Celebrating Community Spirit: A Vibrant Calendar of Events in Central Iowa

Central Iowa is abuzz with a diverse array of community events this fall, offering something for everyone. From live music and car shows to blood drives and paranormal festivals, the region is alive with opportunities to connect, celebrate, and give back. This comprehensive guide highlights the must-attend happenings that are sure to create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds within these thriving local communities.

Discover the Rhythm of Community Engagement

Rock Around the Clock Concert Series

Residents of Grimes and the surrounding areas are in for a musical treat this September, as the city hosts the Rock Around the Clock Concert Series. Taking place every Thursday from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Heritage Park, this lively event features five local bands showcasing their talents. But the concert series is more than just a celebration of music – it's also a chance to support the local community. Attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item or a monetary donation to benefit the Grimes Storehouse food pantry, ensuring that families in need receive the assistance they require. On September 19, the stage will be graced by the soulful sounds of Brother Tucker, while Damon Dotson will take the spotlight on September 26.

Perry Community Blood Drive

LifeServe Blood Center is calling on the residents of Perry and the surrounding areas to step up and make a difference this football season. On Friday, September 20, from 12:30 to 5 p.m., a community blood drive will be held at 610 10th Street in Perry. Just like in the game of football, every player counts, and every blood donor can be the MVP their community needs. LifeServe is urgently seeking blood donations to meet the ongoing demand, and this neighborhood blood drive provides a convenient opportunity for locals to contribute to this vital cause. Donors can schedule an appointment online at lifeservebloodcenter.org or by calling 800.287.4903.

Vintage and Made Fair

Antique enthusiasts and lovers of handcrafted goods will converge at the Dallas County Fairgrounds in Adel on Saturday, September 21, for the Vintage and Made Fair. This indoor/outdoor market promises to be a treasure trove of vintage home decor, jewelry, handcrafted items, outdoor accents, and seasonal flora. In addition to the diverse array of vendors, the fair will also feature food trucks, live music, and everything needed to create a vintage and handmade lifestyle. Admission is $10 per person, with children 12 and under admitted for free. Tickets can be purchased online at www.vintageandmadefair.com, and more information can be found on the Vintage & Made Fair Facebook page.

All Wheels Car Show

Gearheads and car enthusiasts will want to mark their calendars for the All Wheels Car Show, hosted by the Perry Elks Lodge No. 407 on Saturday, September 21, starting at 5 p.m. This event, held at the Perry Elks Lodge located at 2823 Willis Avenue, is open to all types of vehicles, from cars and trucks to motorcycles. There is no entry fee, and prizes will be awarded to the top entries. Attendees can enjoy a variety of food and refreshments, including hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, popcorn, and candy. As the evening progresses, the festivities will continue with a drive-in movie screening of the classic "Smoky and the Bandit" at 8:30 p.m., so bring a chair and settle in for a nostalgic cinematic experience.

Perry BSA Pancake Breakfast

On Sunday, September 22, the Perry BSA Troop 127 will be hosting a pancake breakfast at the Perry First United Methodist Church, located at 1100 3rd Street. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the community is invited to enjoy an all-you-can-eat feast of pancakes, bacon, and eggs for just $10 per person, with children 5 and under eating for free. This event not only provides a delicious meal but also supports the local Boy Scouts of America troop, allowing them to continue their valuable work in the community.

Fall Equinox Sunset Celebration

As the seasons change and the autumnal equinox approaches, the Dallas County Conservation Board (DCCB) invites the public to a special celebration at Hanging Rock in Redfield on Sunday, September 22, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Participants will gather at the astronomical clock to witness the sun's descent and reflect on the significance of this celestial transition. Guided by DCCB naturalists, attendees will have the opportunity to sing the sun down and immerse themselves in the beauty and meaning of the fall season.

Art Harvest Tour

Art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike will be captivated by the annual Art Harvest Tour, taking place along the Des Moines River Valley on September 28-29 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This free studio tour showcases the talents of central Iowa's finest artists, allowing visitors to explore their studios and galleries, witness live demonstrations, and discover a wide selection of artwork at great prices. Spanning approximately 90 miles, the tour offers around a dozen stops, with several locations hosting multiple artists. Visitors can plan their journey by visiting the Art on the Prairie website, which provides a comprehensive tour map and additional information.

