and replenish.

First Fleet Concerts brings Geordie Greep to the stage at Wooly’s for a special night featuring the artist. This event is open to all ages. Tickets are available online or at the venue’s box office.

Taking place on the third Thursday of each month, this event features music bingo that blends the classic game with songs for a lighthearted way to play. Bring your listening skills and get ready to mark your card as the music guides each match.

This historical fiction book discussion meets at The Jordan House and is organized by the West Des Moines Public Library in partnership with the West Des Moines Historical Society. Conversations span many eras and settings, using stories to illuminate people and events from the past. Registration is requested. Pick up a copy at the Library’s Adult Services desk and staff will complete your registration at that time. If you plan to use your own book, register by contacting Jen at 515-222-3413.

Enjoy a relaxed, fall themed craft night with the Valley Sisterhood, where participants will adorn pumpkins with pressed flowers sealed with Mod Podge, then transform them into charming floral vases. The evening welcomes both avid makers and anyone seeking a lighthearted night out. Valley Sisterhood is a community for women ages 18 to 35 centered on creativity, connection, and belonging. Admission is $10 per person.

Power Move is a lively dance fitness class benefiting Dress for Success Des Moines. The session welcomes every experience level, and the $25 admission supports programs that help women build confidence and pursue economic mobility. It is hosted at Aptitude Fitness Des Moines. Participants should wear comfortable workout clothing and supportive shoes. Capacity is limited.

At Carlisle Public Library, the Tween Book Club explores Isle of Ever by Jen Calonita. Light snacks are offered and an activity is included.

Everyday English is an ongoing program for adults learning English. Sessions focus on practical language for daily conversations and on skills for life in the United States. A professional ESOL teacher leads the class with support from trained volunteers, and participants can access digital materials for continued practice after class. You can attend in person or connect online through the Zoom app if you prefer a virtual option. Classes are free, and registration is optional but appreciated. For information about accessing the online session, contact library staff.

Designed for ages 16 and up, this fall drama troupe invites participants to explore theatre and strengthen acting skills in a safe setting that supports social skill growth. The experience centers on learning through drama, enjoying the process, and building friendships with peers.

Enjoy free DJ bingo at GoodSons.

Each Thursday, Striking Sparrow hosts a weekly bingo night. This recurring event centers on the classic game of bingo.

The Station on Ingersoll hosts free DJ Trivia. Participants can test their knowledge at no cost in this trivia event.

Enjoy free DJ bingo at Sam's Bar & Grill in Altoona.

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

At Dungeon's Gate, the Maasive Reread Book Club offers a romantasy-focused discussion series built around the Maasverse. Readers revisit the A Court of Thorns and Roses saga, starting with ACOTAR and ACOMAF, then continue with ACOWAR, ACOFAS, and ACOSF. The conversation then shifts to Crescent City with House of Earth and Blood, House of Sky and Breath, and House of Flame and Shadow, and it all wraps up with a recap of all eight books as the sixth ACOTAR release approaches. The current book club selection is available at Dungeon's Gate at 20 percent off, and audiobook and ebook options are also available.

Geeks Who Drink hosts a live pub quiz at The Royal Mile, delivering seven rounds that blend audio and visual challenges with questions led by an on-site quizmaster. Entry is free, bonus-question winners receive prizes, and top-scoring teams earn gift cards. Teams can include up to six players based on Geeks Who Drink rules. The quiz takes place upstairs at The Royal Mile.

Thursdays at In Confidence bring a relaxed night centered on good vibes and an easy pace. This ongoing gathering continues week after week, creating a welcoming space to unwind and connect.

Business Over Board Games is a free networking coffee at The Rook Room that brings professionals together to build lasting connections while playing board games. The focus is on creating a comfortable space to get business, share news, and strengthen community ties in Central Iowa without the usual awkward introductions. The organizers note that board games can boost interpersonal connection by 53 percent and that isolation can reduce productivity by 21 percent, so the format centers on play to spark meaningful conversation. Complimentary coffee is provided. Attendance is subject to the organizer’s Purchase & Attendance Agreement and Privacy Policy.

The CrossRoads Classic is a shooting match featuring nine stages and a total of 180 rounds. Everyone completes the match in a single day, with staff scheduled to shoot on Friday. Competitors may choose to complete all stages on Saturday or Sunday, and a limited number of competitor slots are available on Friday. Registration is $120 and includes lunch. The match is led by Match Director Keith Walston, with Ethan Settle as Range Master.

