Featured Events in Des Moines in July, 2025 (July Updated)

“Roz is the heroine you need to see in this terrible and trying time! Her voice is essential, hilarious, profane and profound!!!!! She is my drug.” -Margaret Cho Roz Hernandez (she/her) is a transgender comedian based in Los Angeles. In 2023 she starred in an 8 episode tv series on Hulu called “Living for the Dead” with Kristen Stewart. In 2024 New York Magazine’s Vulture named her one of the “Comedians You Should and Will Know”, she was the opening act for Bob the Drag Queen’s US tour, Apple Podcasts named her comedy podcast “Ghosted!” their Pick of The Month, and she was featured in the Netflix documentary about LGBTQ standup called “OUTstanding: A Comedy Revolution”. Roz performs all over the world in comedy venues and as a regular comedian on Atlantis Gay Cruises. In 2025 Queerty nominated her for their comedian of the year category at their annual award show. RozHernandezTour.com “I toured with Roz and I could say a lot about her, but I'll just say that she is hilarious. I won't comment on her personality. “ -Bob The Drag Queen -All tickets include a free meet and greet after the show with Roz, exclusive merch available. -THERE IS NO VIDEO OR AUDIO RECORDING ALLOWED DURING THE PERFORMANCE. -No children allowed. -No assholes allowed. -Any venue specific questions, please contact the venue directly by phone/email. -Since this venue is known for it's fabulous drag shows, Roz wants to honor the environment by accepting cash tips during her performance. -Doors at 7 pm, show at 8 pm. Information Source: Roz Hernandez America Tour 2025 | eventbrite

“Roz is the heroine you need to see in this terrible and trying time! Her voice is essential, hilarious, profane and profound!!!!! She is my drug.” -Margaret Cho Roz Hernandez (she/her) is a transgender comedian based in Los Angeles. In 2023 she starred in an 8 episode tv series on Hulu called “Living for the Dead” with Kristen Stewart. In 2024 New York Magazine’s Vulture named her one of the “Comedians You Should and Will Know”, she was the opening act for Bob the Drag Queen’s US tour, Apple Podcasts named her comedy podcast “Ghosted!” their Pick of The Month, and she was featured in the Netflix documentary about LGBTQ standup called “OUTstanding: A Comedy Revolution”. Roz performs all over the world in comedy venues and as a regular comedian on Atlantis Gay Cruises. In 2025 Queerty nominated her for their comedian of the year category at their annual award show. RozHernandezTour.com “I toured with Roz and I could say a lot about her, but I'll just say that she is hilarious. I won't comment on her personality. “ -Bob The Drag Queen -All tickets include a free meet and greet after the show with Roz, exclusive merch available. -THERE IS NO VIDEO OR AUDIO RECORDING ALLOWED DURING THE PERFORMANCE. -No children allowed. -No assholes allowed. -Any venue specific questions, please contact the venue directly by phone/email. -Since this venue is known for it's fabulous drag shows, Roz wants to honor the environment by accepting cash tips during her performance. -Doors at 7 pm, show at 8 pm. Information Source: Roz Hernandez America Tour 2025 | eventbrite

The Iowa Hunger Summit convenes food security advocates in efforts to amplify solutions, resource exchange, and multi-stakeholder collaboration for strengthening food systems and improving food security in Iowa. This hybrid event will take place in person at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates in Des Moines, Iowa, and be available online via livestream. The theme of the Summit, From the Ground Up , underscores the importance of nurturing sustainable solutions to food insecurity at every stage of life. Lasting change requires a lifelong commitment to nutrition, from infancy to older adulthood and every moment in between. By engaging in conversations about the root causes of hunger and seeking best practices from around Iowa and the country, we can strengthen the foundation of Iowa’s food systems to support health and well-being across generations. From early childhood development to aging with dignity, ensuring access to nutritious food across the lifespan is essential for building a resilient, food-secure future. Together, from the ground up, we can create communities where every individual, at every life stage, has the opportunity to thrive. Information Source: World Food Prize Foundation | eventbrite

