Looking for things to do in Des Moines this weekend? Check out this list of all the events happening in the Des Moines area this weekend, April 15-17.
Disclaimer: Events are subject to change or sell out. Please contact the businesses directly to confirm availability via the links below.
Featured Image Photography: Matthew Shankles, Hidden DSM
Friday, April 15
- Friday, April 15, 8 p.m.
- Des Moines Civic Center, 221 Walnut St. ,Des Moines, IA 50309
“Chelsea Handler is a comedian, television host, best-selling author and advocate whose humor and candor have established her as one of the most celebrated voices in entertainment and pop culture. In 2021, Chelsea embarked on the Vaccinated and Horny Tour, bringing her sensational stand-up set to 40+ cities across the nation including a stop at the Des Moines Civic Center.”
- All weekend!
- Des Moines Art Center, 4700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312
If you’re feeling artsy, check out this amazing “Immersive” art exhibit at the Des Moines Art Center. This’ll be the Art Center like you’ve never seen it before. “Instead of moving through traditional gallery spaces, one will follow a path from darkened space to darkened space, each filled with light, color, and sound.” The exhibit opens this weekend and takes a page from the “immersive” art trend that’s growing, like the Van Gogh experience that’s coming to Des Moines later this year. Source: Axios
Opening Weekend: Iowa Cubs Games
- Games all weekend!
- Principal Park, 1 Line Dr, Des Moines, IA 50309
The Iowa Cubs are back in season and in town so expect fireworks Friday night. Grab tickets to watch them take on the Louisville Bats.
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Wednesday – Sunday, 7:30 pm – 10 pm, through May 30!
- Blank Park Zoo, 7401 SW 9th Street, Des Moines, IA 50315
“Blank Park Zoo’s Wild Lights Festival presented by MidAmerican Energy Company is returning with a new theme, new lanterns and a few fan favorites. Immerse your family in light and culture in a visually stunning festival of over 40 larger-than-life illuminated lanterns featuring endangered animals, Asian mythical creatures and more. Each display is designed and fabricated by artisans and will thrill you.”
Saturday, April 16
- Saturday, April 16, 11:00 a.m.
- Storyhouse Bookpub, 505 E Grand Ave Suite 102, Des Moines, IA 50309
Another family friendly event! Meet in the bookstore for stories before heading over to our neighbors at @raygunshirts for a family egg hunt.
Easter Bake Sale with Bay Laurel Baking Co.
- Saturday, April 16, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. (or sell out!)
- 1316 41st St. Des Moines, IA, 50311
Need some last minute Easter goodies? Don’t miss Bay Laurel Baking Co’s pop-up. Here’s the menu: Carrot Cake Cupcakes w/Browned Butter Frosting and Salted Caramel Drizzle, Cinnamon Rolls, Twice Baked Almond Croissants, Orange Blossom Sables and Gougeres.
- Surety Hotel, 206 6th Ave. Des Moines, IA, 50309
- Saturday, April 16, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Good Vibes Movement (GVM) is a local organization providing resources, support & enrichment to the people of Des Moines. GVM serves a diverse and underrepresented community, located in the Riverbend and King Irving neighborhoods, as well as youth citywide. To support their community and youth outreach, PLEASE donate $10 at door for the class. You get a free mimosa at brunch after, so you’re doing good for the community and getting your buzz on. Don’t forget your mats!
All 80’s Happy Hour at Nightingale Cocktail
- Saturday, April 16, 5-9 p.m.
- Nightingale Cocktail, 435 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
Sunday, April 17
Reframing Racial Justice in Creative Communities at Mainframe Studios
- Sunday, April 17, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Mainframe Studios, 900 Keosauqua Way, Des Moines, IA 50309
Join Mainframe Studios featuring Jordan W. Brooks for his talk: Creative Approach to Identity. Attendees will explore the ways in which creativity, when coupled with truth telling and shared vision, can mobilize resistance to various forms of oppression and influence sustainable change for communities. Free and open to the public with snacks and refreshments!
- Harbinger, 2724 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312
- Sunday, April 17, 4-8 p.m.
One night only! Get incredible Korean friend chicken, kimchi fried rice, sticky ribs and more inside Harbinger on Sunday nights from 4-8 p.m. It makes for the perfect Sunday dinner. Dine in only!
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