Each month, we highlight the most buzzworthy places and events in Greater Des Moines in a feature we call Des Buzz. It's your “in the know” list of places to go!
Iowa Cubs
You’ll find us singing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” for the rest of the spring and summer because the Iowa Cubs are back at Principal Park for another season. The I-Cubs kick off their home games with their home opener on April 2 against the Toledo Mud Hens. Make sure to check out their game day promotions as they have some fun promotions and game night specials throughout the season. The best part – tickets start at $10. Hello family-fun nights!
The Little Book
Looking to enhance little minds? Head to Highland Park and visit the newest bookstore catered specifically to children and children’s books, The Little Book. With everything from picture books to chapter books for your teens, The Little Book caters to all types of readers. They even have a section for the parents to browse while shopping for your little one. They also have book readings and storytellings, so be sure to stay up to date with their happenings here.
Iowa Barnstormers
Des Moines’ favorite arena football team, the Iowa Barnstormers are bringing the action back to Wells Fargo on April 20 for their season home opener against the Arizona Rattlers. With just eight regular season home games, you won’t want to miss seeing a game. The Barnstormers provide a fun, high-paced football game that keeps you entertained all game long! Tickets start at $18. We hear the best seats are right next to the action.
Wild Lights Festival
The annual Wild Lights Festival is lighting up the Blank Park Zoo every Wednesday through Sunday, April 5 – May 27. This after zoo hours event has more than 50 larger-than-life, illuminated Asian lanterns. These beautiful works of art are spread throughout the zoo and feature animal displays like a dragon and panda, as well as interactive displays, and mythical creatures. And keep your eyes out for some great selfie opportunities. Wild Lights Festival is open 7:30 – 9 p.m. Pro tip: Visit after sunset to get the best viewing experience.
The Stuffed Olive
Welcome home, The Stuffed Olive! Known for their long list of martinis and tapas, they are returning to downtown Des Moines. Relocating at 216 Court Avenue, the new space will be triple the size of the original. With more than 100 variations of martinis, you’re sure to find at least one you’ll enjoy. Try out a Banana Creme Pie or Almond Joy for something sweet. You can also go classic with a Cosmopolitan or Espresso. Pair with Brussel Sprouts or Smoked Elote Dip and The Stuffed Olive will have you coming back for more.
Concerts
Greater Des Moines isn’t lacking in the concert department, and April is a prime example of that. Wells Fargo Arena alone has headlining acts Fall Out Boy, Lil Wayne, AJR, Kane Brown, and Zach Bryan all making stops in the next few weeks. Vibrant Music Hall is jam packed with Breaking Benjamin, Gladys Knight, Dethklok, and more. There are shows at Wooly’s, Val Air Ballroom, the Des Moines Civic Center, and more. It’s sure to be a lively month of live music, with plenty of opportunities to see your favorite acts live.
Drake Relays
On your mark, get set, go…to the Drake Relays! The Drake Relays are back and ready to see some potential Olympic athletes before heading to the Paris Olympics. Things get kicked off with the annual Drake Road Races on April 21, followed by the Beautiful Bulldog competition. The USATF 1-Mile Championships will once again look at setting a world record on April 23. April 25 will feature “Thursday Night Throwdown” with men’s and women’s hammer and javelin throw competitions. And for the first time since 2019, pole vault will return, this year at Center Court Area at Jordan Creek Town Center. See this year’s schedule of events here.
Pepp’s Pizzeria
Are you a fan of Charlotte’s Kitchen? The team behind the chicken sandwich shop in Johnston has officially opened their newest restaurant, Pepp’s Pizzeria. Located in Grimes, Pepp’s specializes in “upside down” pizza. New York style crust, topped with cheese, then sauce, and topped off with toppings galore. They are currently serving up slices at lunchtime, and 100 whole pies a night (online order) for takeout only. They are working to bring the highest quality possible, so limiting the number of pizzas per day. Learn more and order for your next pizza night here.
