GUIDE PROGRAM - PARKS AND RECREATION - City of Des Moines, IA
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PROGRAM
GUIDE
Spring/Summer 2019
PARKS AND RECREATION
Table of Contents
Rentals 5 Parks and Recreation
Information
GRASP 6
Des Moines Parks and Recreation Office
Aquatics 8 1551 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway
Des Moines, Iowa 50317
515-237-1386
Athletics 12 parks@dmgov.org
Community Recreation Centers 22 Office Hours
Environmental Education 26 Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Parks 36 Register online and find program/event information
at dmparks.org
Special Events 37
Cancellations
Community Garden 42 In the event that inclement weather forces events or programs to be cancelled,
all efforts will be made to make an announcement as soon as possible.
Volunteer 43
Text Message Notifications
Cemetery 47 Text any of the following keywords to 84483 to sign up for updates on:
DSMEvents, DSMPools, DSMSports, DSMTrails, DSMPopUp, DSMVolunteers
Locations 49
Photo Release Facebook.com/ Instagram.com/ Twitter.com/ Youtube.com/
desmoinesparks desmoinesparks desmoinesparks desmoinesparks
Please note photos taken during programs, events or at facilities could be used for future
andrecreation
communications, marketing and public relations efforts including social media.
For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 3
Parks and Recreation
Information
Mayor Rentals
Frank Cownie
Planning a special event? Check out the wide variety of facilities available
from Des Moines Parks and Recreation. No matter what you are planning –
City Council baby shower, class reunion, birthday party, wedding and more – you can
Ward I - Bill Gray find the right sized venue.
Ward II - Linda Westergaard
Ward III - Josh Mandelbaum
Ward IV - Joe Gatto Available facilities:
At Large - Christopher Coleman • Open-Air and Enclosed Shelters
At Large - Connie Boesen • Conference Rooms
• Gyms
• Gardens
Parks and Recreation Board • Amphitheaters
The Parks and Recreation Board is comprised of 15 members. Each city • Gray’s Lake Park Terrace and Green Spaces
council member appoints two members and the Des Moines Public School • Aquatic Centers and Wading Pools
Board appoints one member. The board meets monthly on the fourth Tuesday To ensure you get the site and the date you want, make your reservation now!
in the board room at the Richard A. Clark Municipal Service Center located Review pricing and make your selection online at dmparks.org.
at 1551 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy. The board recommends rules and
regulations for the equipping, maintenance, conduct, supervision and control
of the city playgrounds, recreation centers and special facilities. The board
also reviews and provides input for the operating and capital improvement
budgets. Four advisory committees provide citizen and expert input to the
board on various parks and recreation issues: Citizen Golf Advisory, Urban
Conservation, Citizen Cemetery Advisory, and Trails and Greenways.
Cynde Fanter Sammy F. Pugh
Loyd W. Ogle William Thompson
Joel Potter Bill Nassif
Sarah Lohmeier George Davis (Chair)
R. Stephen Vilmain James Bollard
Kimberley Boggus Andrea Woodard
Victoria Facto Heather Anderson
4 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 5
GRASP
What is GRASP?
GRASP stands for Greater Des Moines Recreational Activity Scholarship
Program. This program allows low-income families discounts on programs Cost with GRASP
and rentals. Regular Cost
card
Swim Lessons $30 $5
How do I qualify? Individual Passes $45 $11.25
Rules:
• Be a Des Moines Resident Family (2 people) $80 $20
• Meet established income guidelines Family (3 people) $110 $27.50
Family (4 people) $140 $35
Household Size Household Income Family (5 people) $145 $40
1 $30,350
Family (6 people) $150 $45
2 $41,150
3 $51,950
4 $62,750 Additional GRASP card discounts:
• 1 free child admission with a paid adult admission to the
5 $73,550 Science Center of Iowa
6 $84,350 • 1 free child admission with a paid adult admission to the
Blank Park ZOO
• Have your income verified by IMPACT Community Action Partnership. • 1 free child admission with a paid adult admission to the
Schedule an appointment by calling 515-518-4770 or visit 500 Army Benton Skating Plaza
Post Road, Suite 17 or 3226 University Avenue.
For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386
What do I get?
• Receive 50% off the following:
GRASP
• Bike Rentals
• Boat Rentals
• Open-Air Shelters
• PeeWee Individual Sports
• Youth Individual Sports
Receive 75% off or more off the If your household meets the
following: established income guidelines,
• Season Swim Passes your income is verified, and you
• Community Garden Plot are a resident of the city of
Des Moines, you qualify to
• Swim Lessons
receive discounts on swim
lessons, tennis lessons,
basketball and much more!
Call IMPACT Community Action
6 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programsPartnership
or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 7
at 515-248-6216
to schedule an appointment or
Aquatics
Half-Price Admission Nights National Swim a Lap Day - June 24th
Make a splash at the pool Monday-Thursday from 5:00-6:30pm throughout Grab your goggles and jump into one of the aquatic facilities and swim a lap
the summer! Half-price daily admission applies. or two. Celebrate the sport of swimming with the City of Des Moines!
Monday-Thursday in June, July and August Program Times: Regular hours
Program Times: 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Cost: Half-price admission all day.
Cost: Half-price daily admission. Ages for Program: All Ages Location: All Pools
Ages for Program: All Ages Location: All Pools
Military Appreciation Day - July 4th
Private Rental Celebrate our nation’s independence with the City of Des Moines! For those
Rent one of our aquatic facilities for your next event! Rentals are available to who serve or have served our country, receive free admission to our aquatic
all persons, organizations, clubs and youth groups. Reservations are arranged facilities. Thank you for your service!
on a first-come, first-serve basis and depends on availability of staff. Rates
are set according to the number of people in your group. Visit our website to
Program Times: Regular hours
complete your reservation.
Cost: Free admission for active duty, retired and veteran
military personnel with military identification card.
Rental requests must be made online at least 10 days prior Immediate family members with military personnel
to the date of facility use. All facilities are available for receive half-price admission.
private rental June 8 - July 31.
Ages for Program: All Ages Location: All Pools
Program Times: After regular hours (evenings)
Registration Begins: 4/1/2019 Registration Ends: 7/21/2019
Cost: Rates are set according to the number of people in your group. National Parents’ Day - July 28th
National Parents’ Day is a day to honor all parents. Stop by the aquatic
Ages for Program: All Ages Location: All Pools
centers and make a splash with your kids!
