Good morning, West Des Moines.

Historic Valley Junction officials kicked off the first Jingle in the Junction event on Thursday night in West Des Moines by welcoming Santa and his reindeer plus offering trolley rides and ice carvings; the festivities will continue each Thursday until December 18.

On Friday, Polk County Juvenile Court finalized adoptions for 75 children joining 48 families in a record-setting event organized by the Youth Law Center along with judges, court staff and volunteers — families enjoyed festive activities that welcomed them into a new chapter.

This 22nd annual celebration honors efforts to find safe, permanent homes for children in need.

A crash on Interstate 235 near the 63rd Street exit slowed Friday evening traffic as Iowa DOT crews worked to clear a blockage on the road's left shoulder—reports did not confirm any injuries.

Des Moines Performing Arts announced that the Civic Center will host the Broadway musical Wicked from Sept.

2 to 20, 2026—tickets have not yet been released. The organization will also offer a pre-show sing-along at Varsity Cinema at 6 p.m. on Nov. 23 before the screening of Wicked: For Good.

A new report from the Common Sense Institute shows that Iowa homeowners insurance premiums increased 273% over the past 15 years, with the average now at $2533 — inflation and rising replacement costs are pushing some residents to cut coverage.

Ben Murrey, the institute’s Iowa policy director, said that using stronger building materials may help lower future losses if insurers accept new risk data.

Des Moines and West Des Moines Fire Departments are testing a pilot project that will allow EMS responders to carry blood in special vehicles and treat patients in the field.

The project, based on military techniques, aims to change EMS rules and set a statewide framework for timely treatment—officials say it has already been used in other states.

Officials from Iowa HHS announced the first influenza-related death of this respiratory virus season today, involving an older adult from southwest Iowa.

The department reported low virus activity and urged Iowans to follow safety tips—such as staying home when sick and consulting healthcare providers about vaccines—as holiday gatherings approach.

Downtown Winter Farmers' Market

8 AM – 2 PM — EMC Expo Center — Free entry — Explore holiday food, gifts, and live entertainment while supporting local vendors.

Weekly Art Nights with Art is Rad

6-8 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — $10 per artist — Unleash your creativity with new hands-on art activities each week, welcoming all ages and skill levels.

K-pop Fan Meetup

5-6 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Connect with fellow K-pop fans over snacks, trading photocards, and music fun.

Baby Rhyme Time

9:30-10:00 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Enjoy rhymes, songs, bounces, and stories for caregivers and babies aged 0-18 months.

Open Studio Holiday Shopping

11 AM – 3 PM — Mainframe Studios — Free entry — Explore unique art originals and prints at this festive shopping event.

Weekly Art Nights with Art is Rad

6-8 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — $10 participation fee — Unleash your creativity with hands-on art activities suitable for all ages and skill levels.

Truman's Miracle Drive

7:30 AM - 1:00 PM — Valley High School — Donations appreciated — Help save lives by donating blood in honor of a miracle patient.

Christmas With The Celts

7:30-9 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — $29.50-$69.50 — Experience a lively blend of Irish Christmas carols and contemporary hits with spirited performances and dance.

Wiggles and Giggles

10:15-10:45 a.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Free entry — Enjoy a lively storytime filled with movement, music, and rhymes.

Joyann Parker's Soulful Christmas

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Athletico Physical Therapy - Ingersoll — Ticket price includes dinner — Enjoy a soulful Christmas performance along with a delicious dining experience.