Special Events


Des Moines Parks and Recreation provides a variety of special events that allow community members to participate in safe and organized leisure activities in an outdoor setting, recreation center or other locations throughout Des Moines. Most of these events have a minimal cost or are free.
Take a peek at the events below and discover ways to get involved!
Can't seem to find what you're looking for? Email events@dmgov.org.
Special Events
Des Moines Parks and Recreation is excited to continue the virtual fitness fun with 31 Miles Your Way and More. This time we are turning it up a notch, and you can set a goal to complete a 50K (31 miles), 100K (62 miles) or 150K (93 miles). We invite you to complete 31 miles your way and more in 31 days.
Cost: $10 per person
Ages: 5 and Up
All you have to do is register, complete 31 miles your way (or more), and track it! You can walk, run, bike, swim, stroll, sprint or crawl your way to victory. The challenge will run from May 1 - 31, 2022. Once you've completed at least 31 miles, all you need to do is complete the steps below.
- Click on the DOWNLOAD MILEAGE TRACKING FORM button below.
- Track and complete the mileage tracking form (fillable PDF).*
- Save the final PDF and send to events@dmgov.org.
- A Des Moines Parks and Recreation team member will review the form and confirm your registration.
- A comfy t-shirt will be mailed to you in June!
Recommendations on where to complete your mileage: Central Iowa Trails, Des Moines Nature Trails, Community Recreation Centers, Disc Golf, and Golf .

*Please note that t-shirts are unisex.
Adult sizes available: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL, XXXXL
Youth sizes available: S, M, L, XL
Questions? Contact us at events@dmgov.org.
Des Moines Parks and Recreation invites you to start off your Saturday with free yoga at Gray's Lake Park. Join us every week from June 4 - September 24 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. for free classes led by volunteers from around the Des Moines Metro. These classes are perfect for all skill levels, from curious beginner to advanced yogi.
IMPORTANT: Yoga on June 11 and June 25 will be taking place outside Pioneer Columbus Community Recreation Center.
Please note: Classes will not take place in the event of rain. Please text DSMEVENTS to 84483 to sign up for text alerts regarding weather.
2022 Free Flicks
For all the details, visit the event-specific page: 2022 Free Flicks
Free Flicks is a Friday night series throughout the summer of outdoor movies in neighborhood parks. The films will be shown on a 25-foot portable screen and begin after sunset. Admission is free for all. Blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged. Movies will not take place in the event of rain. Watch our Facebook and Twitter for updates.
Mark your calendars, arrange the baby sitters, and rally your friends!
Adult Recess is a 21+ only FREE event that allows adults to be kids for a night. There will be nostalgic playground/tailgate games, a live band, food and beverage specials, and so much more.
Date: Friday, July 29, 2022
Time: 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Location: Captain Roy's
Cost: Free (Pre-registration is required.)
Pre-register here: Adult Recess