This in-person, one hour community gathering at the West Des Moines Library focuses on practicing and building understanding of English through everyday expressions and practical phrases. Participants support one another as neighbors grow more comfortable with English while also sharing perspectives from their primary languages. The setting encourages everyone to both learn and contribute, creating a welcoming space where attendees can be learners and teachers at the same time.

Total Training is a small-group program designed for cancer survivors at any stage of their journey. Guided by a trainer certified in cancer exercise, it combines goal setting, nutrition and wellness coaching, cardio, resistance work, stretching, and breathing practices. Workouts are personalized to each participant so you can move at the right pace. There is no cost to attend, and advance registration is required. This is not a drop-in class.

Iowa Home Expo features free admission and a convenient way to plan any home improvement project. Homeowners can speak directly with local and national vendors to gather practical advice, explore ideas, and find ways to save on upgrades. Whether the goal is a kitchen refresh, an outdoor living makeover, or smaller updates throughout the house, this expo brings together the resources and guidance to help get the work underway.

Capital City Gaming Con is the Des Moines area board gaming convention, a weekend of tabletop fun held annually. The event centers on bringing people together through games and serves as a one-stop hub for the local community. Attendees can connect with local vendors, take part in sessions hosted by area businesses and influencers, and meet new friends in a welcoming setting. A curated library from Board Game Wagon offers more than 1,500 titles to explore, and a selection of play-to-win games gives participants a chance to take home a game simply by playing. Badge holders can reserve free tickets for scheduled events and tournaments, with some special events carrying an additional cost where noted. Signups are available in advance, then continue in person at the registration desk during the convention. The schedule includes tournaments with prizes and a variety of experiences presented by the organizers and community partners. Attendees can also propose and host their own events, and the Meeple Meet app will be used to help coordinate casual pick-up games during the convention. On-site dining is available at The Grill for breakfast and dinner, and there are numerous nearby restaurants in the area, many of which offer delivery through third-party services such as DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub. There is ample parking around the hotel, with the main entrance on the west side and the convention area located in the northwest part of the building. Families are welcome. Children ages 5 to 10 may register for a $10 kids badge or opt for a regular badge. Kids badges do not allow game library checkout or entry into play-to-win drawings. Children 11 and older require a full badge. Badges for this event will be offered with an early bird pricing period before regular pricing resumes.

First Fleet Concerts presents an evening with Mastodon, joined by Deafheaven and Alcest. The concert welcomes fans of all ages. VIP options are available, offering a meet and greet, early entry, and time to visit the merchandise shop, each with its own check in.

First Fleet Concerts brings Danielle Nicole to Wooly's for an all ages concert. Tickets are available online or at the Wooly's box office, with Fridays offering waived service fees.

At Des Moines Playhouse in Des Moines, follow Junie B. Jones as she faces Halloween jitters. She wonders whether witches and monsters might be real, worries about bats getting stuck in hair, and tries to figure out candy corn. Determined to be brave, she sets her sights on winning the school carnival games and prizes, hoping a string of victories will give her the confidence she needs. The story asks whether she can set aside her fears and enjoy Halloween.

Big Head Todd and the Monsters will now perform at Hoyt Sherman Place in Des Moines following a schedule change. Tickets from the originally planned show will be accepted, so please keep your current tickets. If the new date does not work for you, refunds are available for 30 days at the original point of purchase. Guests who bought in person at the venue box office should return there to request a refund.

Admission is free and the show welcomes the general public. Because this is a club event rather than a business operation, it may conclude early without notice if turnout is low. Many members travel from out of state and may head out sooner to begin their drive home, so arriving early is recommended to make the most of the visit.

The annual Taste of Norway hosted by the Daughters of Norway Eva Nansen Lodge features baked goods, a cafe, works by local artists and makers, vendors offering everything from books and clothing to soaps, and live music. Admission and parking are free. Enter on the west side of the high school and park on that side.

After months of preparation by dedicated church volunteers, this sale spotlights a wide selection of jams, jellies, and relishes. The marketplace also features crafts, greeting cards, jewelry, candles, books, woodworking pieces, fabrics and fiber items, along with baked goods and other snacks. Every purchase helps fund church ministries and supports local charities.

