Everyone’s favorite green holiday is back and better than ever in Greater Des Moines. This year, St. Patrick’s Day is on Tuesday, March 17, but that doesn’t mean you have to celebrate on one day only. The metro is hosting a variety of St. Patrick’s Day festivities both before and after too! Celebrate the Irish way with a cheeky pint of Guiness and check out all the amazing events going on. Sláinte!
Activities
Des Moines St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The annual, classic (yet always vibrant) St. Patrick’s Day parade will be held in Des Moines on Tuesday, March 17 starting at noon. This route runs conveniently through downtown East Village, across the bridge, and down by the Des Moines Downtown Mariott, all on Grand Ave. Whether you have the day off, or can catch your lunch break outdoors, the St. Patrick’s Day parade is always a fun turnout to ring in the holiday. Learn more here.
Des Moines St. Paddy’s Half Marathon, 5k, and Marathon
Lace up those shoes, throw on your best green t-shirt, and wear a four-leaf clover for good luck, because you won’t want to miss the official Des Moines St. Paddy’s Half Marathon, 5k, and full Marathon. On Saturday, March 14, join Des Moines’ community of runners in either of these three events, including a kid’s divisional 5k! With the first race starting at 6 a.m., get your workout in a sea of green as you trail through the vibrant Des Moines downtown. Registration varies depending on the event; sign-up here!
Irish Jam Session at Ironside Axe Throwing
A monthly occurrence at Ironside Axe Throwing, this event holds an extra little “oomph” this month as a kickoff to the week before St. Patrick’s Day! On March 12 from 7-10 p.m., join local musicians across the metro as they jam out to some classic Irish music. If you’re not skilled at an instrument, no worries! Conveniently, it’s puzzle night, so all are welcome to stay in for a night of puzzling and listen to tunes that transport them to a Celtic era. Learn more here.
St. Patrick’s Day Family Glow and Bowl Party
Let the good times “roll” with a shamrockin’ day of bowling at Warrior Lanes in Waukee. On March 15 from noon-1:30 p.m., your reserved lane includes unlimited glow bowling for up to five guests, shoe rental, pizza, a pitcher of pop, and mom-approved music (don’t worry fam, we got you!). Hurry, because this event always sells out quickly! Reserve your lane here.
St. Paddy’s Day Party with Crowdfoot Rakes at xBk Live
"Irish Music for the Iowish People!" This is the motto of Des Moines-based band, Crowdfoot Rakes, as they take the xBk Live stage on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17. Their Iowish (ok, Irish) music is a blend of 1960s and 70s Celtic folk, with today’s modern folk/punk scene. Each member is extremely instrumentally talented, showcasing some Irish instruments that we promise you’ve never heard before. Tickets start at $15 and can be purchased here.
Downtown Des Moines St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawls: March 14 & 17
Pub Crawls is bringing two St. Patrick’s Day-themed bar experiences for everyone to enjoy. If bar hopping on a weekend is more your thing, then opt for the St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Bar Crawl on March 14 from 4-10 p.m. Or, if you’re a traditionalist, then the St. Patrick’s Day Crawl on March 17 might be more your vibe. Tickets can be bought online for either event here.
Luck of the Zoo: A Zoo Brew Pop-Up
It’s the Zoo Brew....but with an Irish twist! Head over to the Blank Park Zoo on March 14 from 4:30-7:30 p.m. for a night of sampling local Irish craft beer, taking in the new sights and sounds of spring, and enjoying live music from The Des Moines Irish Session. Sip on green-dyed drinks as you learn about and encounter the exotic zoo wildlife. Tickets are $20 for general admission, $15 for members, and $6 for season passholders. Register here!
Botany of Beer
You know it, you love it, but what exactly goes into it? Learn about the plants used to create that amber-filled pint you can’t get enough of (especially during St. Patrick’s Day). The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden will have you sample beers from local breweries all around the metro, using different botanicals! This event is held on March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, from 5:30-7 p.m. with tickets at $34 for members and $40 for nonmembers. Sign-up for this event here (and pro tip, stay for Dome After Dark for a well-rounded evening).