Family Days Program Times: Regular hours
Grab the family and jump into the pool! Enjoy Family Day at all City of Des Cost: Free admission for parents (adult admission) with a
Moines aquatic facilities. paid youth admission.
Ages for Program: All Ages Location: All Pools
Second Friday of each month: June 14, July 12, August 9
Program Times: Regular hours
Cost: $5 per family Doggie Dive
An opportunity for dogs to celebrate the last day of the pool season! Dogs
Ages for Program: All Ages Location: All Pools
must be able to swim and be supervised by their owners at all times.
Father’s Day - June 16th Cost: $4 per dog, Regular admission for owners
Make a splash on Father’s Day, as we honor fathers and celebrate fatherhood
with complimentary admission for fathers. Ashworth, Birdland, Nahas and Northwest on Sunday,
August 18 from 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Teachout on Monday, September 2 from 4:30 p.m -6:30 p.m.
Program Times: Regular hours
Cost: Free admission for fathers (adult) with paid youth admission.
Ages for Program: All Ages Location: All Pools
8 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 9
Swim Lessons
Sign-up for a swim lesson session today! Learn to swim through our American
Red Cross lessons for ages 6 months through adults. A variety of sessions are
offered in the morning and evening, including Baby and Me, Preschool Swim,
Learn-To-Swim Levels 1-5, Adult Lessons and Private Lessons. Registration will
open on April 1.
Start Day June 10, 2019 Start Day July 8, 2019
June 10 - 14 July 8 - 12
Start times vary: 9:00 a.m. - Start times vary: 9:00 a.m. -
1:00 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and
Program Times: Program Times:
7:45 p.m. Five (5) lessons total. 7:45 p.m. Five (5) lessons total.
Each lesson is 45 minutes. Each lesson is 45 minutes.
Registration Begins: 4/1/2019 Registration Ends: 6/7/2019 Registration Begins: 4/1/2019 Registration Ends: 7/5/2019
Cost: $30 Cost: $30
Ages for Program: All Ages Location: All Pools Ages for Program: All Ages Location: All Pools
Start Day June 17, 2019 Start Day July 15, 2019
June 17 - 21 July 15 - 19
Start times vary: 9:00 a.m. - Start times vary: 9:00 a.m. -
1:00 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and
Program Times: Program Times:
7:45 p.m. Five (5) lessons total. 7:45 p.m. Five (5) lessons total.
Each lesson is 45 minutes. Each lesson is 45 minutes.
Registration Begins: 4/1/2019 Registration Ends: 6/14/2019 Registration Begins: 4/1/2019 Registration Ends: 7/12/2019
Cost: $30 Cost: $30
Ages for Program: All Ages Location: All Pools Ages for Program: All Ages Location: All Pools
Start Day June 24, 2019 Start Day July 22, 2019
June 24 - 28 July 22 - 26
Start times vary: 9:00 a.m. - Start times vary: 9:00 a.m. -
1:00 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and
Program Times: Program Times:
7:45 p.m. Five (5) lessons total. 7:45 p.m. Five (5) lessons total.
Each lesson is 45 minutes. Each lesson is 45 minutes.
Registration Begins: 4/1/2019 Registration Ends: 6/21/2019 Registration Begins: 4/1/2019 Registration Ends: 7/19/2019
Cost: $30 Cost: $30
Ages for Program: All Ages Location: All Pools Ages for Program: All Ages Location: All Pools
10 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 11
Athletics
Youth Athletics – Pre-K and Kindergarten
These programs introduce children to team sports, teammates, and game
situations while learning the basics in a fun atmosphere. Teams will be
separated into single age groups 3,4,5,6. Each team is co-ed and will have
a parent coach. All equipment, including a jersey will be provided.
Youth Athletics – Elementary School
Flag Football Des Moines Parks and Recreation and Des Moines Public Schools partner to
offer these programs. Participants may register a team or individuals for all
Start Day September 3, 2019 sports. Teams will be separated into single grade groups: 1st, 2nd, 3rd , 4th
Program Times: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. and 5th grade divisions. Each team will have a parent coach. Standings and
Registration Begins: 5/1/19 Registration Ends: 8/1/19 score will be kept and officials provided unless otherwise noted. Practices
and games will be held at least once per week and league tournaments will
Cost: $40
take place at the end of the season. All equipment, including a jersey will be
Ages for Program: 3-6 provided.
Location: James W. Cownie Soccer Park
Flag Football
Kickball Start Day September 7, 2019
Start Day September 3, 2019 Program Times: 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Program Times: 8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Registration Begins: 5/1/19 Registration Ends: 8/1/19
Registration Begins: 6/1/19 Registration Ends: 8/1/19 Cost: $50/person; $475/team
Cost: $40 Ages for Program: 1st grade - 5th grade
Ages for Program: 3-4 Area schools and James W.
Location: James W. Cownie Baseball Park Location: Cownie Soccer, Championship
games played at Drake Stadium
Tee-Ball
Start Day September 3, 2019 Coach Pitch Baseball
Program Times: 8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Start Day September 3, 2019
Registration Begins: 6/1/19 Registration Ends: 8/1/19 Program Times: 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Cost: $40 Registration Begins: 6/1/19 Registration Ends: 8/1/19
Ages for Program: 5-6 Cost: $50
Location: James W. Cownie Baseball Park Ages for Program: Grades 1st and 2nd
Location: James W. Cownie Baseball Park
12 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 13
Youth Athletics – Middle School
Des Moines Parks and Recreation and Des Moines Public Schools partner to
offer these programs. Participants may register a team or individuals for all
Basketball sports. Teams will be separated into single grade groups: 6th grade and 7th
grade divisions. Each team has a parent coach. Standings and score will be
Start Day November 2, 2019 kept and officials provided unless otherwise noted. Practices and games will
Boys division grades 3-5, Girls grade 5 on Saturdays; Boys and Girls be held at least once per week and league tournaments will take place at the
grades 1-2, and Girls 3-4 on Sundays end of the season. All equipment, including a jersey will be provided.
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. weekends;
Program Times:
5:45 - 8:00 p.m. weeknights
Registration Begins: 8/1/19 Registration Ends: 10/1/19
Flag Football
Start Day September 7, 2019
Cost: $60/person; $550/team
Program Times: 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Ages for Program: 1st grade - 5th grade
Registration Begins: 5/1/19 Registration Ends: 8/1/19
Pioneer Columbus, Fourmile and
Location: Cost: $50/person; $475/team
area schools
Note: Leagues separated by gender Ages for Program: 6th and 7th grades
Area schools and James W.