Welcome to Savor Moxie: A Monthly Dinner Affair! Come join us for a night of delicious food and great company at our monthly dinner event. Indulge in a carefully curated menu featuring a variety of dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Date: the 3rd Thursday of each month Time: Doors open at 5:30pm, dinner at 6:30 PM Location: 4119 University Avenue, Des Moines, IA, USA Experience the magic of Savor Moxie as we bring together food lovers from all over to enjoy a unique dining experience. Don't miss out on this opportunity to **savor** incredible flavors and **moxie** vibes! Information Source: Moxie Kitchen + Events | eventbrite

ALL IN Lavish x Collective presents: The Night You’ll Never Forget. Step into the spotlight on July 19th, where red carpet dreams meet underground energy. You’re met with exotic whips, flash-ready photo ops, and pulse-racing strobe-lit scenes when you arrive. This isn’t just an event—it’s a statement. Choose your playground: Upstairs, step into a luxe creative wonderland—craft custom charms, get glammed with lashes and nails, or ink your vibe with live tattoo artists. Downstairs? Welcome to the Nitro Cave —a high-voltage lounge with whiskey tastings, barbers delivering razor-sharp cuts, immersive games, including a sports bar, and live art exploding in real time. Fuel up on loaded nachos, curated wine, and bold mocktails. When the clock strikes late, the VIP After-Hours unlock: cigars, rare whiskey pours, and elite photo experiences that belong on the 'Gram and beyond. This isn’t just a party. It’s a full-sensory takeover. All motion. All luxury. All style. Don’t just pull up— arrive like you own the night. , Information Source: LAVISH | eventbrite

Summer is better with good food and good people! Join us for Lary's Summer BBQ on July 20,2025, at Easter Lake Park Shelter #2! Enjoy delicious grilled meats, authentic African dishes, fresh drinks and fun, relaxed vibe. Your $35 ticket includes a full BBQ plate and a drink. Come celebrate summer with friends and family! Coming solo?? No worries - you'll meet awesome people there! Limited spots available - book yours now! Information Source: hilary | eventbrite

You’re invited to an elegant evening of celebration—the Summer Gala at the Hall of Laureates —a night designed to dazzle. Set against the stunning backdrop of one of Des Moines’ most iconic and historic venues, this event will be an evening of celebration, connection and summer magic. From 7 to 10 p.m., guests will enjoy complimentary appetizers, lively entertainment and plenty of time on the dance floor. Whether you're coming solo or with a partner, expect an unforgettable night of rhythm, laughter and good company. The ambiance will be vibrant yet sophisticated—perfect for anyone who wants to toast summer in style. Looking for something a little extra? VIP guests will gain early access starting at 6 p.m. to enjoy an exclusive pre-event hour filled with curated appetizers, specialty drinks and intimate entertainment—all in a more relaxed, luxurious setting before the Gala opens to the full crowd. VIP hour includes: Comedy Show “Being Midwestern” by Donald Gee Musical Entertainment by Donald Gee Iowa Brewed Beer Provided by Reclaimed Rails Tickets $65 — Single Ticket $100 — Couple Ticket $125 — VIP Single Ticket (6–10 p.m.) $200 — VIP Couple Ticket (6–10 p.m.) Dress code: Formal attire encouraged. This is your moment to dress up, hit the dance floor and enjoy a glamorous night out in one of the city’s most renowned spaces. Let the music move you, the flavors delight you and the atmosphere inspire you. We can’t wait to welcome you on Saturday, July 26 for a truly special summer evening at the Hall of Laureates. Information Source: The Hall of Laureates | eventbrite

