Des Moines, Iowa TV Guide: Comprehensive Listings (April 29, 2026)
Discover complete TV listings for Des Moines, Iowa, on April 29, 2026, featuring channels like WOI (5․1-5․7), KCCI, WHO, and more—access schedules via weareiowa․com and TVTV․us!
Overview of the Des Moines TV Market
The Des Moines, Iowa, television market is served by a variety of local stations and network affiliates, providing viewers with diverse programming options․ As of April 29, 2026, the market includes key players like WOI-TV (ABC), KCCI-TV (CBS), WHO-TV (NBC), and FOX 28 (KFXA)․ Additionally, Univision Iowa (KDSM) caters to Spanish-speaking audiences, while PBS Iowa (KPTH) offers educational and cultural content․
The market’s landscape is also shaped by digital subchannels, expanding viewing choices beyond traditional network programming․ Stations like WOI-TV boast multiple digital channels – 5․1 through 5․7 – featuring content ranging from local news and entertainment to specialized networks like True Crime Network, Grit, TheNest, Confess, and QVC․ Viewers can access comprehensive TV schedules through online resources such as weareiowa․com and TVTV․us, ensuring they stay informed about their favorite shows and local broadcasts․ The influence of the Twin Cities TV market also subtly impacts Des Moines programming and viewership trends․
Local Channels & Network Affiliations
Des Moines, Iowa, benefits from strong local television channels affiliated with major networks․ WOI-TV operates as the local ABC affiliate on channel 5, delivering national programming alongside local news and community content․ KCCI-TV proudly serves as the CBS affiliate on channel 8, offering a similar blend of network shows and regional coverage․ WHO-TV, channel 13, brings NBC’s programming to the area, completing the trifecta of major networks․
FOX 28 (KFXA) provides entertainment and sports programming, while Univision Iowa (KDSM) caters specifically to the Spanish-speaking community․ For educational and cultural programming, viewers turn to PBS Iowa (KPTH)․ These affiliations ensure Des Moines residents have access to a wide range of nationally recognized shows and locally produced content, strengthening community ties and providing diverse viewing options․
Digital Subchannels Available in Des Moines
Beyond the primary network channels, Des Moines viewers enjoy a wealth of programming through digital subchannels․ WOI-TV, for example, broadcasts several additional channels․ 5․2 is dedicated to the True Crime Network, offering captivating investigations․ 5․3 features Grit, showcasing action and adventure films․ 5․4 presents TheNest, focusing on lifestyle and entertainment content․
Further expanding options, 5․5 repeats or adds to Local 5 programming, 5․6 delves into Confess – true crime stories, and 5․7 hosts QVC, a popular shopping network․ These subchannels significantly increase viewing choices, providing niche content catering to diverse interests beyond traditional network schedules․ Accessing these requires a digital tuner or digital cable/satellite service․
WOI-TV (ABC 5) Programming
WOI-TV, the local ABC affiliate, serves Des Moines with a blend of national and local programming․ Viewers can expect the standard ABC lineup, including primetime shows, news broadcasts, and sports coverage․ However, WOI significantly expands its offerings through multiple digital subchannels – 5․1 through 5․7․
5․1 delivers the core Local 5 schedule, while the others cater to specific tastes․ Check weareiowa․com for detailed daily listings․ Beyond network shows, WOI prioritizes local news and weather, keeping Des Moines residents informed․ The station’s commitment to community coverage makes it a vital source of information and entertainment for central Iowa households․
5․1 Local 5 Schedule Highlights
Local 5, broadcasting on digital channel 5․1, anchors WOI-TV’s programming with a robust schedule of local news, weather, and community-focused content․ Expect in-depth coverage of Iowa news stories, investigative reports, and live breaking news updates throughout the day․ Primetime programming features ABC’s nationally recognized shows, offering a mix of dramas, comedies, and reality television․
Morning and evening news blocks are key components, providing viewers with essential information to start and end their days․ Sports enthusiasts can find coverage of local high school and college athletics․ For a precise, up-to-the-minute schedule, consult weareiowa․com, ensuring you don’t miss your favorite programs on Local 5․