Location: Cownie Soccer, Championship
games played at Drake Stadium
Basketball
Start Day November 2, 2019
Boys division grade 6, Girls grade 6th and 7th on Saturdays;
Boys 7th grade division Wednesdays
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. weekends;
Program Times:
5:45 - 8:00 p.m. weeknights
Registration Begins: 8/1/19 Registration Ends: 10/1/19
Cost: $60/person; $550/team
Ages for Program: 6th and 7th grades
Pioneer Columbus, Fourmile and
Location:
area schools
14 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 15
3 vs 3 Adult Basketball - Summer
Start Day June 18, 2019
Program Times: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Registration Begins: 5/1/2019 Registration Ends: 6/1/2019 Bags - Fall
Cost: $150.00 Start Day September 4, 2019
Ages for Program: 18 + (open), 35 and over Program Times: 5:45 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Location: Pioneer Columbus Registration Begins: 7/1/2019 Registration Ends: 8/15/2019
Cost: $35.00
Ages for Program: 18+
Bags - Summer Location: Downtown Hub Spot
Des Moines Parks and Recreation will be forming ADULT BEAN BAG
LEAGUES this summer and fall. These leagues will be played at the Hub
Spot, located at the corner of Court Avenue and Water Street, across from
the Polk County Treasurer’s Office. The Hub Spot has a top-notch patio area Flag Football - Fall
serving concessions and adult beverages. Teams of two adults (18 and older) Des Moines Parks and Recreation offers competitive and recreational ADULT
compete for six weeks. Duos race to a score of 21 and play a set of three FLAG FOOTBALL leagues with separate leagues for men and women. A
games. Match times range from 5:45 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. and will be determined 7-game schedule offers once a week play on weeknights, Monday through
after all of the teams have been finalized. Thursday, or on Sundays. All games are played at Ashfield (E 19th & Hubbell
Ave). Teams provide their own flags and can roster up to 20 players with
seven players on the field at a time.
Start Day June 5, 2019
Wednesday and Thursday
Start Day September 3, 2019
Program Times: 5:45 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Monday - Thursday & Sunday
Registration Begins: 4/1/2019 Registration Ends: 6/1/2019
6:00 - 9:00 p.m. M-Th
Cost: $35.00 Program Times:
11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Sunday
Ages for Program: 18+ Registration Begins: 7/1/2019 Registration Ends: 8/15/2019
Location: Downtown Hub Spot Cost: $250.00
Ages for Program: 18+
Location: Ashfield Park
16 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 17
Softball - Summer
Each team receives:
• 13 regular season games
• At least one league tournament game
• Double Headers offered. This means teams can play up to 20 games for
Kickball - Summer the original entry fee!
Des Moines Parks and Recreation offers COED KICKBALL leagues for players In addition those teams that win either the league or league tournament
18 and over. A 7-game schedule is played at the Greater Des Moines Softball qualify to participate in the Davis Tournament of Champions, a free event .
Complex (4980 NE 46th Street) on Wednesday evenings.
Start Day May 1, 2019
Start Day May 1, 2019
Wednesday-Friday & Sunday
Program Times: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
6:30 p.m - 9:20 p.m. Weeknight;
Registration Begins: 2/1/2019 Registration Ends: 4/1/2019 Program Times:
11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sunday
Cost: $195.00 Registration Begins: 2/1/2019 Registration Ends: 4/1/2019
Ages for Program: 18+ Cost: $390.00
Location: GDM Softball Complex Ages for Program: 18+
Location: GDM complex
Kickball - Fall
Des Moines Parks and Recreation offers COED KICKBALL leagues for players
18 and over. A 7-game schedule is played at the Greater Des Moines Softball Softball - Fall
Complex (4980 NE 46th Street) on Wednesday evenings. Des Moines Parks and Recreation offers FALL SOFTBALL leagues for both men
and coed slow-pitch divisions. Teams play a 7-game schedule, one game
Start Day September 4, 2019 per week, and must be registered with ASA Softball ($27). Teams that have
played in Des Moines Parks and Recreation summer leagues in the same year
Program Times: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. are already ASA registered.
Registration Begins: 7/1/2019 Registration Ends: 8/15/2019
Cost: $195.00 Start Day September 1, 2019
Ages for Program: 18+ Wednesday - Friday and Sunday
Location: GDM Softball Complex 6:30 p.m. - 9:20 p.m. Weeknight;
Program Times:
11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sunday
Registration Begins: 7/1/2019 Registration Ends: 8/15/2019
Cost: $195.00
Ages for Program: 18+
Location: GDM Softball Complex
18 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 19Softball - Fastpitch
• 14-game double header schedule played from early May - late June,
6-9 pm weeknights
Start Day May 7, 2019
Tuesday
Program Times: 6:30 p.m. - 9:20 p.m. Ultimate Frisbee
Registration Begins: 2/1/2019 Registration Ends: 4/1/2019 This fall, Des Moines Parks and Recreation will offer Adult Coed Ultimate
Frisbee League at James W. Cownie Soccer Complex. Ultimate Frisbee
Cost: $390.00
combines the running of soccer, the jumping, passing, and turnovers of
Ages for Program: 18+ basketball, and the deep throws into the end zone of football. The object
Location: GDM complex of this non-contact sport is to throw a Frisbee up the field between teams of
seven from teammate to teammate until it’s caught in the opponent’s end-
zone. League play will begin mid-August and conclude early November. A
Softball - District Fastpitch post-season tournament will follow regular season play.
Des Moines Parks and Recreation is hosting the Men’s 12” Fast-Pitch Softball
Central Iowa #4 District Tournament, qualifying for State Championship Start Day August 14, 2019
Tournaments. District Tournament games will be played, early July. The field Wednesdays
location is the Greater Des Moines Softball Complex, 4980 NE 46th Street,
Program Times: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Des Moines, Iowa. The tournament format will be pool play or three game
bracket play, depending on the number of entered teams. Entry Deadline Registration Begins: 5/1/2019 Registration Ends: 7/15/2019
Online: Sunday, June 1 – NO LATE ENTRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED. Entry Fee: Cost: $25.00
$140.00 per team, plus $27.00 per team ASA fee, is required if not a current
Ages for Program: 16+
ASA member. Teams currently playing in the Des Moines leagues are already
ASA registered. Roster: Official ASA team roster listing a maximum 20 players Location: James W. Cownie Soccer
must be submitted before your first game.
Start Day July 1, 2019
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Next Monday if necessary.
