Check out this list of events happening in the Des Moines area this weekend, March 31 – April 2. We’ve curated the ones that we found most interesting and listed them here for you. Looking for live music? We have a separate guide for that. Click here to read the live music guide! 

Disclaimer: Events are subject to change or sell out. Please contact the businesses directly to confirm availability via the links below.


FEATURED EVENT:  Wedding Showcase at The Rewind Hotel

  • Sunday, April 2, 12-3 p.m.
  • The Rewind Hotel, 6075 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines, IA 50266

An event connecting brides with wedding vendors in the heart of West Des Moines! Come experience all that The Rewind Hotel has to offer for your special day while you sip, sample and gather ideas. Mingle with local wedding professionals/vendors, tour our unique event spaces, bridal suites & more! Follow us on social media for details & sneak peeks along the way. We look forward to showing you our versatile spaces while connecting you with some of our favorite vendors! FREE ADMISSION—RSVP required.


Friday, March 31


Opening Night: Iowa Cubs

  • 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 Columbus Clippers. 


Surety Unveiled

  • Friday, March 31, 4-7 p.m.
  • Surety Hotel, 206 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
 
 
 
 
 
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Draw & Sip with author Denise Williams by Storyhouse Bookpub

  • Friday, March 31, 6 p.m.
  • Storyhouse Bookpub, 505 E Grand Ave. Suite 102, Des Moines, IA 50309
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Trans Day of Visibility

  • Friday, March 31
  • Check the post for events in your area!
 
 
 
 
 
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LAST ONE: Dome After Dark at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

  • Friday, March 31, 6-10 p.m.
  • Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, 909 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines, Iowa 50309
Experience the Garden in a new light at Dome After Dark! It’s honestly very pretty and a great date idea. Stroll through the lush conservatory and Gardeners Show House illuminated with unique lighting and luminarias. This family friendly event will include food and drink available for purchase from Trellis Café.  It’s also a great low-cost date night idea. Normal admission rates apply!
 

Midnight Munchies at Creme

  • Friday, March 31 and Saturday, April 1, Late night hours until midnight!
  • Creme, 543 28th St, Des Moines, IA 50312

Des Moines needed this! So excited to see this late night dessert bar option with great sweets and drinks perfect for a date or date with yourself night. We also love Creme in the daytime for a quick break, loading up on local sweets, or sending some quick emails.


  • Friday, March 31, 11 p.m. – close
  • Teehee’s Comedy Club, 1433 Walnut St., Des Moines, IA 50309

Karaoke for a cause? Yes, please. Sign us up! Put your shower singing skills to the test at Teehee’s Comedy Club every Friday from 11 p.m. to close. Admission is free and all performer tips will be donated to an awesome charity they’ve chosen for the week!


Saturday, April 1


  • Saturday, April 1, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
  • MIX Creative Community, 1271 8th St. Suite 500, West Des Moines, IA 50265

MIX Creative Community is hosting their first workshop event! Emily Elisabeth will be leading the class “Art for Mental Health.” No artistic experience is necessary, just come with an open mind and open heart. You’ll explore a variety of mediums and practices that will help facilitate relaxation and introspection. At the end of class, you’ll have a full sketchbook and fresh vision! Secure your spot today!

  • Saturday, April 1, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
  • Smokey Row, 1910 Cottage Grove Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314

Willette Holt will be leading a generative workshop examining the Maya Angelou poem “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.” In the workshop, you can expect to discuss themes, structure, and poetic devices then apply what you’ve learned to your own works. Tickets are only $15 and spots are filling up fast so get your ticket today!


  • Saturday, April 1, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. 
  • VZZ Vintage, 340 SW 5th St. #123, Des Moines, IA 50309

VZZ Vintage is celebrating their first anniversary with a party! Come to the store and help them celebrate and shop in-store specials! Guest pop-up Pints by Beth will be serving up ice cream for $5 from 10 a.m. to noon. 

  • Saturday, April 1, 8 a.m.
  • Love Cycle Studios, 110 N Ankeny Blvd. Suite 320, Ankeny, IA 50023

This is one HOT partnership! Head to Love Cycle Studios this Saturday for a 45-minute spin class and change up your race training for the Des Moines Women’s Race. You’ll get the chance to try something new and in return get a killer high energy, low impact workout.  Oh and don’t forget, your first class at the studio is free! 


  • Saturday, April 1, 6 p.m.
  • Pots & Shots, 9500 University Ave. Suite 1101, West Des Moines, IA 50265
 
 
 
 
 
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Spring Popup Weekend at Des Moines Mercantile

  • Saturday, April 1 and Sunday, April 2, 11 a.m.-3:00 p.m. 
  • Des Moines Mercantile, 3707 6th Ave., Des Moines, IA 50313
 
 
 
 
 
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Sunday, April 2


The Lion King at Des Moines Civic Center

  • Sunday, April 2, 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. showtimes
  • Des Moines Civic Center, 221 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309

This doesn’t really need a description does it? Just a perfect Sunday activity solo or with friends and family. 


Looking for some date night activities? 

We have our favorite date night activity ideas laid out for you at the guide below.