Cruise Into Bouton Car Show

Gearheads and car enthusiasts will want to head to Bouton Park on Saturday, September 28, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the Cruise Into Bouton Car Show. This free, family-friendly event celebrates the beauty and craftsmanship of cars, trucks, motorcycles, semi-trucks, and tractors. Car show registration is just $15, and motorcycles are welcome to join the festivities. Attendees can bring their lawn chairs and enjoy live music by Jake Schrodt, as well as food and drinks provided by the local bar, Drifters. The event also features a live auction to raise funds for the Crisis Intervention Advocacy Center, supporting local survivors of crime.

Van Meter Visitor Festival

Prepare to be captivated by the unexplained and the paranormal at the Van Meter Visitor Festival on Saturday, September 28, from 12 to 6 p.m. at the Veterans Reception Center. This unique event celebrates the legend of the Van Meter Visitor, an unexplained phenomenon that occurred in the town's history. Professionals from the paranormal field will gather to share their expertise, and attendees can explore vendor booths, attend guest speaker presentations, and even take part in walking tours of the downtown area. General admission is $10 per person over 13 years of age, with children 12 and under admitted for free. A limited number of VIP tickets are available for $20, which include front-row seating, early vendor access, and a walking tour ticket.

Free-Will Dinner in Dallas Center

The Dallas Center Fire Department is inviting the community to a free-will donation dinner on Saturday, September 28, from 5 to 7 p.m. at 1502 Walnut Street. Attendees can enjoy a delicious spread of hamburgers, brats, hot dogs, chips, and baked beans, all while supporting the local fire department. Adding to the festivities, the 12th annual Dallas Center Homebrewers Fest will also be held from 5 to 9 p.m. at Memorial Hall, with proceeds benefiting other local charities.

Hot Beef Sandwich Lunch in Dexter

On Sunday, September 29, the Dexter Methodist Church is hosting a hot beef sandwich lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The menu will feature beef sandwiches, potatoes, gravy, green beans, and a variety of crisps for dessert, all available for a free-will offering. Attendees can choose to dine in, carry out, or opt for curbside pickup by calling 515-250-9012. The church service starts at 9 a.m., and all are welcome to join in the community celebration.

Wall of Witnesses Induction Ceremony

Hometown Heritage, a local organization in Perry, is set to honor a new inductee to the Wall of Witnesses on Wednesday, October 2, at 5 p.m. in the Hotel Pattee ballroom and Soumas Court. Through an open nomination process, this individual has been selected for their tie to Perry, their impact on the area, and their compelling story. The community is invited to attend the induction ceremony and learn more about this remarkable person's contributions to the region. Light refreshments will be served following the program.

Paint-a-Pumpkin and Movie in the Park

Waukee Parks and Recreation is inviting the community to a festive fall event on Friday, October 4, starting at 5 p.m. at Centennial Park. Attendees can pre-order a pumpkin at Waukee.org/Registration by September 30 and then join the parks and recreation department to pick out their pumpkin, paint it, and enjoy some snacks. As the sun sets, the evening will culminate with a free outdoor screening of the classic film "Hocus Pocus."

Bouton's Haunted Church

The members of the Bouton Fire & Rescue are gearing up to host their annual Haunted Church event on Friday and Saturday nights in October, from 7 to 10 p.m. at 109 South Street in Bouton. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under, with all proceeds going towards the department's efforts to purchase new gear and expand their facilities.

PerryDice Cruizers Car Show

Car enthusiasts and families alike are invited to downtown Perry on Saturday, October 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the PerryDice Cruizers Car Show. All types of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles, are welcome to participate, and there is no entry fee. The first 100 participants will receive a commemorative dash plaque, and a free-will donation will be collected to benefit the Raccoon River Pet Rescue. For more information, interested individuals can contact Dean Berkland at 515-491-7228.

Wauktoberfest

The Waukee Area Historical Society is hosting the 3rd Annual Wauktoberfest on Saturday, October 5, from 3 to 9 p.m. at the Waukee Downtown Triangle. This lively celebration of German culture and heritage promises an afternoon filled with the sounds of traditional music, the joy of dancing, and a variety of festival competitions. Wauktoberfest is the historical society's annual fundraiser, with all proceeds supporting its mission to educate, share experiences, and provide free workshops to the community.