Five Things to Do This Weekend

1. COWBOY MUSIC

Where/When: , 3700 Dennis Drive, Urbandale, Friday at 7 p.m.

Why Go: Cowboy music isn't a genre that is much in demand, but Marshall Mitchell will play other party songs as well as vintage cowboy songs on his accoustic guitar. http://marshallmitchell.com/

Price: Free

2. URBANDALE HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL

Where/When: Urbandale Varsity boys and girls basketball teams open their season at the Kiwanis Annual Basketball Jamboree at Southeast Polk High School, 7945 N.E. University Ave. Friday. Girls game is at 6:30 p.m.; boys at 7:10 p.m. 

Why Go: Both teams will play Ames teams. The all-day event raises money for the Ronald McDonald house in Mercy Hospital Medical Center.

Price: $5 per person for each game.

3. 33rd ANNUAL LIVING HISTORY FARMS OFF-ROAD RACES 

Where/When: , Saturday, 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Why Go: It's the biggest cross-country race in North America. Some 7,400 people will run across fields, streams and ditches at the Farms - many of them in costumes. It's quite a spectacle, but parking is very limited if you want to watch the 9 a.m. race, which is only open to VIPs who want to pay $100. Cyclo-cross races at 1:30pm that afternoon are still open. Race day registration is $40. VIP $100, go to the head of the pack.

Price: Spectators can watch for free as long as they stay off the course. There is no alcohol allowed.

4. URBANDALE LEAF DROP OFF

Where/When: Urbandale Public Works Facility, 9401 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, Saturday 8am-12pm

Why Go: This is the last weekend, that residents may bring leaves in any paper yard waste bag. Containers and plastic bags will also be allowed as long as the yard waste is emptied. Bring ID that shows you are an Urbandale resident.

Price: FREE

5. SELECTIONS FROM THE NUTCRACKER

Where/When: , address, Urbandale, Sunday, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., Meeting Room A/B

Why Go:  This might be an especially good way to expose young children to the magic of the Nutcracker without having to worry whether they can sit through the whole ballet. Ballet Des Moines dancers will perform short selections from this holiday classic.

Price: FREE