As the temperature drops and the leaves change color, the air becomes crisp and the sky turns a brilliant shade of blue. It’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in a fall festival. Don’t miss out on the arts and crafts, hayrides, and other fun activities happening all fall in and around Des Moines.
Fall Festivals in + around Des Moines
Beaverdale Fall Festival | downtown Beaverdale
Sept 20, 21
The parade down Beaver Ave on Saturday morning is a highlight of the festival as well as carnival rides and live entertainment.
Living History Farms Applefest
Sept 14, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Celebrate the apple harvest at this fun family event. Advance ticket purchase is recommended.
Flower Festival | Deal’s Orchard Jefferson, Iowa
Sept 14
Spend the afternoon enjoying live music, zinnias, and sunflowers.
Latino Heritage Festival | Western Gateway Park
Sept 21, 22
Enjoy Latin music, food, performances, cultural booths, and kid activities.
Illumifest | West Des Moines City Campus
Sept 14, 4 pm to 9 pm
Come out for free inflatables, face painting, tethered hot air balloon rides, and more.
Hello Fall Festival | Captain Roys
September 22
A wonderful selection of local vendors, fall drinks, fall food, and overall fall vibes.
Oktoberfest | Downtown Des Moines
September 27, 28
The annual Oktoberfest returns to Des Moines with all the favorite celebrations including a huge selection of German and craft beers, delicious German food, live music, competitions, a Silent Disco, and much more.
Apple & Pumpkin Fest at Wills Family Orchard | Adel
Weekends from Sept 14 – Oct 20
Saturday: 9 am – 6 pm
Sunday: Noon – 6 pm
Festivities include u-pick apples, u-pick pumpkins, gourds, beautiful mums, apple cider, cider donuts, orchard-fresh food, and farm activities for all ages.
Fall Fest | Polk City Town Square
Oct 12, 2 pm to 6 pm
Activities include pumpkin painting, face painting, inflatables, train rides, character appearances, and more.
Middlebrook Farm Fall Fest | Cumming, Iowa
Oct 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Don’t miss a farmers market, food trucks, music, and fun.
Madison County Covered Bridge Festival
Oct 12, 13
Take a tour of covered bridges, walk through the square, car show, kid zone, live entertainment, and more.
Admission: $3, or 2 for $5 (FREE for children under 11)
