April 14-20, 2026

The Johnston Chamber held a ribbon cutting with Pathways Learning Academy at NorthPoint Church, 9901 N.W. 62nd Ave., on March 26.

Kites on the Green Festival

Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and come to Johnston Commons Park, 6700 Merle Hay Road. Get ready for a day full of free, family-friendly activities and fun. This year, new activities and performances have been added, including two magic shows and balloon animals by Jonathan May, stilt walking, mesmerizing sway pole performances, and water balloon tricks by Laura Ernst with Kinetic Entertainment. There will also be an obstacle bounce house and numerous other exciting, free activities for your family to enjoy. Learn more here.

Museum open

The Johnston Historical Society, 1902 Simpson House Museum at 6161 Northglenn Drive in Johnston, will be open on the second Sunday of each month from 2-4 p.m. through December. Guided tours will be available. The museum is also open during Johnston Commons park events, including Kites on the Green on Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundae in the Park on Sunday, Aug. 2 from 6-8 p.m. The museum is also open by appointment. Contact them at johnstonhistoricalsociety@gmail.com or by calling 515-330-0687 for an appointment.

Sign up for the Iowa Hero Academy

The Iowa Hero Academy provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity for young women 16-18 in central Iowa to explore careers in firefighting, policing and the military. The academy will take place July 26- 31 at Camp Dodge in Johnston. The Iowa Hero Academy is a six-day overnight camp designed to encourage young women to reach their potential by developing leadership skills, teamwork and self-confidence. From the moment campers check in to the moment they complete graduation, Iowa Hero Academy will engage participants through hands-on activities led by local female first responders passionate about making a difference in their careers. Learn more and sign up today here.

Johnston Lions Club Pancake Breakfast

Saturday, April 18, the Johnston Lions Club is hosting its annual Pancake Breakfast. The location this year is the Johnston Middle School cafeteria, 6501 N.W. 62nd Ave. Hours are 7-11 a.m., and the breakfast features pancakes (including gluten-free pancakes), sausage, scrambled eggs, juice and coffee. Tickets are $10 at the door, and kids 5 and younger are free. Proceeds will benefit the Lions Club service projects.

Bike to SingleSpeed

On Sunday, May 3, 11 a.m. the public is invited to Backpocket Pin and Pixel, 6205 Merle Hay Road, Suite 100, Johnston, for a Bike to SingleSpeed event. Rendezvous at Backpocket where riders will depart at 11 a.m. on a roundtrip ride between there and SingleSpeed, approximately 10 miles away (20 roundtrip). Backpocket will open at 10 a.m. Both locations will have food and drink specials. This is a self-guided ride, and the first qualified 50 registrants will receive one free beer (choice limited) at the halfway point and at the end. Register here.

Bloom at 62W Open House

A spring open house called Bloom at 62W will be held on Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Residences at 62W, 6000 N.W. 62nd Ave., Johnston. The event will feature a build-your-own bouquet bar, a dirty soda and lemonade bar, and apartment tours. It’s free and open to the public. Even if people aren't looking to apartment shop, this is a fun afternoon to get free flowers and a drink.

Spring Cleanup is April 20-23

Spring cleanup in Johnston will take place April 20-23. Residents living west of N.W. 86th Street are scheduled for cleanup on April 20 and 21, while those living east of N.W. 86th Street will have their cleanup on April 22 and 23. As winter comes to a close, it's a great time to think about your own spring cleaning tasks. Learn more here.

Firefighters Pancake Breakfast

Join the Johnston-Grimes Firefighters Foundation for a pancake breakfast at the new Public Safety Center, 2001 S.W. Sixth St., Grimes, on Saturday, April 25, from 7-11 a.m.

Electronics recycling event is April 18

Are you looking to dispose of your old electronics but unsure how to do it? The city is offering an electronics recycling day on Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at City Hall east parking lot, 6221 Merle Hay Road. This event takes place on the Saturday before spring cleanup. Most electronics can be recycled for free.

