Get ready for a fun final weekend of February in Des Moines! We have a great mix of theatrical fun with Winnie-the-Pooh, special workshops like the Girls in Science Festival, and lots of spots to burn off energy indoors before March hits. Don't miss out on these limited-run options this Saturday and Sunday!
See our top picks
I Spy: Black History Month - Authors
Central Library Children's Area
A free, all-day scavenger hunt inside the library to win a prize.
JouJou Des Moines
JouJou Des Moines
A dedicated indoor playspace for children aged 5 and under.
Get Air Des Moines - Toddler Time
Get Air Trampoline Park
Trampoline park access reserved just for jumpers under 46" until 10 AM Sunday.
· February 28
5: Join Pooh Bear and Piglet as they hunt Woozles and search for the North Pole in this theatrical adaptation of A.A. Milne's first book. Shows are running both Saturday and Sunday afternoons, making it a perfect family outing.It's running all weekend, offering classic stories that are great for all ages, especially younger kids.
: Catch the touring production based on the classic novel about the Greasers and Socs in 1967 Tulsa. This is the final performance weekend, closing Sunday, March 1st.This is the final weekend for this Broadway series show.
: It's a whole day dedicated to discovery and learning for girls and their families at the Science Center of Iowa. A great way to spark curiosity in STEM fields.A special one-day festival focused specifically on encouraging young girls in science.
: Visit the zoo and then take a break in the Play + Do area where kids can get creative and burn off energy. This special feature is running Friday through Monday this weekend.It provides a structured, creative break included with a zoo visit, which is great for kids who need downtime.
POKÉDEX SCAVENGER HUNTFREE : The Des Moines Public Library is celebrating the 30th anniversary of Pokémon with a systemwide scavenger hunt. This is the last day to participate in the hunt and try to become a Pokémon master!It's the final day for this system-wide event, great for a library pit stop.
· March 1
2COOKIES AND CULTUREALLFREE : Spend an hour learning about world cultures from an ambassador, complete with cookies! This recurring Sunday event is welcoming to all ages.It's a free, educational, and welcoming Sunday afternoon activity.
SENSORY SPACES: ARL THERAPETSFREE : The library is offering a sensory-friendly environment where patrons can meet the Animal Rescue League's TheraPets. Great for younger kids or those who prefer a calmer environment.It offers a unique, calm environment to interact with therapy animals on Sunday.
Also On· anytime this weekend
5: This special time opens the trampoline park exclusively for little jumpers under 46 inches and their parents. It's the perfect chance for toddlers to safely burn off energy and network with other parents.It's a dedicated time slot just for the littlest jumpers on Sunday morning.
: This is a Montessori-inspired indoor playspace designed specifically for children aged five and under. It's the perfect spot for your littlest ones to explore movement and curiosity indoors.Perfect indoor option dedicated entirely to infants through age 5.
: If the weather allows, get outside and explore the trails near Granger. The Nature Center is open Saturday until 4 PM, and Sunday until 4 PM, offering a great mix of indoor space and outdoor exploration.It's a great blend of indoor space (nature center) and outdoor exploration available all weekend.
: Enjoy a warm Sunday afternoon at the Botanical Garden listening to local blues music—perfect for a relaxed family vibe. This is running every Sunday.It's a relaxing, warm, indoor option on Sunday with live local music.
: See the Broadway Junior version of the classic musical based on Charles Dickens' novel, Oliver Twist. This production is running all weekend, but note that another source mentions a similar show at CAP Theatre running until March 8th.It offers quality, family-oriented live theatre this weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Des Moines this weekend?
This weekend (Feb 28-01) offers a few great free options: check out the 'I Spy: Black History Month - Authors' scavenger hunt at the Central Library or join the 'Cookies and CultureALL' event on Sunday at 12:00 PM in Waukee.
Are there any last-chance family shows running this weekend?
Yes! This is the final weekend for 'Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap' at the Des Moines Community Playhouse and 'The Outsiders' at the Des Moines Civic Center, both closing Sunday, March 1st.
Where can my toddler play indoors on Saturday?
For kids age 5 and under, JouJou Des Moines is open for drop-in play, or you can visit the Jester Park Nature Center for a mix of indoor and outdoor fun.
