Dead Moines no more
Although summer is quickly coming to a close, the list of things to do in central Iowa certainly is not. With so many entertainment events to choose from each week, one simply can’t hit them all. We recently talked with organizers who have been disappointed with turnout at recent events, and they attribute the reason to other numerous events going on at the same time.
It’s hard to believe that there may be too much to do in Des Moines, but that appears to be the case. A look through this week’s Cityview proves our point.
The Salisbury House is having a celebration of the fine art and designs of the automobile on Sunday. The Des Moines firefighters are hosting Firefest 2010 on Saturday on the Court Avenue bridge. The Des Moines Renaissance Faire will take place the next three weekends at Sleepy Hollow Sports Park. “The Drowsy Chaperone” plays at The Des Moines Playhouse through Oct. 3. Lil’ Ed & The Blues Imperials are playing at Blues on Grand on Saturday. Rock & Toss bean bag tournament and free rock concert is being held Saturday at the Walnut Street Bridge. The Briar Patch Benefit Show, featuring eight local bands, will be Saturday night at People’s Court. The film “16 to Life,” which was shot entirely in Iowa, is opening this weekend and a special screening with the director and stars will be at the Fleur Cinema on Saturday. Or you can eat, drink, dance, shop or watch movies at more places than ever before in Des Moines’ history.
Not too many years ago, our fine city was often referred to as Dead Moines because of the perceived lack of things to do here. At times, the name fit, but with residents now having to choose between a dozen or more things they would like to do, some of the events will simply not succeed. That is truly unfortunate, as much money and time has been invested to make these events happen, often at little or no profit. But, as with most things in life, the weakest will die and the strongest will survive. We must understand this along with the cycles of entertainment, meaning that the best events will eventually die off only to be replaced by the newest, latest and greatest. Through it all, we simply hope that good ideas are not stifled and that central Iowa’s most energetic and enthusiastic planners will continue to offer and promote events to keep us all entertained. CV