Farmers Markets vendor applications are now open

Applications are open for the Farmers Market through April 30. Approved applications are valid for one year, and vendor pricing is based on single- or double-space pricing. Spaces are limited, so apply early and include a brief description of your products. This year’s market will feature live music and community events to enhance the experience. For more details, please contact us. Apply here.

Johnston Public Library spring events

Johnston Public Library, 6700 Merle Hay Road, Johnston, 515-278-5233, www.johnstonlibrary.com

Get a fresh start at the library this April. You can fly a kite, test your building skills, make crafts, party with Mario and start your spring cleaning. Read on for more details.

It’s an afternoon of maximum crafting cuteness at Kawaii Craft Day: Decoden Decorating. On Thursday, April 23, from 1-2:30 p.m., teens in grades 6-12 can watch adorable animal videos while making decoden art, a Japanese style of decorating everyday items with whipped clay “frosting,” rhinestones and charms.

School is out Friday, April 24. Teens can join us for Extended Teen Space Hours from 1-5:30 p.m. No School Nostalgia: Movie & Craft begins at 1 p.m. with a showing of “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” along with Shrinky Dinks and snacks. Jackbox Games begin at 3 p.m., followed by Kahoot! Trivia: Name That Tune Edition at 4 p.m.

Kids in grades K-5 can celebrate their no-school day at the Mushroom Kingdom Mario Party. From 1-2:30 p.m., Mario fans can enjoy snacks, crafts, Mario Kart racing and other activities.

Shred Day is back. Bring up to three disposable containers of confidential documents to the library parking lot on Saturday, April 25, from 9 a.m. to noon for on-site shredding by Shred-it. No registration is required.

Have spring fever? Head to the library for Press Play. This open playtime for you and your children will be held Tuesday, April 28, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. in the Storytime Room. There will be books, sensory bins and play prompts to get you started.

Looking to recharge your parenting perspective? Join us Wednesday, April 29, at 6:30 p.m. for “The Best Thing: Finding Joy and Purpose in Parenting a Child With Special Needs.” Drawing from her book, Dawn Schneider will share insights on how parents can transform challenges into inspiration.

More information about events and resources at the Johnston Public Library are available at www.johnstonlibrary.com or by calling 515-278-5233.

Sign up to be a Kites on the Green volunteer

Kites on the Green returns on Saturday, May 2, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This free, family-friendly event is organized by community volunteers. Volunteers are needed to help throughout the day with full and partial shifts available from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. This is a great opportunity to earn volunteer hours, including silver cord hours for students. Learn more here.

Gold Star Military Museum events

Camp Dodge, 7105 N.W. 70th Ave., Johnston, https://goldstarmuseum.iowa.gov

• Free Docent-Led Museum Tours: Offered on Saturdays at 11:30 a.m.

Polk County Conservation events

Visit www.polkcountyiowa.gov/conservation/events for information about upcoming programs offered by Polk County Conservation and for registration links.