Join us for a full day to discover how the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Regulatory Program is leveraging innovation and streamlining processes to support mission success. This workshop brings together Regulatory experts, as well as federal, state, and local partners and industry consultants, to share insights, network, and learn about the latest Regulatory policies, updates, and best practices. This workshop will cover information on A+ Applications, the Regulatory Request System (RRS), Jurisdictional Determinations, Mitigation strategies and more. Information Source: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers | eventbrite

VIP & General Admission Tickets can be bought at the door. Tickets DO NOT sell out. This is an opportunity to talk directly to reptile business in your area! There will be thousands of reptiles, amphibians, feeders, invertebrates, supplies and more available to the public. Bring your kids, and explore the show. Did we mention there will also be a huge variety of supplies including cages, tanks, bedding, toys, and decorative items. Please note: We only host the events for the community. All vendors accept Credit Cards & Cash. There is an ATM on site if needed. All our vendors are required to follow federal, state, county and city laws in regards to what they sell or show at our events. Information Source: Cold Blooded Expos | eventbrite

Ready to survive? Zombie Scavengers plunges participants into a high-stakes, app-powered scavenger hunt, transforming familiar Des Moines city streets into a virtual, thrilling, post-apocalyptic battleground. Teams embark on a mission to survive by using their smartphone to navigate the city that is virtually turned into a post-apocalyptic wasteland. Teams must complete tricky challenges, solve riddles, and gather (take photos of) essential supplies to stave off the virtual undead horde roaming the city. Each mission the teams complete will earn them points on the app’s leaderboard where they can see how they have done compared to other surivival teams. Players must communicate and strategize as they work together to find essential items around the city that they need to survive. Zombie Scavengers is a dynamic and engaging activity that tests problem-solving skills, teamwork, and a healthy dose of survival instinct, making it a unique and memorable adventure through the streets of Des Moines. Zombie Scavengers is priced per team. You can have up to 10 players per team. Each ticket gives one team access to participate in Zombie Scavengers. After ticket purchase, Zombie Scavengers requires a redemption made on the website. Redemption can be made at https://www.zombiescavengers.com/reservations In addition to the Des Moines scavenger hunt, Zombie Scavengers has over 400 locations all over North America. Participants can choose where they’d like to participate when they redeem their ticket on the website. See locations at https://www.zombiescavengers.com/locations . Locations include most major cities in the US & Canada. Information Source: Zombie Scavengers - Zombie Survival Scavenger Hunt | eventbrite

Join us for the Des Moines Premiere of “Last Stop” a new short film from ATIQ. The show will consist of a screening of the full short film, plus drag performances from Domita Sanchez, Loretta Stone, and Robin Graves. Hosted by the incomparable Brandonna Dupri LaReese! Doors & DJ at 7:00, Show at 7:30 Learn more about ATIQ here: https://intheatiq.com/ Subscribe to their newsletter: https://intheatiq.substack.com/ ✅ No cover and food is served until closing! ℹ️ For a menu and full list of upcoming events, head on over to www.grdn.com! Information Source: The Garden | eventbrite

Event Timing/Location: July 11, 2024 11:00 - 11:30 -- Network with top leaders in innovation 1 1:30 - 1:00 pm -- Lunch, unveiling, and panel event Des Moines Heritage Center 120 E 5th Street Des Moines, IA 50309 Official description: Innovation is visible in all corners of the state and in every industry. It is necessary for the success of our economy. For it to thrive, communities, companies, entrepreneurs and stakeholders in education and risk capital circles statewide must continuously adapt to quickly changing technology and the overall business climate. Save the date for a panel discussion that explores the innovation ecosystem and dives into the status of innovation in Iowa, where the state is headed and what work can help keep the state moving forward. Also, get your copy of the 2025 innovationIOWA Magazine and help honor this year’s EO Iowa innovationENTREPRENEUR and innovationLEADER award winners. Key questions: Panelists: As a media company, we believe our products should mirror our community both in the ways we celebrate diversity and in the way we facilitate meaningful conversations about equity. We understand this is essential to supporting a strong and growing community. In registering for this event, you agree to the Privacy Policy of Business Publications Corporation (BPC) as disclosed on our website, and as it might be amended from time to time, and to sharing and disclosure of registration data and information to the event sponsors for their use. Information Source: Business Publications Corporation | eventbrite