Program Times: 6:30 p.m. - 9:20 p.m.
Registration Begins: 5/1/2019 Registration Ends: 6/1/2019
Cost: $140.00
Ages for Program: 18+
Location: GDM complex
20 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 21Community Recreation Centers
Table Tennis
Everyone is welcome at the Des Moines Table Tennis Club (DMTTC). We offer
excitement for all ages and all levels of play. DMTTC is a great place to enjoy
table tennis action, have fun and meet people. The club consists of a variety
of players in every way. The common thread is that we all enjoy the sport of Kids vs Cops
table tennis. This program is an early out Wednesday activity for school age children
18 and under, Every Fourth Wednesday of the month at 4:00 p.m. (except
November and December). This is an opportunity for you to get to know and
Start Day January 2, 2019 interact with the Police Department. Come out and have some fun!
Late February to November, Tuesday and Thursday evenings May 1, 2019 - Basketball and pizza party
Program Times: 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Registration Begins: 1/2/2019 Registration Ends: 12/31/2019 Start Day August 1, 2019
Cost: Youth (15 under) $2.00 / Adult $5.00 visit August - April
Ages for Program: 12 and up Program Times: 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Location: Fourmile Cost: Free
Ages for Program: 12-18
Polk County Senior Meal Site Location: Fourmile
Educational classes, crafts, music, exercise, bingo and games are just some
of the activities available. Transportation,Volunteer Opportunities, Foot Clinic,
Blood Pressure and weekly Educational Speakers. Lunch is served to Seniors Senior Striders Walking Club
age 60 years and older. This program is a climate controlled gym with benches for resting between
Reservation for Fourmile: 265-9977 laps.16 laps around the gym is a mile.
Reservation for Pioneer Columbus: 288-3734
Start Day January 2, 2019
Start Day January 2, 2019 January - December, Monday - Friday
January - December Program Times: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Program Times: 9:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Registration Begins: 1/2/2019 Registration Ends: 12/2/2019
Registration Begins: 1/2/2019 Registration Ends: 12/30/2019 60 and up free, 59 and under $1.00
Cost: Suggested Donation based on income. Ages for Program: Everyone Welcome
Ages for Program: 60 and over Location: Fourmile
Location: Fourmile and Pioneer Columbus
22 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 23Morning Pickleball Police Athletic League Boxing Club
A paddle sport created for all ages and skill levels. The rules are simple Youth ages 10-18 develop both physical and emotional maturity needed
and easy to learn, but can develop into a fast paced, competitive game for to become successful adults. Positive discipline, effective leadership and a
experienced players. supportive peer group are all found within the DMPD Boxing Club.
Start Day January 2, 2019 Start Day January 2, 2019
January - December, Monday - Friday January - December
Program Times: 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Registration Begins: 1/2/2019 Registration Ends: 12/31/2019 during school year,
Program Times:
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Cost: $2 per day or $15 per month during summer
Ages for Program: 10 and older Registration Begins: 1/2/2019 Registration Ends: 12/31/2019
Location: Pioneer Columbus Cost: Free
Ages for Program: 10-18
Evening Pickleball Location: Pioneer Columbus
A paddle sport created for all ages and skill levels. The rules are simple and
the game is easy to learn, but can develop into a fast paced, competitive
game for experienced players.
Start Day March 1, 2019
April - September, Tuesdays and Thursdays
Program Times: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Registration Begins: 3/1/2019 Registration Ends: 9/30/2019
Cost: $2 per day or $15 per month
Ages for Program: 10 and older
Location: Pioneer Columbus
24 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 25Environmental Education
GPS Egg Hunt - April 14th
Join Des Moines Parks and Recreation Environmental Education in Ewing Park
Birding Basics for some traditional egg hunting fun with a modern fun twist. At this event,
registered participants will use a hand held GPS unit to find the location of
This program is free and open to all ages. Participants take a casual walk at
Gray’s Lake in search of migrating and residential birds. John Bissell leads the eggs hidden in the park. After a brief introduction and some directions on
group, pointing out birds, talking about their habits and answering questions. how to use the GPS, participants will go out on a “GPS Egg Hunt” in the park.
Great for beginners and people with some experience. Wednesdays, March For each correct location that they find, they will get to pick up a small prize
- May, 11-11:45 am. to take home with them and learn something about the plants and animals
that live in Ewing Park. Choose either a 1:00 p.m. or a 2:00 p.m. start time.
The first half of the series we will focus on water birds such as ducks, geese,
loons, grebes, mergansers, pelicans, and herons. The public will meet at the Program Times: 1:00 p.m. start or 2:00 p.m. start
terrace on the south side of Gray’s Lake. For the second half of the series we Registration Begins: 11/14/2018 Registration Ends: 4/13/2019
will search for songbirds such as warblers, vireos, thrushes, and sparrows.
Cost: $10 per person collecting prizes
Start Day March 6, 2019 All ages. Anyone under 16 must be
Ages for Program:
accompanied by an adult.
March - May, Wednesdays
Location: Ewing Park Lilac Arboretum
Program Times: 11:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Program Begins: 3/6/2019 Program Ends: 5/29/2019
Cost: Free Event Downtown Earth Day Tour -
Ages for Program: All ages April 20th
Location: Gray’s Lake Park Terrace As part of the Downtown Earth Day Tour, Des Moines Parks and Recreation
Environmental Education will have a booth at the Science Center of Iowa.
This year we are going to highlight Monarch Butterflies and habitat by giving
Bald Eagle Nest Viewing away milkweed plants that monarch caterpillars eat to survive. Make sure to
Stop by the Bald Eagle nest at Gray’s Lake on Tuesdays, April - June and we find our booth at the Science Center of Iowa and join in the conservation fun.
will have spotting scopes and binoculars set up from 11 am - 1 pm for you to
use while we watch the Bald Eagles as they raise their young. Each week we Program Times: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
will be watching and answering questions about the eaglets as they mature.
Cost: $5
There is no fee and everyone is welcome to stop by and take a look.