Support your favorite DMPS school at the 7th annual DMPS Foundation OneRun at Water Works Park. Enjoy a free 2-mile fun run or walk, or cheer on the DMPS community from the sidelines. Registration is free, and each participant selects the DMPS school they want to support. Sponsors provide the funding, and participation helps determine how much each chosen school receives, so every runner, walker, and supporter can make a difference.

Enjoy an indoor community holiday craft market presented by Pleasant Hill Community Farmers Market, where more than 70 local crafters, artisans, bakers, and others come together under one roof. Browse seasonal creations and useful finds for your home, yard, and nutrition needs in one convenient setting. The event is held at Berean Church.

This one-day celebration of local and independent authors invites readers to explore fantasy, science fiction, mystery, horror, and more. Meet the writers behind the stories, purchase books directly from them, and pick up signed copies throughout the event. Browse author merchandise and book-themed goods while discovering fresh characters, new worlds, and unforgettable adventures. Connect with fellow book lovers and show support for independent creators as you search for your next favorite read. Every new world begins with a storyteller.

Hy-Vee Kids Club offers a magic-themed experience at the Pleasant Hill Hy-Vee for young witches, wizards, and other magical creatures. Children can explore potions, make crafts, and enjoy special photo opportunities. The first 100 kids will receive a wand.

Presented by The Garden, the East Village Drag Brunch serves up a lively buffet-style show that has gone viral multiple times. Guests can enjoy a full brunch spread and have the option to add unlimited Mimosas or Bloody Marys, or choose from a cash bar with both alcoholic and nonalcoholic options. The buffet often features sausage, bacon, fresh fruit, warm biscuits and gravy, scrambled eggs, a savory breakfast casserole, maple infused french toast sticks, and seasoned vegetables prepared vegan. Performers appreciate tips, so bring small bills and cheer loudly to boost the energy. The cast includes Brandonna Dupri Lareese, Cherry Peaks, JV Monroe, Madison Cavalier, and Nolaré Diamond.

A book launch at Twisted Bean Coffee Company in Urbandale features an in-person meet and greet with the author. Attendees can get a book signed and hear more about the story.

Discover a seasonal resale pop-up with handpicked secondhand clothing, home decor, autumn-inspired finds, and fall treats. Browse one-of-a-kind pieces, pick up festive goods, and head home with a new favorite. Vendor booths are available for a flat fee with no commission taken, so sellers keep all proceeds and handle sales in their own way. Buying, selling, and trading options can differ by booth. Enjoy a fall-focused shopping experience from start to finish.

This meeting is open to non-members. Attendees pay for their own meals, and the gathering includes activities involving Rose O'Neill and Kewpies.

Celebrate the Des Moines Breakthrough T1D Hope Gala with an elegant night out that blends a welcoming cocktail hour, a traditional dinner, and standout entertainment. The evening also highlights the gala’s hallmark live and silent auctions, creating multiple ways to contribute to vital research focused on finding a cure. Ticket details will be announced soon.

Trick-or-Treat Night at Outlets of Des Moines offers a festive chance for children to collect candy and give back to the community. Kids 12 and under can visit participating stores to pick up treats, with availability limited on a first come, first served basis. Look for orange bows on exterior door handles to find the stops. Please bring a trick-or-treat bag and a canned food item for the Caring Cauldron, benefiting the Caring Hands Outreach Center to help families in need. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Inappropriate costumes and toy weapons are not permitted. Event details may change without notice.

Hat Trick makes its first appearance at Des Moines Fraternal Order of Eagles 109 with a set of classic favorites. The event is open to the public, welcoming longtime regulars and new faces alike.

Skateland Des Moines hosts a themed skate night dedicated to Michael Jackson, featuring a soundtrack of his greatest hits. Families are welcome, with opportunities to moonwalk and show off smooth moves on the rink. The venue remains open through the afternoon and into the evening, so guests can arrive early or stay later around the highlighted session. The focused block of MJ music spans two hours within the evening schedule.

Beyond Media Entertainment presents an evening of original music at Down Under Bar & Grill with Mad Delirious. This psychedelic funk outfit from Mason City, Iowa blends driving grooves with hazy shoegaze textures and expansive improvisation, shaping a live show that is energetic, immersive, and built for getting lost in the sound.

A lively weekend karaoke night with a friendly crowd and a high-energy vibe. Take the mic, order drinks and something tasty to eat, and soak up the fun atmosphere. The singing can carry on late when there is strong crowd interest.

Admission is free for a country music performance by Royce Johns at the Finish Line Show Lounge. Guests must be 21 or older to attend.

