Good morning, West Des Moines.

Panera Bread at Jordan Creek will close mid-2026 as it seeks a new West Des Moines location, and Kura Revolving Sushi Bar will open Iowa’s first conveyor belt sushi restaurant in its place—expected in late 2026 or early 2027.

The shift marks a change for the mall’s dining options.

Today, with wind chills expected to drop to 30 below zero, many local school districts may delay or cancel classes; West Des Moines Community School District will decide by 5:45 a.m. based on these readings.

A blood drive at Valley High School in West Des Moines honored 17-year-old Truman Davis, whose life was saved by 100+ units of blood after his spleen ruptured.

The event took place on Dec. 3, and Davis, donating for the first time, encouraged others to support this local effort.

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.

Holiday Movie Night

5:30-8:00 p.m. — Science Center of Iowa — $2 for kids, $3 for adults — Enjoy a festive screening of 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas' with free drinks and snacks.

Princess Brunch

9 AM – 2 PM — Exile Brewing Company — Reservations recommended — Enjoy brunch with special meet and greet from the Snow Queen and Ice Princess visiting from Arendelle.

Weekly Art Nights with Art is Rad

6-8 p.m. — Big Grove Brewery & Taproom — $10 per artist — Unleash your creativity during hands-on art activities for all ages and skill levels.

Downtown DNA Holiday Gathering

5:30-7 p.m. — The Royal Mile — Free entry — Cozy up with neighbors for an evening of holiday cheer and community spirit.

A Christmas Carol

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Stoner Theater — $25-$45 — Experience the heartwarming journey of Scrooge in this festive holiday classic.

Jingle in the Junction

5-8 p.m. — Valley Junction — Free entry — Experience the charm of holiday lights and festive activities in this historic business district.

The Nutcracker

7-9 p.m. — Hoyt Sherman Place — $35-$89 — Experience the magic of Clara and her Nutcracker in this beloved holiday ballet production.

Last Chance! Open Studio Holiday Shopping

11 AM – 3 PM — Mainframe Studios — Free entry — Explore local art and find unique gifts just in time for the holidays.

A Christmas Carol

2-4 p.m. — Stoner Theater — $25-$45 — Experience Iowa's beloved holiday tradition in a heartwarming tale of redemption and community.