St.Patrick’s Day Paint & Sip at Magee’s Irish Pub
Channel your inner artist for a St. Patrick's Day-themed paint and sip with “Painting with a Twist”! Only this time, it’s hosted at Magee’s Irish Pub in Ankeny. On March 18 (the day after St. Patrick’s) from 6:30-8:30 p.m., you’ll get full instruction, supplies, and your masterpiece to take home. Magee’s full menu will be available for additional purchase before, during, and after the event. Tickets are $39 per person and can be reserved here.
Paws & Pints: Saint Patty’s Day Paw-ty
Don’t leave your playful pooch out on St. Patrick’s Day, celebrate with them at Paws & Pints! On March 17 starting at 4 p.m., the festivities will begin with a photo booth, giveaways, activities, music, green beer (for the humans, of course), and more. If your pup wears green, they’ll get a free day pass to the dog park! No registration required but be ready for slobbery kisses and a barking-good time.
Pre-Paddy Party at The Shop DSM
Join the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick Central Iowa (Des Moines’ parade hosts) for a pre-St. Patrick's Day party downtown at The Shop DSM. On March 14 from 2-6 p.m., you can stop by for an afternoon full of fun food trucks, a cash(less) bar, and live music. During the event, there’ll be a LIVE auction with the opportunity to win the best title of all... “2026 St. Patrick's Day Parade Grand Marshall”! There is no cover, but donations are accepted at the door.
Leprechaun Loop & Wag at Gray’s Lake
Soak up spring with a walk around the lake with your favorite four-legged friend, while supporting your local community! On March 15 from 10 a.m.-noon, dog owners from across the metro are invited to participate in this walk and St. Paddy’s festivities. Sign-up is $5 per dog and directly benefits the City of Des Moines Dog Parks. Keep your dog happy, and help your community, all at once! Register here.
St. Patrick’s Day Comedy Show with Ryan O’Flanagan at Big Grove
LA-based comedian, content creator, and actor Ryan O’Flanagan is coming to Des Moines’ Big Grove on March 17. You may have seen him on popular shows such as Abbott Elementary, New Girl, Dave, and Comedy Central’s “Overly Excited Tourist” series. Enjoy an evening full of belly laughs as he provides a set that is crucial in starting your full night of festivities. Tickets are by table, with a 2-top at $30 and 4-tops at $60. Register for this event here before it’s sold out!
Pre-St. Patrick’s Day Karaoke Party at Reclaimed Rails
Warm up those vocal cords and drink a green beer for some liquid luck! Reclaimed Rails Brewing is hosting a pre-St. Patrick’s Day party on March 14 from 7-10 p.m.. The main attraction? Belting out your favorite Irish tunes, or stick with some popular classics, for a night of karaoke fun.
Smash Park’s St. Patrick’s Day Party
Embrace the Irish spirit with a full day of partying at Smash Park on March 14. Yes, all day. From 11 a.m.-midnight, Smash Park is offering special drink deals (like $4 Jameson and $3 domestic pints) and festivities for everyone. Good at beer pong? Get a team together and reserve a spot for the Giant Pong Tournament. Or stick around after 9 p.m. and book a court for glow pickleball. And if you haven’t been in a while, be sure to check out their new BatBox Experience!
Leprechaun Brunch Bingo at Smash Park
Brunch, bingo, and $3 breakfast cocktails. Get this and more with Smash Park’s Leprechaun Brunch Bingo on Sunday, March 15. From 10 a.m.-noon, wear your best green attire and settle in for two hours of nonstop bingo, no luck needed! And if you’re craving more, stick around for half-off arcade games for the rest of the day.
Music Bingo at Wellman’s Pub & Rooftop
Get your green on for this all-ages music bingo event starting at 7 p.m. at Wellman’s Pub in West Des Moines. The game is free to play and gives you the chance to win free drinks and prizes! So come early, wear your green, order dinner, and settle in for an evening of music bingo.