Wooly's and IA Live present Daft Disko, an event for ages 21 and up. Tickets are available online or at the Wooly's box office, where service fees are waived on Fridays.

Celebrate a milestone as the IMT Des Moines Marathon Weekend marks 25 years of running with a nod to its 2002 beginnings. Thousands of runners and supporters come together in the heart of downtown Des Moines for a full slate of races and festivities. The marathon features a scenic, fast course, and there are distances for every level, including a half marathon, 10K, 5K, Marathon Team Relay, and a Free Kids Run. Beyond the finish line, the weekend buzzes with spirited cheer zones, a lively expo, local entertainment, and an energized race day atmosphere that highlights the best of Des Moines.

Round 3 of the Scorched Carpet on-road series blends competitive racing with a paint and graphics concours. Entrants will vote in the concours, and the top paint and graphics entry earns a prize. Racing spans multiple classes, including Tamiya Eurotruck, Losi NASCAR, Break-Out, Fixed-Timing Tub, and Advanced 21.5T Touring Car. The top qualifier in each class receives a five dollar payout. The weekend includes open practice and registration on Saturday, then additional practice on Sunday along with concours voting before racing begins and a registration cutoff ahead of the first heats. This championship is part of a three-race series that uses points-based scoring. The program features two rounds of qualifying, A-mains and lower mains, and two drivers bump up from every lower main.

The annual Spooky Sip N’ Thrift features local vendors, Halloween-inspired drinks, and a full dose of seasonal atmosphere. Costumes are encouraged, and there will be opportunities to enjoy everything Captain Roy’s has to offer. All vendor spots are currently filled.

At the Surety Hotel, Rive Pilates and Resonate Healing offer a two hour immersive session that blends intentional mat Pilates with grounding sound healing. The experience begins with a 45 minute mat flow guided by Rive Pilates, then moves into a one hour sound bath led by Resonate Healing. A curated gift bag is included to support rest and reset. The approach centers on simple, accessible movement and an immersive, harmonic soundscape to encourage reflection, release, and a renewed sense of alignment while supporting the nervous system. Attendance is purposefully limited for a more personal setting. All equipment is provided, and grip socks are recommended. No special preparation is needed. Tickets are released monthly. Price is $65.

Dungeon's Gate hosts casual Commander open play for Magic: The Gathering. Participants bring their own decks and settle in for one or two games. Deck power and experience levels vary, and new players are welcome. This is a free, weekly meetup focused on relaxed, social play.

Create a floral keepsake from a beloved book in a relaxed, beginner-friendly workshop at Fleurs Forever. With step-by-step guidance, you will arrange high quality artificial flowers and greenery within the pages to craft a unique display for your home. Choose soft neutrals, vivid seasonal tones, or a favorite color palette so your piece reflects your style. No prior experience is required, and the session offers a calm, creative pause from everyday routines while you make something to treasure. All materials are provided, including a curated selection of faux blooms and foliage, and you will take home your finished creation. Refreshments may be available. Come on your own or with friends and expect a warm welcome.

Enjoy a playful scavenger hunt throughout the Youth Services Area. Search for 10 themed items around the space, and after finding them all, receive a small prize. Suitable for all ages.

No Coast BJJ in Urbandale is hosting a free open mat that welcomes practitioners from any gym and at every experience level, including those from outside central Iowa. Wear what suits your training style, whether gi, no gi, or a singlet, and expect plenty of live rolling.

The inaugural Heartland Harvest with Heartland Youth Choir offers a family-friendly afternoon of seasonal fun. Admission is free, with an indoor trunk-or-treat, autumn crafts, games, and other activities to enjoy. Look for freshly baked goodies and a family dinner option, plus select food items and additional activities available for purchase. The event celebrates fall and also supports the choir’s singers.

The CJC Big Band spotlights the legacy of Iowa composers and performers with a swinging jazz program. Expect selections connected to figures such as Glenn Miller, Bix Beiderbecke, Meredith Willson and more, presented over a three hour performance. Presented by the Community Jazz Center of Greater Des Moines, the CJC Big Band concerts on the third Sunday of the month are free and open to everyone.

This event takes place at Des Moines Biergarten, a family-friendly popup German-themed beer garden in Water Works Park. The venue serves steins of beer and German-inspired food and is open Wednesday through Sunday from May to October.