Event Timing/Location: July 11, 2024 11:00 - 11:30 -- Network with top leaders in innovation 1 1:30 - 1:00 pm -- Lunch, unveiling, and panel event Des Moines Heritage Center 120 E 5th Street Des Moines, IA 50309 Official description: Innovation is visible in all corners of the state and in every industry. It is necessary for the success of our economy. For it to thrive, communities, companies, entrepreneurs and stakeholders in education and risk capital circles statewide must continuously adapt to quickly changing technology and the overall business climate. Save the date for a panel discussion that explores the innovation ecosystem and dives into the status of innovation in Iowa, where the state is headed and what work can help keep the state moving forward. Also, get your copy of the 2025 innovationIOWA Magazine and help honor this year’s EO Iowa innovationENTREPRENEUR and innovationLEADER award winners. Key questions: Panelists: As a media company, we believe our products should mirror our community both in the ways we celebrate diversity and in the way we facilitate meaningful conversations about equity. We understand this is essential to supporting a strong and growing community. In registering for this event, you agree to the Privacy Policy of Business Publications Corporation (BPC) as disclosed on our website, and as it might be amended from time to time, and to sharing and disclosure of registration data and information to the event sponsors for their use. Information Source: Business Publications Corporation | eventbrite

Set a Goal today for a 5K, 10K, or 13.1 Half-Marathon with a Virtual Run where you can run Stress-Free anywhere, anytime and submit your results. When you finish your run, you'll get a limited time Free Invite into one of our local Running Clubs near you! Sign-up to run or walk, but also join the journey of thousands of others near you who want to live a healthier life through running (or walking!). Intro to your Virtual Run: https://youtube.com/shorts/YfBqrej80T4?si=RkSl61EB95jnQ6on Step 1: Choose a Time and Place to run! Step 2: Get your Virtual Packet Step 3: When you finish, you can submit your results. What You Get with our Virtual Run: Virtual Packet with Digital Tools (Music Playlist, Training Plans, Online Results) Certificate of Completion Invitation to Join our Strava Run Clubs Our Run Clubs will also have special events, free giveaways, and a Community of other runners to support your run journey. You can Add-On: Commemorative Shirt + Medal We look forward to greeting you at the virtual finish line! Information Source: The Best Races | eventbrite

The ride begins and ends at the Iowa Taproom. Contests for best decorated helmet and costumes (both team or individual) will be awarded prizes. A short program will start at 9:00 PM and then the riders will be sent on their way, cycling approximately ten miles throughout downtown Des Moines. Information Source: Orchard Place | eventbrite

Set a Goal today for a 5K, 10K, or 13.1 Half-Marathon with a Virtual Run where you can run Stress-Free anywhere, anytime and submit your results. When you finish your run, you'll get a limited time Free Invite into one of our local Running Clubs near you! Sign-up to run or walk, but also join the journey of thousands of others near you who want to live a healthier life through running (or walking!). Intro to your Virtual Run: https://youtube.com/shorts/YfBqrej80T4?si=RkSl61EB95jnQ6on Step 1: Choose a Time and Place to run! Step 2: Get your Virtual Packet Step 3: When you finish, you can submit your results. What You Get with our Virtual Run: Virtual Packet with Digital Tools (Music Playlist, Training Plans, Online Results)Certificate of CompletionInvitation to Join our Strava Run ClubsOur Run Clubs will also have special events, free giveaways, and a Community of other runners to support your run journey. You can Add-On: Commemorative Shirt + MedalWe look forward to greeting you at the virtual finish line! Information Source: The Best Races | eventbrite