Kids Events in Des Moines, IA

Willis Broadway Series production

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Want to introduce your child to live theater with a twist? Clue: High School Edition at Stoner Theater in Des Moines, presented by Des Moines Young Artists' Theatre, brings the beloved mystery game to life on stage. This clever, fast-paced production combines comedy and suspense, making it an exciting introduction to theater for families.

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Celebrate spring with an unforgettable Spring Tea at Salisbury House & Gardens in West Des Moines. Held on Saturday, May 2nd, this seasonal tradition offers a refined afternoon of tea, treats, and elegant conversation in one of Iowa's most picturesque historic settings. Perfect for parents looking for a sophisticated outing, a special mother-daughter occasion, or quality time with loved ones.

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Ready for a musical adventure that celebrates storytelling and rhythm? David Gonzalez with Daniel Kelly Aesop Bops! at Temple Theater in Des Moines offers a dynamic, interactive performance perfect for families who love music and classic tales. This Wellmark Family Series show combines live performance with educational fun that kids will remember long after the curtain falls.

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Interactive choir performance

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Looking to introduce your child to the elegance and artistry of ballet? Ballet Des Moines Cinderella at Des Moines Civic Center brings this timeless fairy tale to life with beautiful costumes, graceful dancers, and enchanting music. This stunning professional performance is the perfect first ballet experience for kids who love magic, music, and movement.

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Ready to introduce your kids to the totally tubular music and culture of the 1980s? The 80's Kids event is coming to xBk Live in Urbandale, IA on Saturday, May 23, 2026, offering a nostalgic experience the whole family can enjoy together. This isn't just a concert,it's a chance for your children to step into a decade of neon colors, iconic music, and fun pop culture moments while you relive some personal favorites. Expect interactive entertainment, engaging performances, and plenty of photo opportunities that'll have everyone smiling.

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Ready for one of the biggest summer celebrations in the Des Moines area? Governors Days at Grimes South Sports Complex (750 S James St, Grimes, IA) is a grand festival that takes over the heart of Grimes, Iowa with activities, entertainment, and family fun all summer long. This is the event where memories are made and the whole community comes together to celebrate!

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Ready for an elegant afternoon that combines relaxation with community spirit? The Garden Party at Salisbury House & Gardens in West Des Moines, IA is the perfect refined escape where adults can enjoy live music, play croquet, and dine outdoors in one of Iowa's most beautiful historic gardens. This annual signature fundraiser blends sophistication with summer charm.

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Is your first or second grader eager to explore the magic of theater? Summer Camp Theater in a Box at Des Moines Civic Center in Des Moines, IA delivers a week-long introduction to performance for grades 1-3 with two schedule options to choose from (June 15-19 or June 22-26, 2026). Kids will gain confidence, creative expression, and new friendships while discovering the joy of collaborative storytelling.

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Looking for a fun introduction to theater for your early elementary student? Theater in a Box at Des Moines Civic Center in Des Moines, IA is a one-week summer camp for grades 1-3 that brings stories to life through creative games, basic staging, and ensemble performance. Choose between two convenient session options (June 15-19 or June 22-26, 2026) to fit your family's schedule.

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Want to give your child a comprehensive summer theater experience? Summer Camp Musical Theater Camp at Temple Theater in Des Moines, IA provides six weeks of intensive training for grades 3-8 from June 15 through July 31, 2026. Students will explore singing, dancing, acting, and scene work while building ensemble skills and stage confidence.

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Ready to help your child shine on stage this summer? Musical Theater Camp at Temple Theater in Des Moines, IA offers six weeks of creative performance training for grades 3-8, with sessions running June 15 through July 31, 2026. Your young performer will develop confidence, stage presence, and musical skills while working with experienced instructors in a supportive ensemble environment.

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Let your creative kids dive into four magical days of art-making fun! *UNICORN MAGIC!* Full 4-Day Kids Camp at Painting with a Twist, 3753 86th St in Urbandale, IA, starts Monday, June 15, 2026, and offers an immersive, imaginative camp experience. Your kids will create keepsakes, build confidence, and make memories with new friends in a supportive, artistic environment.

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Does your teen want an intensive Broadway-level theater experience this summer? Summer Camp Broadway Intensive at Des Moines Civic Center in Des Moines, IA welcomes grades 9 through students entering college for advanced training beginning July 12, 2026. Your young performer will work with experienced instructors to refine vocal skills, stage technique, and professional theater practices.

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Looking for a summer theater program that challenges your middle schooler? Summer Camp Broadway Academy at Des Moines Civic Center in Des Moines, IA offers grades 6-8 an exciting dive into Broadway-style performance starting July 12, 2026. Participants will develop advanced performance skills, stage presence, and lasting friendships in a collaborative creative environment.