A drive-thru fall experience tailored for individuals with autism and other special needs, enjoyed entirely from the comfort of a vehicle. Admission is free. To ensure there are enough goodies for everyone, advance registration is requested.

The 2027 Miss Polk County competition takes the stage at Grand View University’s Viking Theatre in Des Moines. Contestants will compete for scholarships and four tickets to Miss Iowa 2027. A competition guide is available for those planning to participate, and organizers are open to questions.

Tabletop roleplaying fans can settle in at The Rook Room Game Lounge & Cafe for an open play gathering that welcomes established parties as well as newcomers looking to try a new TTRPG. During the event, two themed drinks come with in game perks at the GM’s discretion. The Mana Potion blends blueberry purée, blue raspberry syrup, sour mix, Fresca, and Sprite, and includes a +1 Mana wooden token that can recharge a spell slot. The Health Potion mixes strawberry purée, raspberry syrup, peach syrup, Fresca, and Sprite, and comes with a +10 HP wooden token that can be used as temporary or recharged HP. Tables are set aside so local adventuring groups can chase treasure or confront a Big Bad together. A wide range of systems are welcome, including DND, Pathfinder, Kids on Bikes, Call of Cthulhu, Cyberpunk, and Warhammer. By attending, participants agree to the venue’s Purchase and Attendance Agreement.

At Dungeon's Gate, Dungeons & Dragons play spans five tables that rotate, resulting in ten active campaigns. All tables are currently filled. If you are looking for a group, you can ask to be added to the waitlist through the store's Discord in case a spot opens.

xBk presents an evening with Stanley Simmons, the collaboration between Evan Stanley and Nick Simmons. Lifelong friends who grew up on the road with their fathers, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons of Kiss, they finally made music together and were met with an immediate response that sparked a new project. After early demos caught the attention of producer Rob Cavallo, he came on to manage and produce their debut full length, setting the stage for their first North American tour. This is an all ages show with general admission standing room, and seating is limited and offered on a first come, first served basis. ADA accommodations are available upon request. Reserved table add ons are offered for those who want to secure seats. Each table fits up to four and does not include admission, so every attendee will still need a general admission ticket. Choices include a Floor High Top Side Table for $50 plus fees and a Premium Balcony High Top Table for $50 plus fees.

Each Sunday at Locals, singers can take the stage for karaoke backed by a live band. This format lets you perform with live accompaniment for an onstage experience.

A relaxed meet up every Monday centered on morning coffee, friendly conversation, and a bit of fun with others. It offers an easy way to connect and chat to start the week in good company.

A LifeServe community blood drive at Anytime Fitness in Altoona will welcome donors at a bloodmobile on site. Donations made through LifeServe go directly to hospital patients who need blood for treatment, creating an immediate impact. If you have already scheduled a donation, please keep your appointment, as local patients are depending on it. Inviting a friend or coworker to donate can help fill the schedule and expand the support for the community.

A monthly pork loin dinner fundraiser offers a $10 plate that includes pork loin, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and a roll. Guests can eat on site or take their meals to go. Drinks and desserts are available for an additional charge. Skip the cooking and cleanup and make it a family-friendly outing.

Maker Mondays is a monthly creative series with a changing focus, ranging from guided lessons in specific tools or art techniques to open lab time where you can bring your own projects and make use of the Makerspace equipment. Registration is required. This month features a session with Carol Weihe exploring how hand stitching quilt squares can become a calming practice that captures personal stories. Inspired in the summer of 2020, Carol began working on small four inch squares that grew into a stitching journal, with each piece reflecting its own narrative. She will explain how the project began, share stories behind some of her squares, and outline simple ways to start. Everyone will begin a hand stitched square during the class and take it home.

Begin your quilting journey with a four-week class that covers the essentials, from choosing fabrics and using a rotary cutter to practicing strip piecing, then finishing with quilt layering and binding the edges. Expect learn-by-doing instruction with plenty of personalized guidance, along with handy tips you can apply to future projects. You will leave with a solid foundation to continue making quilts with confidence.

Practice English conversation in a relaxed setting with guidance from a native speaker. This group welcomes non-native speakers who want to build confidence while discussing current news, timely events, and aspects of American culture. Sessions are available in person and through Zoom for those who prefer to participate virtually. The program is free. Registration is not required, though advance sign-up is appreciated. For sign-in details to the online session, contact Library Staff.