Ages for Program: All ages
Start Day April 2, 2019 Location: Science Center of Iowa
April - June, Tuesdays
Program Times: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Program Begins: 4/2/2019 Program Ends: 6/25/2019
Cost: Free Event
Ages for Program: All Ages
Gray’s Lake Northwest Parking
Location:
Lot area on the trail
26 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 27Butterfly Garden Plant.Grow.Fly. -
May 18th
Des Moines Parks and Recreation is helping Monarch butterflies and
pollinators in our city parks and you can help too. On Saturday, May 18 from
10:00 am to Noon, Parks and Recreation will host a Plant.Grow.Fly. event
at Gray’s Lake. Sign up to be part of the program and not only will you help Milkweed Planting for Monarchs at
create a new Butterfly Garden, but you will make a butterfly friendly planter
to take home with you on the same day. The first part of the program will
James W. Cownie Baseball Complex -
involve learning about what pollinators need so they can survive and why May 24th
they are important to people. Second, participants will decorate and fill a In an effort to increase habitat for Monarch Butterflies, Des Moines Parks
flower pot they design themselves. The planters will help support pollinators and Recreation is planting several species of milkweeds in some of our parks.
and participants will take it home with them. The last part of the program will This time we are adding milkweed plants to the James W. Cownie Baseball
actually be planting native Iowa species of plants in a new Butterfly Garden. Complex and we are going to need some help putting the plants into the
Be prepared to get your hands dirty and do a little work to help out Monarchs ground and getting watered so they will survive. Participants will listen to a
and pollinators. Registration for this event is limited and the fee is $10 per short informative presentation about Monarch Butterflies, receive instructions
take home planter created. on how to handle the milkweed plants and then we will get our hands dirty.
Program Times: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Program Times: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Registration Begins: 11/14/2018 Registration Ends: 5/18/2019 Registration Begins: 11/14/2018 Registration Ends: 5/24/2019
Cost: $10.00 for each planter Cost: Free Event
All ages program . Anyone under Ages for Program: Adults 18 years and older
Ages for Program: 16 years old must be accompanied
James W. Cownie
by an adult. Location:
Baseball Park
Location: Gray’s Lake Park
Milkweeds for Monarch Butterflies at
Star Viewing at Ewing Park -
Ewing Park - May 31st
May 18th In an effort to increase habitat for Monarch Butterflies, Des Moines Parks
Enjoy the night sky looking for Mars, the Blue Moon and Jupiter. This and Recreation is planting several species of milkweeds in some of our parks.
partnership with the Science Center of Iowa and Des Moines Astronomical This time we are adding milkweed plants to the prairie in Ewing Park and we
Society, brings viewing of the stars and planets through telescopes to Ewing are going to need some help putting the plants into the ground and getting
Park. We will meet at the Lilac Arboretum where there will be telescopes watered so they will survive. Participants will listen to a short informative
and information about what you are viewing. Come dressed for the outdoor presentation about Monarch Butterflies, receive instructions on how to handle
weather. Feel free to bring your own telescope along if you would like. This the milkweed plants and then we will get our hands dirty.
is a free event for all ages.
Program Times: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Program Times: 9:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. Registration Begins: 11/14/2018 Registration Ends: 5/31/2019
Cost: Free Event Cost: Free Event
Ages for Program: All ages event Ages for Program: Adults 18 years an older
Location: Ewing Park Lilac Arboretum Location: Ewing Park south prairie area
28 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 29Free Fishing Friday - June 7th
If you are interested in giving fishing a try for the first time, don’t worry, we will
be there to help you. Bait and tackle supplies will be on hand to use at no cost
and it is Free Fishing Weekend in Iowa, so a fishing license is not required. All
Train the Trainer Stand Up ages are welcome and there is no pre-registration.
Paddleboard Class - June 1st and 2nd
This is a two day class for people that will be leading and instructing other Program Times: 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
groups how to Stand Up Paddleboard. Class will include classroom lecture,
Cost: Free
skills building and improved efficiency and hands on paddling. Day one will
be flat water paddling and take place on Gray’s Lake. Day two will include Ages for Program: All ages program
paddling on a river. Registration is required and the fee is $25.00 contact Gray’s Lake Park
todd.robertson@dnr.iowa.gov. Location:
Northwest Parking Lot
Program Times: TBA
Registration Begins: 1/1/2019 Registration Ends: 5/30/2019 Stand Up Paddleboard
Cost: $25.00 Introduction Classes
Ages for Program: Adults 18 and over This program is designed to introduce and expose the participants to
sufficient skills and knowledge, so that they can enjoy the sport of Stand
Location: Gray’s Lake Park
Up Paddleboarding in a flat water setting. Topics that will be covered in
the course include launching, board control and different paddling strokes.
Registration includes equipment and instruction. Pre-registration is required
Plant.Grow.Fly. at the North Side and gear is limited.
Library - June 4th
Des Moines Parks and Recreation is helping Monarch butterflies and Start Day June 9, 2019
pollinators in our city parks and you can help too. Parks and Recreation
Introduction Class also offered in July and August
along with the North Side Library will host a Plant.Grow.Fly. event. Sign up
to be part of the program and learn about Monarchs and pollinators and Program Times: 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
you will make a butterfly friendly planter to take home with you on the same Registration Begins: 11/14/2018 Registration Ends: 6/7/2019
day. The first part of the program will involve learning about what pollinators
Cost: $25.00
need so they can survive and why they are important to people. Second,
participants will decorate and fill a flower pot they design themselves. The Participants under 16 years of age
Ages for Program:
planters will help support pollinators and participants will take it home with must be accompanied by an adult.
them. Be prepared to get your hands dirty and do a little work to help out Gray’s Lake Park
Monarchs and pollinators. Registration for this event is limited and through Location:
Northwest Parking Lot
the North Side Library.
Program Times: 3:30 p.m. July 13th
Registration Begins: 3/1/19 Registration Ends: 6/4/19 Registration Begins: 11/14/2018 Registration Ends: 7/13/2019
Cost: Free program Program Times: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Ages for Program: 5-12
Location: North Side Library August 22nd
Registration Begins: 11/14/2018 Registration Ends: 8/22/2019
Program Times: 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
30 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 31Star Viewing in Ewing Park - June 8th
Enjoy the night sky looking for the Moon, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn. This
partnership with the Science Center of Iowa and Des Moines Astronomical
Society, brings viewing of the stars and planets through telescopes to Ewing
Park. We will meet at the Lilac Arboretum where there will be telescopes Stand Up Paddleboard with the
and information about what you are viewing. Come dressed for the outdoor
weather. Feel free to bring your own telescope along if you would like. This Naturalist
is a free event for all ages. Enjoy exploring the wildlife that lives in and around Gray’s Lake on a Stand
Up Paddleboard with our Environmental Education Staff. Fees include all the
gear and instructions to get you started so come dressed to get wet. Anyone
Program Times: 9:45 p.m. - 11:45 p.m. under 16 years old must have an adult present to participate. Pre-registration
Cost: Free Event is required.