• Sandhill Crane Count. Saturday, April 18, 6-8:30 a.m. Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt, 8700 N.E. 126 Ave., Maxwell. Experience the comeback of midwestern cranes by participating in this exciting wildlife monitoring event as part of the International Crane Foundation’s Annual Midwest Crane Count. In partnership with the International Crane Foundation, Polk County Conservation is calling all bird lovers, newcomers and avid hobbyists to assist in our annual Sandhill Crane count. Driving and walking routes will be available at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt to encourage encounters for all types of accessibilities. Participants will need to be familiar with using GPS to record locations of sightings on their phones or other devices. This event is appropriate for all ages. Those younger than 16 require adult supervision. No experience necessary, and all training is provided. Registration required by noon the day prior.
• Earth Week Sunrise Hike. Saturday, April 18, 7-8 a.m., Fort Des Moines Park, Shelter #3, 7200 S.E. 5th St., Des Moines. Celebrate Earth Week by getting outside, admiring the planet, and picking up a bit of trash as we see it. Join a naturalist in a leisurely hike around Fort Des Moines Park to get an appreciative start to the weekend. Free, all ages welcome.
• Sunset Flow Yoga. Monday, April 20, 7:30-8:30 p.m., Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Take time to unwind as the sun sets inside the Great Hall or patio (in summer months) of the Jester Park Nature Center with instructor Deanna Black. This all-levels yoga class that flows from one posture to another, enhancing strength and balance, then finishes with holding positions for flexibility and relaxation. This Rooted in Nature program is offered in sponsorship with UnityPoint Health. Items to bring: yoga mat, comfortable clothing and water bottle. Ages 12 and up. Registration required by one day before.
• Women in the Woods with Wine - Celebrate Spring. Tuesday, April 21, 7-9 p.m. Jester Park Nature Center, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Join us for a rejuvenating Spring Celebration Hike as we stroll through the park's trails, exploring the prairie, woodland and pond. We will discuss the balance and renewal in nature while learning about local flora, fauna and seasonal changes. This program is for women ages 21 and older who are interested in getting outside. Become more comfortable and knowledgeable about the natural world as you unwind and have fun. Registration required by April 19.
• Wake Up with Spring. Wednesdays in April, 2-3:30 p.m. Jester Park Wetland Shelter, 12130 N.W. 128th St., Granger. Join ISU Polk County Extension and Polk County Conservation this April for a Wake Up With Spring walking series. Meet at the Jester Park's Wetland Shelter Wednesdays in April at 2 p.m. Polk County Conservation naturalists will lead participants on a walk through the park discussing a new nature theme each week. Walk with us this April to see how Iowa's landscape awakens during the spring months. Themes are as follows: April 1: Phenology; April 8: Birds; April 15: Spring Ephemerals; April 22: Critters; April 29: Trees. Free, ages 16 and older. No registration required, but RSVP appreciated here. For more information, contact Laura Fraser at lafraser@iastate.edu or 515-957-5785.

Area events

Email your event information to tammy@iowalivingmagazines.com

Mothers Day Breakfast Buffet and Bake Sale 
Sunday, May 10, 8 a.m. until noon 
West Des Moines Elks Lodge, 2060 N.W. 94th St., Clive
Enjoy a delicious Mother’s Day breakfast, which includes biscuits and gravy, French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage patties, cheesy potatoes, and all-you-can-eat pancakes (including blueberry and chocolate chip pancakes), orange juice, milk and coffee. Cost is $11, $5 for children younger than 10. Enjoy a bloody mary or mimosa for $3.50. Proceeds support the Elks Hoop Shoot Program, other youth activities and veteran activities.

Des Moines Art Center Museum Highlights Tour
Saturdays, 1-2 p.m.
Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave.
Discover the vast variety of the Des Moines Art Center’s permanent collections during the Museum Highlights Tour. This tour offers a unique journey through the galleries, featuring a selection of timeless paintings, sculptures and more. Join knowledgeable guides to uncover the stories, techniques and inspirations behind the art on view, and experience the highlights of the Art Center in a fresh and engaging way. This guided tour is perfect for art enthusiasts of all ages. Free to all, no registration required.

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden Spring Programs
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, 909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines
For information and tickets, visit https://dmbotanicalgarden.com/.

• Iowa Bonsai Association Spring Show and Sale: Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Experience the artistry of bonsai, chat with experts, and vote for your favorite miniature masterpiece.
• Celebrate Our Planet, Earth Day at the Garden: Saturday, April 18, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Celebrate Earth Day with a full day of discovery, connection and family fun. Admission is free. Explore spring blooms, enjoy hands-on activities, and connect with local organizations promoting sustainability and earth-friendly living. Bring the whole family and celebrate our planet surrounded by beauty and community.
• Prom Photography: Saturday, April 18, 4-6 p.m. After Earth Day festivities, the garden will reopen exclusively for prom photos. Tickets are $12 per person and available first-come, first-served starting at 4 p.m. Note: Prom photography is not permitted during the free admission hours.
• Bulbs and Brews: Tuesday, April 28, 5:30-6:30 p.m. or 7-8 p.m. Stroll through peak spring color on a guided tour with Director of Horticulture Aaron Harpold while enjoying a local craft beer or kombucha. Two tour times. Drink included. Limited-time bloom experience. See these spectacular displays before they fade for the season.
• Summer Camp Registration Open: Give your child a summer of discovery, creativity and outdoor adventure. These nature-based camps combine science, art, exploration and play in a safe, inspiring environment led by experienced educators. Perfect for students entering grades 1–5.
• Spring Garden Market Preview Evening: Thursday, May 7, 5:30-8 p.m. Be first to shop the Spring Garden Market during this exclusive sip-and-shop event featuring early plant access, a signature drink, hors d’oeuvres, expert guidance from horticulture staff and door prizes. Upgrade to the Cultivator Ticket to demonstrate your support of the garden’s missions, and for early entry, special recognition and exclusive perks.
• Flora Mother’s Day Buffet Brunch: Sunday, May 10, Seatings at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m. Enjoy a delicious buffet brunch in a beautiful garden setting. Reservations required at flora@dmbotanicalgarden.com or at 515-323-6288.

