Good morning, West Des Moines.

Iowans will test their weed knowledge at a contest at the Iowa State Fair set for Friday, August 8th at 9 a.m. in front of the John Deere Agriculture Building—participants competing in youth, general, and professional divisions must correctly name 20 to 35 common weeds to win cash prizes and blue ribbons—field agronomist Meaghan Anderson said the challenge will help people learn more about local plants.

On July 9th, the Iowa Department of Transportation reported that drive times in Des Moines remained normal with no delays during the start of rush hour — traffic cameras showed clear roads along key routes.

Writers' Workshop for Short Works

10-11 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Registration required — Engage in lively discussions as you read and share snippets of your writing.

Stone Circle Brass Quintet: Nothin’ but the Classics

2-3 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Experience a lively performance featuring a diverse repertoire from talented local musicians.

Iowa Reptile Show

10 AM – 4 PM — Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines — VIP & General Admission at the door — Explore thousands of reptiles, amphibians, and supplies with local breeders.

I Spy: Des Moines Landmarks

All day — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Explore iconic Des Moines landmarks through a fun scavenger hunt in the Youth area.

Jazz in July: Night #2

5:30-10 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — Free entry — Experience live jazz performances featuring local and traveling musicians in a vibrant summer setting.

Mindfulness Meditation for Veterans and Community

1:30-2:30 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Explore the benefits of mindfulness meditation with expert guidance and practice.

Glowforge Plus Training

3-4 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Library card required — Master the Glowforge Plus Laser Engraver and become fully qualified to use it independently.

NBDA Doula Birth Doula Training

8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Mainframe Studios — Registration required — Top-rated training for Black and BIPOC doulas addressing maternal health issues.

Monthly Critique Group Workshop

10 AM — Smokey Row Coffee — Free entry — Engage in deep discussions while sharing your poetry for constructive feedback.

5K Beer Run at Confluence Brewing

11 a.m. — Confluence Brewing Company — $35 — Enjoy a 5K fun run and celebrate with a craft beer from the local brewery while supporting the Food Bank of Iowa.