Community Events in Dallas County: A Summer of Fun and Connection
As the summer draws to a close, Dallas County is buzzing with events that bring people together for fun, community engagement, and celebration. From music festivals to sports kickoffs and local sales, there’s something for everyone this month.
Meet Me in Minburn
The “Meet Me in Minburn” series will come to a close on Thursday, August 14 at Meek Park. The event will feature a free concert by Looza Palooza from Adel. Attendees can enjoy the outdoor skating rink with free skate rentals and treat themselves to brownie or strawberry sundaes with Picket Fence Creamery vanilla ice cream for $5 a bowl. All proceeds will go toward purchasing new skates for Minburn’s Skate Shack and rink.
Perry Sidewalk Sales
Perry businesses are hosting a Sidewalk Sale on August 16 and 17. Shoppers can browse sale racks, displays, and fixtures at participating stores. Details about which businesses are taking part will be posted on the Perry Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.
August Sip & Shop
On Friday, August 15, Perry businesses are offering an after-hours shopping experience called the August Sip & Shop. This event is perfect for friends or couples looking to enjoy summer and fall apparel, home decor, and more. Refreshments and in-store offerings vary per location. Participating businesses include Backwards Boutique, Betsy Peterson Designs, Century Farm Books & Brews, Mary Rose Collective, The Farm Store & Bakery, and The Scottish Fox.
Fall Sports Kickoff
Perry Middle School will host a Fall Sports Kickoff on Friday, August 15. The event includes a volleyball preview from 5-5:45 p.m. in the gym and a football preview from 6-7 p.m. at Dewey Field. The swim and cross country teams will also be introduced during the football scrimmage. The Booster Club will have the Jays Nest open for Perry apparel and 2025-26 memberships, with concessions available.
Hawk Football Kickoff Event
On Sunday, August 17, the 3rd Annual Hawk Football Kickoff Event will take place at Whistlin Donkey Sports Bar and Grill in Woodward. Attendees can meet the 2025 Woodward-Granger team, purchase season calendar posters, new apparel, and other goodies. Freebies for kids will also be available, along with well-wishes for the upcoming season.
Perry Lutheran Homes Summer Concert Series
Perry Lutheran Homes will wrap up its summer concert series on Monday, August 18, at Eden Acres Campus. The final performance will feature Jim Quales Ministries. Food will be available for purchase, and attendees are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Bridge Us Back Information Session
On Tuesday, August 19, the Adel Partners Chamber of Commerce will host an informational meeting about the Bridge Us Back Campaign. Curt Cable, Director of Dallas County Conservation, will speak about the project and funding efforts. The session will take place in the community room at the Adel Public Library.
Get Together Club
On Friday, August 22, the Woodward Public Library will host an engaging session with Aimee Spores, Director of Hospice & Palliative Care at WesleyLife. The discussion will cover topics such as in-home care, palliative and hospice services, caregiver support, and navigating options with confidence. All are welcome to attend and bring their questions.
Fan Fest
Van Meter Athletic Booster Club will host Fan Fest on Friday, August 22, at Van Meter School and baseball/softball fields. The night will begin with a high school football scrimmage at 4:30 p.m., followed by a volleyball scrimmage at 5 p.m. and a parade of athletes (grades 7-12) at 6:15 p.m. After the parade, food trucks, music, kids’ activities, and a silent auction will take place. All proceeds will support Van Meter student athletes.
Dallas Center Fall Festival
From August 22 to 23, Dallas Center will celebrate the annual Fall Festival. Activities include a Wonderland Cake Contest, free hot dog meals, tractor pulls, and more. On Saturday, the festival will feature a 5K and tot trot, pancake breakfast, parade, tournaments, car show, carnival rides, costume contests, bingo, a foam party, live music, and fireworks. Carnival tickets are available for pre-sale through local businesses.
Granger Days
Granger Days will run from August 22 to 23 at Centennial Park. The event starts with a movie in the park and a live performance by Standing Hampton. On Saturday, there will be a pancake breakfast, 5K, and parade, along with vendor village, inflatables, dunk tanks, sand volleyball, and more. Inflatable wristbands are available for purchase at City Hall.
Van Meter Yoga in the Park
On Saturday, August 23, the Van Meter Parks & Rec Board will partner with Twisted Yoga 108 for Yoga in the Park. The event will take place at 8:30 a.m. in the green space between the Legion and the Legion Shelter House. Participants should bring their own mats, and all ages are welcome.
Waukee Yoga in the Park
Waukee will host Yoga in the Park on the same day at Windfield Park. Local yoga instructors from Fit & Fierce 515 will lead the sessions. Participants aged 12 and up are encouraged to bring a mat, water bottle, and $5 per person.
¡Viva Perry! Latino Festival
On Saturday, August 23, the annual ¡Viva Perry! Latino Festival will take place at Pattee Park. The event begins with a parade at 10 a.m., followed by various activities from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Adel Breakout Rodeo
The 5th Annual Adel Breakout Rodeo will return on Saturday, August 30, at the Dallas County Fairgrounds. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., with mutton busting starting at 6 p.m. and the rodeo at 7:30 p.m., followed by live music by Jordan Beem. Registration for mutton busting will open on August 18.
These events offer a wonderful opportunity to connect with the community, enjoy local culture, and celebrate the end of summer in Dallas County. Whether you’re looking for music, sports, shopping, or relaxation, there’s something for everyone.