Since 1984, this weekly French conversation group has created a relaxed setting to practice the language, meet fellow enthusiasts, and build speaking confidence. All proficiency levels are welcome, including those who would like to simply listen. The gathering takes place at Gateway Market & Cafe in Des Moines.

GoodSons on Beaver Ave hosts a DJ trivia event that is free to play.

Yankee Clipper hosts no-cost DJ Bingo.

Enjoy complimentary DJ bingo at The Pelican Post Bar & Grille.

Lynn's On Merle Hay hosts free DJ trivia.

Geoffrey Junior hosts an open mic centered on acoustic music. Performers may play solo or pair up as a duo, and full drum kits are not permitted.

Refresh body and mind with a two mile wooded hike followed by stretching and mindful breathing. The outing takes place at Greenwood Park in Des Moines, with activities centered near Greenwood Pond, south of the Art Center and north of Ashworth Pool. It welcomes participants of all experience levels and is pet friendly. For questions, contact mary@aboveandbeyondcancer.org.

This monthly afternoon networking event is sponsored by Fareway Meat and Grocery. It is for members, and prospective members may attend to learn more, with time afterward to discuss how to join and what comes with membership. Please RSVP online or by emailing Kennedy at kennedy@altoonachamber.org.

Enjoy a monthly Movie Matinee on the library’s large screen, featuring everything from recent hits to classic favorites. Screenings are free, and snacks are provided. To learn which movie is playing this month, check with the front desk.

This giveback night at Little Caesars Pizza supports East Elementary. Enjoy a meal while contributing to the school, and remember to show the flyer at the time of purchase so your order is credited to East Elementary. The flyer will be sent home in advance.

Slip into a throwback scene filled with vintage cars, muscle rides, and slick bikes while classic 80s and 90s tracks play. Old-school arcade games and retro decor set the mood, with fresh pizza and cold drinks on hand. Expect a laid-back crowd that loves chrome, carbs, and good times. Denim jackets and high-tops match the vibe, yet all eras are welcome. From revving engines to cheesy slices, it is all about good food, great rides, and nostalgic energy. No cover and good vibes only.

New View Autism hosts a parent education session with Easterseals Iowa focused on how assistive technology can support individuals with disabilities and their families. Topics include tools that aid communication, sensory needs, daily living, learning, mobility, and independence. Attendees will also hear about the Assistive Technology Lending Library, a program that lets families borrow and test devices before buying so they can compare options and make informed choices. Capacity is limited to 20 participants.

This recurring board game night at Dungeon's Gate offers the chance to bring favorite titles to play and share, join a game even if you do not bring anything, or choose from a wall of more than 400 demo games ready to play. There is no cost to participate, and everyone is welcome, from first-time players to experienced gamers of all ages.

This gathering offers communal journeying and meditation focused on entering a conscious, deeply relaxed state to welcome guidance, healing, and connection. Rooted in a shamanic practice similar to dreaming in a wakeful state, it encourages a sense of empowerment and a deeper relationship with the universal life force. Practicing together supports participants in going further than they might alone and helps build community. The intention is to provide space for a shared spiritual practice without heavy commitments of time, money, or energy. Some sessions will highlight a theme, while others will follow what the group most needs. The experience concludes with an optional sharing circle where attendees may speak about their journey or head out if they prefer. It also offers a chance to meet others and develop intuitive skills. Offered by Radiate Light Collective in service to the community. This class is donation based, and no sign up is required.

Learn the essentials of Social Security and Medicare in a one hour, no cost workshop designed for adults 19 and older. Hosted in the Clive Public Library Greenbelt Room and presented by The Society for Financial Awareness, a national nonprofit, this session focuses on clear, practical guidance. Participants are encouraged to bring questions. Topics include how to determine an appropriate Social Security filing age, how other retirement income can influence Social Security taxes, and ways to align benefits with pensions or savings. The Medicare segment reviews key rules, important deadlines, and enrollment choices, explains the differences among Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medigap supplements, and Part D prescription coverage, and outlines how premiums and income related adjustments can affect overall retirement costs. Advance registration is required. Multiple offerings cover the same material.

Take part in a booster draft every Tuesday featuring Reality Fracture. The entry fee is $22, with prizes from Reality Fracture. After drafting, build a 40 card deck from your picks and compete against other participants.

Enjoy free DJ Bingo at Bevy's Tavern.

Enjoy free DJ Bingo at The Other Place in Clive.

Play free DJ Trivia at Yankee Clipper and test your knowledge.