5․2 True Crime Network – What to Expect
WOI-TV’s digital subchannel 5․2 is dedicated to the True Crime Network, delivering a constant stream of captivating and often chilling programming for true crime aficionados․ Viewers can anticipate a diverse selection of shows focusing on investigations, forensic analysis, and compelling narratives of real-life criminal cases․
The network features both original productions and acquired series, offering a broad spectrum of true crime content․ Expect detailed examinations of infamous crimes, profiles of criminals, and explorations of the psychological aspects of criminal behavior․ For those fascinated by the darker side of human nature, 5․2 provides a continuous source of gripping and thought-provoking entertainment․
5․3 Grit – Action & Adventure Programming
WOI-TV’s digital subchannel 5․3, Grit, is a haven for fans of classic and contemporary action and adventure programming․ This channel delivers a robust lineup of movies and series geared towards those who enjoy thrilling storylines, heroic characters, and pulse-pounding excitement․ Expect a consistent flow of action-packed entertainment, appealing to a broad audience seeking adrenaline-fueled viewing․
Grit typically features a mix of Westerns, action films, and adventure series, often showcasing iconic actors and memorable cinematic moments․ The channel’s programming leans towards a rugged and gritty aesthetic, offering a refreshing alternative to mainstream entertainment․ Viewers can anticipate a steady stream of high-octane content on 5․3․
5․4 TheNest – Lifestyle & Entertainment
WOI-TV’s digital subchannel 5․4, TheNest, provides a diverse range of lifestyle and entertainment programming for Des Moines viewers․ This channel caters to those seeking content beyond traditional news and sports, offering a blend of home improvement shows, cooking programs, and engaging entertainment series․ Expect a focus on aspirational living and feel-good content․
TheNest often features reality shows centered around design, renovation, and culinary arts, alongside classic sitcoms and lighthearted dramas․ It’s a destination for viewers looking for inspiration, relaxation, and a break from heavier programming․ The channel aims to create a comfortable and inviting viewing experience, offering something for everyone in the household on digital channel 5․4․
5․5 Local 5 (Repeat/Additional Programming)
WOI-TV’s digital subchannel 5․5, branded as Local 5, serves as a valuable resource for Des Moines viewers seeking encore presentations of popular local news segments, weather updates, and investigative reports originally aired on the main 5․1 channel․ This provides an opportunity to catch up on important stories or revisit favorite features at convenient times․
Beyond repeats, Local 5 often broadcasts extended interviews, community event coverage, and additional content not included in the primary newscasts․ It’s a hub for hyper-local programming, strengthening WOI’s commitment to serving the Des Moines area․ Viewers can expect a mix of familiar faces and in-depth coverage on digital channel 5․5, complementing the core news offerings․
5․6 Confess – True Crime Stories
Channel 5․6 on WOI-TV is dedicated to Confess, a captivating digital subchannel specializing in immersive true crime programming․ Viewers in Des Moines can delve into gripping documentaries, compelling investigations, and dramatic reenactments of real-life criminal cases․ Confess offers a diverse range of content, from notorious serial killer profiles to lesser-known mysteries and unsolved disappearances․
The channel caters to a growing audience fascinated by the psychology of crime and the pursuit of justice․ Expect in-depth analysis, expert commentary, and compelling storytelling that explores the complexities of each case․ Confess provides a constant stream of suspenseful and thought-provoking true crime content for Des Moines residents․
5․7 QVC – Shopping Network
Channel 5․7 on WOI-TV broadcasts QVC, the renowned shopping network, bringing a diverse array of products directly to Des Moines viewers․ Throughout the day, QVC presents live programming featuring demonstrations, expert guests, and exclusive deals on everything from fashion and beauty to home goods and electronics․