Ages for Program: All ages
Program Times: 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Location: Ewing Park Lilac Arboretum
Cost: $10.00
Anyone under 16 years old must
iEARTH Camps Ages for Program: have an adult present to partici-
Get in touch with the world around you through activities like water quality pate.
research, ecology, hiking, tree identification, species documentation, nature Gray’s Lake Park
investigation and more! iEARTH is a partnership between the Science Location:
Northwest Parking Lot
Center of Iowa and Des Moines Parks and Recreation. Learn from outdoor
enthusiasts, art teachers and environmental specialists. Have a blast with fun
and safe supervised activities. On rainy days, we’ll be indoors or take a field
trip, but please come rain or shine and dress for the weather!
June 18th
Registration Begins: 11/14/2018 Registration Ends: 6/18/2019
Start Day June 17, 2019
Various weeks during the summer June 27th
Program Times: 9:00 a.m. Registration Begins: 11/14/2018 Registration Ends: 6/27/2019
Contact SCI for details
Registration Begins:
515-274-6868
July 17th
Contact SCI for details
Registration Ends: Registration Begins: 11/14/2018 Registration Ends: 7/17/2019
515-274-6868
Cost: Contact Science Center of Iowa for details
Ages for Program: Grades 1st-8th July 23rd
MacRae Park and Registration Begins: 11/14/2018 Registration Ends: 7/23/2019
Location:
Gray’s Lake Park
August 13th
Registration Begins: 11/14/2018 Registration Ends: 8/13/2019
August 27th
Registration Begins: 11/14/2018 Registration Ends: 8/27/2019
32 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 33Plant.Grow.Fly. at the South Side STAR Party - August 10th
For over 2000 years, the Perseid meteor shower has been the most active
Library - June 28th meteor shower of the year. STAR Party is being held during the meteor
Des Moines Parks and Recreation is helping Monarch butterflies and shower, August 10 at the Ewing Park Lilac Arboretum. The meteors will not be
pollinators in our city parks and you can help too. Parks and Recreation visible until later that night but there is a full slate of fun for the whole family
along with the South Side Library will host a Plant.Grow.Fly. event. Sign up leading up to the action in the sky. Kid friendly fun starts at 6:00 p.m. with
to be part of the program and learn about Monarchs and pollinators and crafts, experiments and activities. While the sun is setting we will have guest
you will make a butterfly friendly planter to take home with you on the same speakers to teach you about the night sky and the interesting things you can
day. The first part of the program will involve learning about what pollinators see there. Starting about 9:00 p.m. when it is dark enough, a feature movie
need so they can survive and why they are important to people. Second, will be shown on the outdoor movie screen. Overnight primitive camping
participants will decorate and fill a flower pot they design themselves. The available by reservation for a fee.
planters will help support pollinators and participants will take it home with
them. Be prepared to get your hands dirty and do a little work to help out
Monarchs and pollinators. Registration for this event is limited and through Program Times: 6:00 p.m.
the South Side Library. Cost: Free program
Ages for Program: All ages
Program Times: 2:30 p.m. Location: Ewing Park Lilac Arboretum
Registration Begins: 4/1/2019 Registration Ends: 6/28/2019
Cost: Free program
Ages for Program: 5-12
Location: South Side Library
34 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 35Parks Special Events
Mayors Annual Ride and Run (MARR) -
April 20th
Proceeds from both events go towards area trails.
International Lilac Conference
The International Lilac Society is holding their annual conference in Des
Moines. Run 9:00 a.m. and Bike Ride
Program Times:
10:00 a.m.
Start Day May 2, 2019 Registration Begins: 1/2/2019 Registration Ends: 4/20/2019
Program Times: 3 day event Cost: $35, $50 day of event
Registration Begins: 2/1/2019 Registration Ends: 4/12/2019 Ages for Program: 9 years and older
Cost: $250 Location: Principal Park
Ages for Program: All ages
Location: Ewing Park May 4th Youth Music Showcase - May 11th
The City of Des Moines Parks and Recreation along with the Des Moines
Music Coalition will be hosting two Youth Music Showcase events at Captain
Spring Perennial Divide - May 17th Roy’s (adjacent to Birdland Marina) on Saturday, May 11 from 1-5 p.m. This
Home owners looking to donate plants from their garden are welcome to drop is a unique opportunity for bands or performers of any musical genre who are
off the plants at the City Greenhouse. Plants will be donated to neighborhood or whose members are mostly, if not all, 18 years of age or younger. A band/
associations, schools, non-profits and back to the Parks. performer must be registered by an adult sponsor and answer a few questions
about contact information, number of members, style of music, etc. A sample
of the bands musicianship will be required to help members of the Des Moines
Program Times: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Music Coalition assemble the lineup for the performance. Bands/performers
Registration Begins: 5/16/2019 Registration Ends: 5/18/2019 will be contacted approximately two weeks prior to the show to confirm their
Cost: Free commitment and finalize details regarding performance times, number of
songs, other special situations, and more.
Ages for Program: all
Location: City Greenhouse, 2501 SE Maury
Program Times: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Registration Begins: 1/4/2019 Registration Ends: 4/29/2019
Urban Archery Season Cost: Free
This program links proficient archers with property owners in Des Moines on Ages for Program: 18 and older
private property and some selected park areas to address the overpopulation
of deer. A Proficiency Test and the Bow Hunters Safety Course through Iowa Location: Captain Roy’s Birdland Marina
DNR required. By approved permit only.
September 14 - January 26, 2020
½ Hour before Sunset –
Program Times:
½ hour after Sunset
Registration Begins: 8/1/2019 Registration Ends: 8/23/2019
Cost: $10 before September 1, $20 after September 1st
Park Area Registration: 8/1/2019 to 8/23/2019
36 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 37Yoga in the Parks
Volunteer instructor led Yoga sessions in our parks on Saturday
mornings. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact
parksvolunteer@dmgov.org. Sponsored by Unity Point Health - Des Moines.
FREE Flicks
Neighborhood Association sponsored events in our parks, on Thursday
nights. Movie starts at sundown usually offered May - August. Start Day June 1, 2019
June
Start Day May 18, 2019 Program Times: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
May - August Program Begins: 6/1/2019 Program Ends: 9/30/2019
Program Times: 9:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. Cost: Free
Cost: Free Ages for Program: 8 years and above
Ages for Program: 4 - 99 years old Location: Clare and Miles Mills Rose Garden
Location: parks around the city
Kids in Parks - May 18th
Saturday, May 18 – Gray’s Lake Park (National Kids to Parks Day) The City of Des Moines is celebrating National Kids in Parks Day on Saturday,
(2101 Fleur Drive) May 18 at Gray’s Lake Park. This is a national day of outdoor play celebrated
by parks, cities, and towns nationwide. Thousands of families across the
Thursday, June 6 – Witmer Park (1610 34th Street) United States will be celebrating along with Des Moines. Here is a list of the
activities that are part of the celebration!