St. Patrick’s Day at The Rook Room
On March 17, head over to The Rook Room and play a large selection of tabletop, board, or card games from 12-4 p.m. Green beer and free popcorn will be available for all who attend (and better yet, it’s right off the downtown parade route)! Then, that night, reserve your ticket for their Lucky Charm Bar. From 6-9 p.m. enjoy a DIY charm bar for a keychain or bracelet, Lucky Charms Rice Krispies, and a drink ticket for a green beer or a “Green River Float”.
St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl in Uptown Ankeny
Firetrucker Brewery, Mullets, The Waiting Room, The Yankee Clipper, and Uptown Garage are teaming up for an all-day pub crawl in Uptown Ankeny on Saturday March 14. Check-in begins at 11:30 a.m. at Firetrucker Brewery, where you’ll pick up a punch card for drink specials at every participating stop. The walkable crawl through Uptown Ankeny is a great way to support local businesses while celebrating Irish heritage. Tickets start at $23 and are available here.
Food & Drink
St. Patrick’s Day with Exile Brewing
Opening at 9 a.m., Exile Brewing is offering an entire day of St. Patrick’s festivities on March 17! This family-friendly event includes a full and brunch menu, live music until 11:30 a.m., “Heads Up” Irish stout, green Ruthie on tap, and specialty cocktails all day. Grab a pint, grab an order of fish and chips, and sit back as the kids enjoy St. Patrick-themed activities like coloring, temporary tattoos, DIY necklaces and more. It’s an Irish treat for everyone! Make your reservation here.
St. Patrick’s Day at the Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is taking a nod to St. Patrick’s Day with plenty of Irish food, drink, and fun all day long. On March 17, grab breakfast from 8-11 a.m., with lunch and dinner to follow. What’s on the menu? A hearty plate of corned beef and cabbage, Guiness, Jameson and Powers, and absolute shenanigans. Come by around noon to watch the Iowa Scottish Pipes and Drums put on a bagpipe performance! And if the weather is good, snag a seat on the patio.
Irish Heritage Dinner at Rollins Mansion
Much like every culture, Irish heritage has been passed down through generations of storytelling and community. The Rollins Mansion is hosting a special dinner on March 6 at 6 p.m., with a prix fixe menu that celebrates the cuisine of the country. This dinner will take place in the cozy lower-level lodge, so that you’re fully immersed in the dim lighting of an Irish pub. Tickets are $60 and can be reserved here.
St. Patrick’s Day Pre-Party at Mickey’s Irish Pub
It’s an all-day affair! On March 14, join Mickey’s Irish Pub for a day for of celebration. From 8-11:00 a.m., enjoy a breakfast buffet with a live bagpipe and drum band at 10:30 a.m. Then, stick around for a DJ Party from 1-6 p.m. as you sip on green mini beers or a whole pint of green beer. Get your food fix with corned beef and cabbage, then round the night out with Gimmik Live from 8 p.m.-midnight.
Confluence Kegs N’ Eggs
On Saturday, March 14, Confluence Brewing is bringing back their Kegs N’ Eggs event from 9-11 a.m. Enjoy a full brunch buffet and two Irish beers! Dressed in your green best, there’s no better way to start the day. Tickets in advance are needed, and more information will be announced soon.
St. Patrick’s Day at Sully’s Irish Pub
Stick with tradition and celebrate the day the proper way, at a local pub. On March 17, Sully’s Irish Pub in West Des Moines is open from 11-2 a.m. for all kinds of shenanigans. Hang out for live music from Stu Ryan O’Brien Irish Band from 4:30-7 p.m. or catch the perfect pub vibe all day long with a free refillable cup with any purchase. Best part? Corned beef and cabbage will be served all day until it runs out!
St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations at Magee’s Irish Pub
Magee’s Irish Pub in Ankeny is the place to be for St. Patrick’s Day weekend, running March 14, 15, and 17 with Irish music, brunch, dancing, and of course plenty of Guinness flowing. Saturday features live music from the Stu Ryan O’Brien Duo and Crowfoot Rakes, while Sunday brings traditional fiddle tunes with Dave Swenson. On St. Patrick’s Day itself, expect bagpipes, Irish dancers, live bands, and a full day of celebration from morning to night.