Viewers can discover new items, learn about innovative products, and conveniently purchase goods from the comfort of their homes․ QVC often features well-known brands and personalities, creating an engaging and interactive shopping experience․ Expect frequent special offers, limited-time promotions, and easy payment options, making QVC a popular choice for convenient retail therapy in Des Moines․
KCCI-TV (CBS 8) Schedule
KCCI-TV, the CBS affiliate serving Des Moines, Iowa, delivers a robust schedule of national news, entertainment, and local programming․ Primetime typically features CBS’s flagship shows, including dramas, comedies, and reality competitions․ Daytime programming includes CBS Mornings and popular syndicated talk and game shows, providing a mix of information and entertainment for daytime viewers․
Local news broadcasts are a cornerstone of KCCI’s schedule, offering comprehensive coverage of events across the Des Moines metropolitan area․ Expect in-depth weather reports, investigative journalism, and community-focused stories․ Sports enthusiasts can find coverage of local and national sporting events․ Check weareiowa․com for the most up-to-date and detailed schedule information․
WHO-TV (NBC 13) Programming
WHO-TV, the NBC affiliate for Des Moines, Iowa, presents a diverse lineup of nationally broadcast and locally produced content․ Prime time generally showcases NBC’s acclaimed dramas, hit comedies, and live event coverage, appealing to a broad audience․ Daytime programming includes NBC News, along with syndicated programs offering lifestyle content and game shows․
Local news is a key component of WHO-TV’s schedule, delivering timely reports on regional happenings, weather updates, and investigative pieces․ Sports coverage includes both local high school and professional sports, alongside national broadcasts․ For precise scheduling details, including specific showtimes and special programming, viewers are encouraged to consult weareiowa․com for the latest information․
FOX 28 (KFXA) – Entertainment & Sports
FOX 28, serving the Des Moines, Iowa market, focuses heavily on entertainment and sports programming․ Primetime slots are typically filled with FOX network’s popular shows, including dramas, comedies, and animated series․ The station also broadcasts live sporting events, such as NFL football, MLB baseball, and NASCAR races, attracting a dedicated sports viewership․
Beyond network programming, FOX 28 often features syndicated entertainment shows and local sports coverage․ News programming provides local perspectives, though it’s generally less extensive than major network affiliates․ To stay current with the precise schedule, including game times and show listings, viewers should regularly check online resources like weareiowa․com for the most up-to-date information․
Univision Iowa (KDSM) – Spanish-Language Programming
Univision Iowa (KDSM) is a key provider of Spanish-language television programming for the Des Moines metropolitan area․ The station broadcasts a diverse range of content, including telenovelas – popular Spanish-language soap operas – news programs originating from Univision’s national network, and a variety of entertainment shows catered to a Hispanic audience․
KDSM also features local programming, often including community events and public affairs segments addressing issues relevant to the local Hispanic community․ Sports programming, such as soccer matches, is frequently aired․ Viewers seeking detailed schedules, including specific show times and program descriptions, can consult online TV guides like TVTV․us to ensure they don’t miss their favorite shows․
PBS Iowa (KPTH) – Educational & Cultural Content
PBS Iowa (KPTH) serves as a vital resource for educational and cultural programming in the Des Moines area․ The station offers a diverse lineup, including nationally syndicated PBS shows like “Masterpiece,” “Nova,” and “Nature,” alongside locally produced content focused on Iowa’s history, arts, and public issues․
KPTH is committed to providing programming for all ages, with dedicated blocks for children’s educational shows․ Viewers can expect documentaries, news and public affairs programs, and performances from the arts․ To find specific program schedules and detailed listings, viewers are encouraged to visit online TV guides such as weareiowa․com or TVTV․us, ensuring access to enriching and informative content․
Accessing TV Listings Online
Staying informed about Des Moines television schedules is easier than ever with numerous online resources․ weareiowa․com provides a comprehensive TV schedule, including detailed listings for channels like WOI (with its digital subchannels 5․1 through 5․7 – Local 5, True Crime Network, Grit, TheNest, and QVC)․ This site allows viewers to easily browse programs by channel and time․
