DES MOINES, Iowa — It's almost Memorial Day Weekend, the unofficial start of summer. If you're not on the road traveling, make the most of your weekend by exploring everything Des Moines has to offer.
Local 5 rounded up five events taking place in Des Moines this weekend to kick off your busy summer.
Have an event you want featured in Local 5's Weekend Guide? Text us at 515-457-1026 or email us at news@weareiowa.com.
- When: Friday, May 24 and Saturday, May 25, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
- Where: Western Gateway Park (1205 Locust St., Des Moines)
- Price: Free to attend
Celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month at Iowa's largest Asian American event. This festival showcases authentic food, exhibits and entertainment from countries across Asia.
Bring the whole family out to Western Gateway Park for this diverse, cultural celebration.
- When: Friday, May 24 at 7 p.m., Saturday, May 25 at 6 p.m. and Sunday, May 26 at 1 p.m.
- Where: Principal Park (1 Line Dr., Des Moines)
- Price: Tickets start at $11
Nothing says "summer" like a baseball game. This week, the Iowa Cubs face the Indianapolis Indians in a series of four games, three of which fall over the weekend. As always, Friday's game attendees can see fireworks after the game.
- When: Saturday, May 25, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Where: Union Park (1801 Pennsylvania Ave., Des Moines)
- Price: Rides are $0.50 for kids, $1 for adults
Both kids and adults can enjoy the magic and joy of Des Moines' Heritage Carousel at Union Park. This year, opening day for the carousel will also feature the dedication of a new historical exhibit along the walkway.
If you plan on visiting the Heritage Carousel all summer, you can purchase a season pass here.
- When: Saturday, May 25 at 7 p.m.
- Where: Lauridsen Amphitheater (2251 George Flagg Pkwy, Des Moines)
- Price: Tickets start at $49.50
It seems Willie Nelson & Family can't get enough of Des Moines, because the group is returning for the second summer in a row. Nelson is a legendary singer-songwriter billed as one of the most famous country music artists of all time.
This all-ages concert will feature his greatest hits. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
- When: Saturday, May 25, 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday, May 26, 1-5 p.m. and Monday, May 27, 1-6:30 p.m.
- Where: Northwest Family Aquatic Center (4915 Madison Ave., Des Moines)
- Price: $3 for kids 3-18, $5 for adults
While most of Des Moines' pools don't open until June 1, you can dip your toe into summer at the Northwest Aquatic Center a little earlier. The center will open for the season with special hours this Memorial Day weekend.
Note: Temperatures are expected to be in the low-to-mid 70s, with a possibility of rain Saturday night into Sunday and Monday. Find updates on pool openings and closures here.
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