Thursday, June 13 – Grandview Park (3230 Easton Boulevard)
10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. – $1 Bike and Boat Rentals
Thursday, June 20 – Evergreen Park (2000 Evergreen Avenue)
Enjoy a 30-minute bike or boat rental for just $1 all day from 10 a.m. -
8 p.m. Rentals are located at the concessions window just below the Christine
Thursday, June 27 – Bates Park (330 Clark Street)
Hensley Terrace.
Saturday, July 6 – Park Madness Winner (TBD)
10:00 a.m. – Plant.Grow.Fly. (Butterfly Garden Planting)
Des Moines Parks and Recreation is helping Monarch butterflies and
Thursday, July 11 – Woodlawn Park (3200 38th Street)
pollinators in our city parks and you can help too. From 10:00 a.m. - 12:00
p.m. will be a Plant.Grow.Fly. event at the Christine Hensley Terrace. Sign up
Thursday, July 18 – Belle Turner Park (800 Jerlynn Avenue)
to be part of the program and not only will you help create the a new Butterfly
Garden with native Iowa species, but you will make a butterfly friendly planter
Thursday, July 25 – Brenton Skating Plaza (520 Robert D. Ray Drive)
to take home with you on the same day. Be prepared to get your hands dirty
and do a little work to help out Monarchs and pollinators. Registration for
Thursday, August 1 – Cheatom Park (1100 Day Street)
the event is limit to 25 participants and there is a fee of $10 per take home
planter created. Everyone is welcome, anyone under 16 years of age must
Saturday, August 10 – Ewing Park (Star Party - Lilac Arboretum)
be accompanied by an adult.
(5300 Indianola Avenue)
8:30 p.m. – Free Flicks Movie Series – This will serve as the kickoff event
to the 2019 Free Flicks Movie Series. The movie will start at approximately
8:30 p.m. on the southeast lawn. Families are encouraged to bring chairs or
blankets to sit out under the stars to enjoy this unique opportunity at Gray’s
Lake Park.
38 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 39Bookwalk
Bookwalk, the collaborative program with the Des Moines Public Library
returns this summer. You don’t have to sit down to enjoy a good book; read
along while enjoying a different book each month at a different park.
May – Planting a Rainbow – Waveland Trail Bike Back to School - August 3rd
June – Growing Vegetable Soup – Evelyn K. Davis Park Bike Back to School is presented in partnership by the Des Moines Police
July – One Duck Stuck – Gray’s Lake Park Department, Des Moines Street Collective and Des Moines Parks and
August – In the Small, Small Pond – Sargent Park Recreation. A minimum of 50 bikes will be given away to the first 50 eligible
children based on qualifications for free and reduced school lunch. Helmets,
locks and lessons will also be provided.
Tour DM Parks Program Times: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
This July, Des Moines Parks and Recreation is once again celebrating
National Parks and Recreation Month by inviting residents to get out and Cost: Free
take a tour of our parks, trails and facilities with “Tour DM Parks.” From July Ages for Program: 4 years old and older
1 - 31 participants can visit 31 designated spots in the park system and share a Location: Police station, West entrance
photo on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram with the hashtag #tourdmparks2019.
Those who visit all 31 locations are eligible to compete to win the grand prize
of $1,000 CASH courtesy of the Friends of Des Moines Parks.
Nature Trail Running Series
For the full tour itinerary, contest information and mobile friendly map, visit Runners of all levels, explore with Fleet Feet Sports Des Moines and the
dmparks.org/tourdmparks. Capital Striders, nature trails in our park system.
Start Day August 21, 2019
Youth Music Summer Camp Wednesdays for 4 weeks
The Des Moines Music Coalition in collaboration with the City of Des Moines
Parks and Recreation Department, presents an exceptional opportunity for Program Times: 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
middle school students to meet new friends and have an education and fun Cost: Free
music experience - join our talented teachers at Hip Hop or Rock and Roll Ages for Program: 18 and above
Camp! In a hands-on setting, camp staff will lead students to form bands,
Ewing, Greenwood &
learn songs, rehearse a program and put on a LIVE rock show! Two live Location:
Grandview Parks
performances: Thursday, June 27 at Hoyt Middle School and Friday, July 12
at 80/35 Music Festival.
Start Day June 17, 2019
Hip Hop - 9 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.,
Rock - 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.,
Program Times:
Final Performance at 6 p.m. on
6/27/19
Registration Begins: 3/1/2019 Registration Ends: 6/10/2019
Cost: $40 per individual, per section
Ages for Program: 11-15
Hoyt Middle School (Class and
Location:
Final Performance)
40 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.org For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 41Community Garden Volunteer
Community Garden Registration -
Open Registration
The 2019 open reservation period will begin April 1, 2019. Both returning
gardeners and/or new gardeners may rent whatever plots are available in an Cache in Trash Out - April 20th
effort to keep the garden full, maintained and weed-free. We will continue to Give back, clean-up and find the “cached” prizes. Join us Easter weekend to
place new gardeners in 2019 as plots open up. Please check our availability go on a fun family eco-hunt. City of Des Moines Parks and Recreation, Iowa
or let us know if you are interested in renting a plot. Geocacher’s Association, Westwood Neighborhood Association, Walnut
Creek Watershed Coalition, and other concerned citizens invite you on our
unique hunt for trash. Help improve our creeks and Central Iowa’s water
Start Day April 1, 2019 quality!
April 1 - November 15
Program Times: All Day Program Times: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Our open registration period begins April 1 and any Cost: Free
remaining available plots will be open to fill. Please check Ages for Program: All Ages
availability online at dmparks.org.
Meeting at Pal Joey’s and walking
Cost: $25.00 per plot Location:
along the creek North and South
Ages for Program: Any
Franklin, Downtown and
Location:
Woodlawn Community Gardens UPCYCLE
Join the City of Des Moines Parks and Recreation, Blank Park Zoo, Iowa
National Heritage Foundation, and Trees Forever as we work to remove
invasive species and restore native prairies and woodlands. Some species
that we cut will go to Blank Park Zoo and provide food and enrichment for
their animals. Work will be done at Gray’s Lake and the first 30 volunteers
(age 21+) will receive a free drink ticket for Confluence Brewery following the
event. All materials and tools will be provided.
