Jun 23, 2026 - News
Ask Axios: What Des Moines metro city has the best fireworks?
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Illustration: Aïda Amer/Axios
"Where do I go on the Fourth of July to see the most fireworks in Des Moines?
- "Who typically has the biggest fireworks show in the Metro? Is anyone promising a bigger-than-usual show for 250?" —Andy Heiting-Doane, Clive
Answer: Andy has some big decisions to make about these free events.
🎆 Biggest event
Yankee Doodle Pops at the Iowa State Capitol on July 3.
- The Greater DSM Partnership describes it as Iowa's premier single-day concert event, which includes a large fireworks display over downtown.
- 8:30pm-midnight.
🎉 Big celebrations
Urbandale 4th of July Celebration is three days, starting with vendors and midway rides at 4pm July 2.
- It ends with fireworks at 10pm on July 4 from the west side of Walker Johnston Park.
Waukee's Independence Day Celebration begins with games on July 3 at Centennial Park.
- Pancake breakfast, parade, vendors and free entertainment on July 4 with fireworks starting at 9:30pm
Prairie Meadows' Stars & Stripes celebration includes free entertainment and fireworks on July 3.
- Altoona's parade begins at 10am on July 4, with Adventureland's fireworks that evening, which require admission to watch from the amusement park.
🧨 More bang
West Des Moines officials decided to "up their game" by elevating their event to celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary.
- A parade begins at 6:30pm on July 3 at Valley West Drive and Ashworth Road, followed by a concert and drone show at WDM City Campus.
- The July 4 concert and celebration at Jordan Creek Town Center start at 5pm, with fireworks at 9:45pm.
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