Alternatively, TVTV․us offers both national and local listings, providing a broader perspective on available programming․ These websites are invaluable tools for planning your viewing, ensuring you don’t miss your favorite shows or important local news broadcasts; Regularly checking these resources guarantees access to the most up-to-date information․
weareiowa․com TV Schedule
weareiowa․com serves as a primary hub for Des Moines television schedules, offering a user-friendly interface to explore local programming․ The site prominently features the WOI-TV schedule, detailing broadcasts across all its digital subchannels․ Viewers can find specific times for 5․1 Local 5 news and shows, alongside programming on 5․2 True Crime Network, 5․3 Grit (action & adventure), 5․4 TheNest (lifestyle & entertainment), 5․5 Local 5 repeats, 5․6 Confess (true crime), and 5․7 QVC shopping․
The schedule is regularly updated, ensuring accuracy for daily viewing plans․ Beyond WOI, the website also lists programming for other local stations, providing a centralized resource for the entire Des Moines TV market․ It’s a convenient tool for both casual viewers and dedicated television enthusiasts․
TVTV․us – National & Local Listings
TVTV․us provides a comprehensive television listing service, encompassing both national broadcasts and localized schedules for cities like Des Moines, Iowa․ This platform allows users to “find out what’s on TV tonight in America,” offering a broad overview of available programming․ For Des Moines viewers, TVTV․us details schedules across various channels, supplementing resources like weareiowa․com․
The site’s strength lies in its ability to aggregate information from multiple sources, presenting a unified and searchable TV guide․ Users can easily navigate by channel, time, or program title․ While it doesn’t focus exclusively on Des Moines, it’s a valuable tool for discovering shows and confirming broadcast times, offering a wider perspective than purely local listings․
Streaming Options for Des Moines Viewers
Beyond traditional over-the-air and cable television, Des Moines viewers have a growing array of streaming options․ Major platforms like Hulu, Netflix, Disney+, and Paramount+ offer on-demand access to a vast library of shows and movies, often including next-day availability of network programming․ These services frequently feature content from the major networks affiliated with local stations – ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX․
Live TV streaming services, such as YouTube TV, Sling TV, and FuboTV, provide a cable-like experience, including live broadcasts of local channels (availability varies by location and subscription tier)․ These options allow viewers to watch local news, sports, and events without a traditional cable box․ Exploring these platforms expands viewing choices beyond standard TV listings․
Over-the-Air (OTA) Reception in Des Moines
Des Moines residents can access free, high-definition television through over-the-air (OTA) reception, utilizing an antenna․ This method delivers signals from local broadcast stations – WOI (ABC 5), KCCI (CBS 8), WHO (NBC 13), and FOX 28 (KFXA) – without monthly subscription fees․ Signal strength varies depending on location and antenna type; urban areas generally experience better reception than rural locations․
Digital subchannels, like those offered by WOI (5․2-5․7), are also accessible via OTA․ An HD antenna is recommended to receive these digital signals․ Factors like building materials and terrain can impact reception quality, potentially requiring antenna adjustments or upgrades․ Resources like AntennaWeb can help determine optimal antenna placement and signal availability․
Understanding Digital TV Channels
Digital TV channels in Des Moines, like those broadcast by WOI-TV, utilize the ATSC (Advanced Television Systems Committee) standard, delivering improved picture and sound quality compared to analog signals․ These channels are identified by a number followed by a decimal and another number (e․g․, 5․1, 5․2), representing the main channel and its subchannels․
WOI-TV, for instance, broadcasts on 5․1 (Local 5), with additional content on 5;2 (True Crime Network), 5․3 (Grit), 5․4 (TheNest), 5․5 (Local 5 repeat), 5․6 (Confess), and 5․7 (QVC)․ These subchannels offer diverse programming options beyond the primary network feed․ A digital tuner, built into most modern TVs, is required to receive these signals, providing access to a wider range of content․
