Autumn Festivities Abound: A Guide to Celebrating the Season in Central Iowa

As the crisp autumn air settles in, central Iowa communities are gearing up for a vibrant array of seasonal events and activities. From outdoor movie screenings to haunted church tours, pumpkin painting to car shows, this region is brimming with opportunities to embrace the spirit of fall. Whether you're seeking family-friendly fun or a chance to immerse yourself in local culture, this comprehensive guide will lead you through the diverse array of autumnal celebrations unfolding across the area.

Embrace the Spooky Season with Haunting Delights

Movie in the Park: "Hocus Pocus" Under the Stars

Waukee Park's and Rec invites you to kick off the Halloween season with a free outdoor screening of the beloved classic "Hocus Pocus" on Friday, October 4th. Gather your friends, family, and a cozy blanket or chair, and settle in as the film comes to life on the big screen under the stars at Centennial Park, starting at dusk around 6:30 p.m. For those who arrive early, the Paint-a-Pumpkin event hosted by Snappy's Stick Fire BBQ promises an additional dose of festive fun.

Bouton's Haunted Church: A Spine-Tingling Experience

Venture to the historic town of Bouton on October 4th and 5th, where the Bouton Fire & Rescue department will be hosting its annual Haunted Church event. Brave the eerie atmosphere and uncover the secrets lurking within the hallowed halls, with admission priced at $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. All proceeds from this thrilling experience will go towards supporting the department's essential gear and equipment needs, as well as the addition of a third bay.

Breakfast and Boos: A Delicious Start to the Day

After a night of spooky adventures, refuel with a hearty breakfast at the Bouton Community Center on October 5th. Indulge in all-you-can-eat pancakes, eggs, sausage, ham, biscuits and gravy, hash browns, toast, and a selection of beverages, all for the affordable price of $9 for adults, $5 for children aged 5-12, and free for kids under five. Mark your calendars for the next community breakfasts on November 2nd and December 7th.

Keeping Warm with Coats of Kindness

As the temperatures begin to drop, the First Christian Church in Perry is hosting its second annual Operation Warm Coat event on October 5th and 12th. Over 200 new coats will be given away on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of one coat per person per weekend. This initiative aims to ensure that no one in the community is left out in the cold.

Remembering the Littlest Angels

On October 5th, the Kinnick-Riverside Park in Adel will be the setting for the 15th John's Baby Steps 5K Run and Memory Walk. This poignant event, which also includes a Kids Fun Run, is dedicated to preventing infant and young child loss, one baby step at a time. The Angel Presentation will precede the race, which starts at 8:15 a.m. after packet pick-up and registration from 6:30-7:50 a.m.

Cruising into Autumn with Classic Cars

Gear up for a day of automotive admiration at the PerryDice Cruizers Car Show on October 5th. Held on Second Street and Willis Avenue in downtown Perry, this free-to-enter event welcomes all cars, trucks, and motorcycles. 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.

Wauktoberfest: A Celebration of German Heritage

The Waukee Area Historical Society invites you to immerse yourself in the lively sounds, traditional dances, and festive competitions of the 3rd Annual Wauktoberfest on October 5th. This nonprofit fundraiser, held at the Waukee Downtown Triangle, supports the society's mission to educate and share the rich history and cultural roots of the Waukee community.

Pork Loin Supper: A Hearty Community Gathering

Head to the Washington Township School, located south of Perry, on October 5th for a delectable Pork Loin Supper. Indulge in a menu featuring pork loin, cheesy potatoes, fancy green beans, rolls, and desserts, all while supporting the maintenance and utilities of this former school-turned-community center. Carryout options are available, and a free-will donation will be accepted.

Woodward Social Center Luncheon: A Midday Respite

On October 7th, the Woodward Social Center will be serving up a luncheon featuring beef burgers, cheesy potatoes, baked beans, coleslaw, and desserts. This midday meal, available for a free-will offering, provides a welcoming opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy a delicious break from the day's activities.

Exploring the Future of Dallas County's Courts

As Dallas County residents prepare to vote on a $56.9 million bond referendum for a new criminal court building, the county attorney, Jeannine Ritchie, has announced a series of community meetings to discuss the proposed project. Scheduled from October 8th to 29th, these informative sessions will address the critical needs related to court function, security, technology, efficiency, and accessibility, while also preserving the historic character of the existing courthouse.

A Free Community Supper at Heartland Church of Christ

On the second Wednesday of every month, the Heartland Church of Christ in Perry opens its doors to the community for a free supper. Mark your calendars for October 9th and join your neighbors for this no-charge dining experience, whether you choose to dine in or carry out. The church's handicap-accessible facility ensures that all are welcome to enjoy a night off from cooking.

Veteran's Health Services on Wheels

On October 10th, the Perry Elks Lodge will host a Veterans Health Administration Mobile Clinic, providing a range of services to our nation's heroes. From flu and COVID-19 shots to primary care, mental health support, and more, this mobile clinic offers a convenient way for veterans to access essential healthcare. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 515-401-5452.

Crafting Seasonal Wreaths with Bouquets by Beth

Get creative and embrace the autumn aesthetic by joining a wreath-making class at the Woodward Public Library on October 11th. Led by the talented Bouquets by Beth, this hands-on workshop will guide participants through the process of crafting their own unique seasonal wreaths. Spots are limited, so be sure to register at the library by calling 515-438-2636.

Sip and Shop Your Way Through Perry

On October 11th, Perry businesses are inviting the community to an after-hours shopping experience during the October Sip & Shop event. Stroll through local shops, discover fall apparel, décor, and gifts, all while sipping on complimentary refreshments. This festive evening promises to be a delightful way to support small businesses and indulge in some retail therapy.

Coats for the Community: Dallas County Coat Giveaway

As the colder months approach, the Dallas County Coat Giveaway on October 12th aims to ensure that no one is left out in the cold. Hosted at the Adel First Christian Church, this event will distribute over 300 new coats and 100 gently used coats, ranging in size from infant to adult. In addition to the coat distribution, the Clothes Closet will also be open, providing a variety of essential clothing items free of charge.

Fall Market: A Seasonal Shopping Celebration

The Perry Farmers Market is bringing its annual Fall Market pop-up to the McCreary Community Building on October 12th. Reconnect with your favorite summer vendors and discover new local purveyors offering a bounty of seasonal goodies and more. This vibrant marketplace promises to be a delightful way to embrace the autumnal spirit and support the local community.

Grimes Fall Festival and Candy Crawl

Families in Grimes are invited to the South Sports Complex on October 12th for the annual Fall Festival, co-hosted by the Grimes Parks and Recreation and the Polk County Sheriff's Office. This event will be packed with fun activities, food trucks, local vendors, games, bouncy houses, and the ever-popular Candy Crawl. Costumes are highly encouraged, so come dressed in your best fall-themed attire.

A Hearty Beef and Noodle Dinner in Dexter

On October 13th, the Dexter United Methodist Church is opening its doors to the community for a delectable Beef and Noodle Dinner. Indulge in a menu featuring mashed potatoes, salad, and pie, with the option to dine in, carry out, or pick up curbside. A free-will offering will be accepted, and the facility is handicap-accessible, making it a welcoming gathering for all.