Downtown Farmers Market
Saturday, May 2 to Oct. 31, 7 a.m. to noon, 8 a.m. to noon in October
Historic Court District, Downtown Des Moines
The 2026 season will feature 305 vendors, including 43 new participants, with 75 produce and agriculture vendors highlighting the region’s strong farming community. Vendors represent 74 cities across 42 Iowa counties and span 12 city blocks from Water Street to Fifth Street. For more information visit www.dsmpartnership.com/desmoinesfarmersmarket/.

Middle River Arts Festival
Saturday, May 2
Madison County Conservation Center, 2508 Pammel Park Trail, Winterset
The Middle River Arts Festival will take place at the Madison County Conservation Center in Pammel Park, hosted by the Winterset Art Center. This event is scheduled for one day, is free of charge and open to the public.

Central Iowa Wind Ensemble presents FEAST!
Sunday, May 3, 3 p.m.
Staplin Performing Arts Center, 3650 Woodland Ave., West Des Moines
Join the Central Iowa Wind Ensemble with a musical feast, literally. Its final concert, FEAST!, pairs amazing music with the flavors of the metro. With spicy selections like Wine Dark Sea, Party Potatoes (yes, you heard that right, a tuba concerto about potatoes), and Godzilla Eats Las Vegas, the group is serving up a musical menu like nothing you’ve ever experienced before. Purchase tickets at www.ciwe.org/feast/.

(Feature Impact) When the weather breaks, and it is time to get outdoors, there is hardly any better place to be than resting on a deck, lounging in the backyard or curled up on a picnic blanket at a local park. Enjoy that leisurely time with loved ones by sharing a spread that includes these Picnic Party Sandwiches, perfect for a filling lunch that provides the energy you need for kicking around a soccer ball, playing tag or flying a kite.

Find more lunch ideas fit for enjoying the sunshine by visiting Culinary.net.

Picnic Party Sandwiches
Recipe adapted from “Crunch Time Kitchen”
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup salted butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
• 1 large fresh baguette
• 1/4 cup fig preserves
• 6-8 ounces cured meats, such as prosciutto, salami and capocollo
• 6 ounces brie cheese, sliced
• 2 cups arugula
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 pinch kosher salt

Directions:

• Mash together room temperature butter with fresh parsley. Set aside.
• Cut fresh baguette length-wise and smear bottom half of the baguette with herbed butter. Top with fig preserves.
• Layer on cured meats followed by slices of brie cheese. For brie, cut off any large pieces of rind.
• In small bowl, toss arugula with lemon juice and salt. Add arugula to sandwich followed by top half of baguette.
• Cut baguette into four even sandwiches and eat immediately or wrap each one tightly in paper or plastic wrap.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

WANTED: Stereo and electronic radio stuff, receivers, speakers, guitar amp, etc. Any age or condition is OK. Call 515-238-3343.

HELP WANTED: River Valley Golf Course is hiring for ProShop. Must be over 21 to be considered, 25-40 hours available per week, combination of weekday & weekend shifts, competitive pay based on experience and FREE GOLF! We'd love to have you be a part of our family! Call 515-993-4029 for more details.

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