FCC Information for Des Moines Stations
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates broadcast television in Des Moines, Iowa, overseeing licensing, technical standards, and public interest obligations for stations like WOI-TV, KCCI-TV, and WHO-TV․ The FCC website provides detailed information on each station’s license, ownership, and any enforcement actions taken․
Recent FCC filings indicate activity within the Upper Midwest broadcasting landscape, including adjustments to power levels for stations like KSTP(AM) and KNWS․ The FCC also monitors combinations like the proposed Nexstar/Tegna merger, ensuring compliance with antitrust regulations․ Furthermore, the FCC addresses issues related to silent AM stations and operational changes, such as Twin Cities PBS taking over a Southern Minnesota station, impacting the regional TV market․
Recent Developments in the Des Moines TV Market
The Des Moines television market has seen notable shifts recently, mirroring broader industry trends․ Ongoing scrutiny of large broadcaster combinations, such as the Nexstar/Tegna deal, impacts local ownership and potential programming changes․ Several Upper Midwest stations have operated at reduced power, affecting signal strength for viewers, while others, like KNWS, have sought adjustments to their operational parameters․
Local broadcaster acquisitions are also shaping the landscape; a silent Omaha AM station was recently purchased, hinting at potential revitalization․ Furthermore, the influence of the Twin Cities TV market continues to be felt, with PBS stations expanding their reach into Southern Minnesota․ These developments, alongside FCC monitoring of station performance, contribute to a dynamic TV environment in Des Moines․
Des Moines Radio Station Information (Related Media)
While focusing on television, it’s important to acknowledge the interconnectedness of local media in Des Moines․ Recent FCC actions regarding radio stations, such as KSTP(AM) operating at reduced power, demonstrate ongoing regulatory oversight impacting broadcasting across platforms․ The addition of night service for KNWS signifies efforts to enhance listener reach, mirroring TV stations’ pursuit of optimal signal coverage․
The radio market often reflects similar ownership trends as television; acquisitions and consolidations are common․ Understanding the radio landscape provides a broader context for the Des Moines media environment․ Both TV and radio stations serve as vital sources of local news, entertainment, and emergency information for the community, creating a synergistic relationship between the two mediums․
Local Broadcaster News & Acquisitions
The Des Moines television market, like many others, experiences periodic shifts in ownership and operational control․ Recent reports indicate a local broadcaster purchasing a silent AM station in Omaha, signaling expansion and consolidation within the upper Midwest broadcasting sphere․ Simultaneously, Twin Cities PBS assuming operations of a Southern Minnesota station highlights a trend of regional collaboration and resource sharing․
These developments, alongside the ongoing hold on the Nexstar/Tegna combination, demonstrate the dynamic nature of the industry․ Such changes can influence programming decisions, local news coverage, and ultimately, the viewing options available to Des Moines residents․ Monitoring these acquisitions and transitions is crucial for understanding the evolving media landscape․
Twin Cities TV Influence on Des Moines Market
Des Moines’ television market isn’t entirely isolated; it experiences considerable influence from the larger Twin Cities (Minneapolis-St․ Paul) media landscape․ This impact manifests in several ways, including signal reach, programming preferences, and even broadcaster operations․ The recent takeover of a Southern Minnesota station by Twin Cities PBS demonstrates a direct expansion of influence into neighboring markets․
Furthermore, news and entertainment trends originating in the Twin Cities often quickly permeate Des Moines viewership․ Several new faces appearing on Twin Cities TV can foreshadow potential talent shifts or programming styles adopted by Des Moines stations․ This interconnectedness highlights the regional nature of broadcasting and the flow of media content․