Start Day June 20, 2019
June 20, July 18, August 15, Sept 19 (rain date)
Program Times: 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Registration Begins: 6/20/2019 Registration Ends: 9/19/2019
Cost: Free
Ages for Program: 14 and up
Location: Gray’s Lake
Parking will be announced for
Notes: each event due to ongoing
construction at Gray’s Lake Park
For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 42 43 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.orgNature Trail Running Series
Like to run outdoors? We’re looking for volunteers to lead runners on our
trails on August 21 and September 4 and 11. Leaders will work with staff to
scout out the trail to make sure it is safe and will be the lead runner on the
designated day. Help us get more people exposed to the fun of the great
National Bike and Pedestrian outdoors! Background check required.
Documentation Project https://cityofdesmoinesparksandrecreationdepartment.volunteerlocal.
com/volunteer/?id=35546
The National Bicycle and Pedestrian Documentation Project is coming up,
and we need your help! Volunteers will monitor trail usage at priority sites
across the Des Moines trail system. Data collected from this project helps City Wednesdays, 6:00 p.m. -
Program Times:
of Des Moines staff write grants, create new trails, and improve existing trails. 8:00 p.m.
There are three opportunities to volunteer, visit dmparks.org. Ewing, Greenwood &
Location:
Grandview Parks
Start Day September 10, 2019
September 10, 11, 14
9/10 4:15 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Adopt - A - Block
Adopt-A-Block volunteers are needed at Glendale, Laurel Hill and Woodland
Program Times: 9/11 4:15 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Cemeteries. Volunteers help pick up branches, trim bushes, clear decorations,
9/14 11:15 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
monitor for vandalism, and provide general maintenance at our municipal
Mid August - Registration on cemeteries from April-October. We are seeking returning volunteers and
Registration Begins:
Volunteer Local those that are interested in helping our cemeteries to join us on April Fool’s
Registration Ends: 9/10/2019 Day, April 1 at 5:30 p.m. Cemetery Manager, Ganesh Ganpat, will provide
dinner and cover what our Adopt-A-Block program is all about.
Cost: N/A
Ages for Program: 15 and Up
Program Times: 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Location: Various Locations
Richard A. Clark Municipal
Location:
Service Center-Board Room
Yoga in the Park Instructors
Help us bring yoga to everyone in our community on Saturday mornings
June-September! Be a part of the original Des Moines’ Yoga in the Park
Memorial Day Weekend Help -
series. Instructors can volunteer one time or multiple times…whatever fits May 24th - 27th
their schedule! This year we celebrate 10 years since this amazing program Love history, working with the public and are ready to honor a national tradition
began. Yoga instructors from throughout the metro area are volunteering and those it remembers? Our local cemeteries are alive with memories and
their time to teach the weekly sessions, giving participants a different yoga volunteers can help preserve those memories and experiences. Memorial
experience each week. No registration for the class is required . . . the Day, originally known as Decoration Day, originated years following the Civil
public can just show up any or all Saturday mornings at 9:00, ready to relax, War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. The day honors men and
release and enjoy the experience. Classes will be cancelled in the event of women who died while serving the military. Many people observe the day
rain. Background Check Required. Email parksvolunteer@dmgov.org or call by visiting cemeteries or memorials and decorating graves. Over Memorial
(515)237-1386 if you are interested. Day weekend, we are seeking helpers to assist keeping our cemeteries clean
and beautiful, greeting our visitors, helping guests locate loved ones in their
June 1 - September 28 cemetery block and providing help with floral sales.
Program Times: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Program Times: 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Location: Clare and Miles Mills Rose Garden
Glendale Cemetery,
4909 University Ave.
Location:
Laurel Hill Cemetery,
3601 East Court Ave.
For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 44 45 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.orgCemetery
Decoration Clean-up and Flag Woodland
Removal - July 1st - 5th Cemetery Tours
Decoration Day began after the Civil War. After World War I, it became a Join local historian and educator Archie Cook on a tour through
way to honor those that died serving in any war or military action. Today we the grassy knolls and stately trees of one of our city’s oldest
know this holiday as Memorial Day. Many people observe the holiday by treasures. Tours (rain or shine) are recommended for those ages
visiting graves of loved ones, leaving decorations in their memory. By July, the
10 and up, last approximately 2.5 hours and are free. A donation
weather and elements have taken a toll on the decorations and they are ready
to be removed. Volunteers will assist in removing decorations and properly is suggested and will go towards the Woodland Monument
disposing of them. Training will be provided on the day of the cleanup. Restoration Project.
Volunteers will be working outside, and should be able to bend, lift and walk.
https://cityofdesmoinesparksandrecreationdepartment.volunteerlocal. Children and strollers are permitted but some sections of the tour
com/volunteer/?id=35465 will not be easily accessible for strollers due to rough terrain.
Registration is limited to 50. Visit facebook.com/desmoinesparks
Shifts: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. to select your date and sign up.
Monday, July 1st Glendale Cemetery, 4909 University Ave.
Tuesday, July 2nd Glendale Cemetery, 4909 University Ave.
Wednesday, July 3rd Glendale Cemetery, 4909 University Ave. April 13th 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Friday, July 5th Laurel Hill Cemetery, 3601 East Court Ave. May 11th 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
June 8th 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
July 13th 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Prairie Clean-up - July 19th August 17th 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
The Glendale Wildflower Scattering Area is a natural prairie located in
Glendale Cemetery. Native grasses and wildflowers create a comfortable September 14th 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
environment to scatter the remains of loved ones. Native prairie plants October 12th 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
provide deep roots that have held our rich Iowa soil together for centuries.
They also provide a diverse habitat rich with flora and fauna that visitors can
enjoy while at the cemetery. However, some prairie plants can grow so tall
that they start to fall over into the walking path. Volunteers will work with staff
to cut back plants along the paths to make our visitor’s experience much more
relaxed and enjoyable. Join us for a morning along the prairie enjoying the
summer sun and nature.
https://cityofdesmoinesparksandrecreationdepartment.volunteerlocal.
com/volunteer/?id=35468
Program Times: 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Glendale Cemetery,
Location:
4909 University Ave.
For questions about our programs or shelter rentals, call 515-237-1386 | 46 47 | Register online and find program/event information at dmparks.orgYou can also read