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Is your middle schooler ready for a more advanced theater experience? Broadway Academy at Des Moines Civic Center in Des Moines, IA is a summer workshop for grades 6-8 that immerses students in Broadway-style performance and stagecraft beginning July 12, 2026. Your student will learn from passionate instructors while collaborating with peers who share their love of musical theater.

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Ready to help your high schooler pursue serious theater training? Broadway Intensive at Des Moines Civic Center in Des Moines, IA is an advanced summer workshop for grades 9 through students entering college, beginning July 12, 2026. This program offers rigorous vocal, dance, and acting training with a focus on Broadway-caliber performance for aspiring theater artists.

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Looking for a culturally enriching evening under the stars? Shakespeare on the Lawn: Measure for Measure at Salisbury House & Gardens in West Des Moines, IA, brings the Bard's timeless comedy to life on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. This outdoor theater experience is perfect for introducing older kids to Shakespeare in an accessible, family-friendly setting where beautiful historic gardens create the ideal backdrop for this classic tale of justice and redemption.

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Bring your family to experience a contemporary musical classic! Rent: School Edition, presented by Des Moines Young Artists' Theatre at Stoner Theater in Des Moines, IA, is a dynamic stage production performing July 23, 2026. This school-adapted version captures the original's raw energy and meaningful themes while remaining appropriate and accessible for teen and family audiences.

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Beat the summer heat with a charming Summer Tea at Salisbury House & Gardens in West Des Moines on Saturday, August 1st. Enjoy refreshing beverages, elegant finger foods, and warm company in the stunning garden setting of this West Des Moines gem. It's an ideal way for parents to experience a peaceful, refined afternoon away from the hustle and bustle.

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Get into the Halloween spirit with the spooky-fun Ghoulish Gala at Salisbury House & Gardens in West Des Moines on Saturday, October 17th. This atmospheric seasonal event transforms the historic mansion into a hauntingly elegant celebration perfect for parents seeking a festive, family-friendly Halloween experience. Expect creative decorations, special refreshments, and plenty of ghoulish charm in a memorable setting.

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Willis Broadway Series production

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Calling all mystery lovers! The Murder Mystery Dinner at Salisbury House & Gardens in West Des Moines on Friday, November 13th promises an evening of intrigue, interactive fun, and delicious food. Perfect for parents seeking a date night with a twist, this immersive event invites guests to become part of the story while enjoying dinner in the elegantly historic setting. Prepare for laughter, surprises, and unforgettable memories.

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Willis Broadway Series production

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Discover holiday magic at Spirits & Sparkles, a festive evening at Salisbury House & Gardens in West Des Moines on Friday, December 4th. This enchanting winter celebration combines seasonal ambiance, elegant refreshments, and the warmth of community in a beautifully decorated historic venue. Parents will love this sophisticated holiday outing that captures the joy and sparkle of the season.

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Transform your Saturday into a festive celebration of the season at Holly & Ivy, a delightful holiday event at Salisbury House & Gardens in West Des Moines, IA, on December 5, 2026. Families will enjoy seasonal decorations, holiday traditions, and the charm of the historic mansion dressed for Christmas,making it the perfect outing to kick off your family's holiday festivities. Whether it's your first time or a cherished annual tradition, this event captures the warmth and joy of the season.

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Gather your family for an unforgettable holiday musical experience at the Holiday Concert, held at the elegant Salisbury House & Gardens in West Des Moines, IA, on Sunday, December 6, 2026. This festive concert brings together beautiful performances and holiday spirit in one of Iowa's most charming historic venues,a wonderful way to celebrate the season with kids and create lasting memories. Prepare for an evening of music, magic, and holiday cheer that will get everyone in the Christmas mood.

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Make holiday memories with a beloved theatrical classic! A Christmas Carol, presented by Iowa Stage Theatre Company at Stoner Theater in Des Moines, IA, brings Dickens' timeless tale to life on December 10, 2026. This cherished production captures the magic and heart of the season, perfect for families seeking festive entertainment together.

via Des Moines Performing Arts - Family Series

Experience holiday elegance at Holiday Tea at the Castle, the festive seasonal tradition at Salisbury House & Gardens in West Des Moines on Saturday, December 12th. This charming winter tea brings together refined refreshments, warm hospitality, and the timeless beauty of the historic mansion dressed in holiday splendor. It's a perfect opportunity for parents to create lasting memories with family and friends during the most wonderful time of year.

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Willis Broadway Series production

via Des Moines Performing Arts

Willis Broadway Series production

via Des Moines Performing Arts