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!
State Wrestling
‘Tis the season for state competitions in Greater Des Moines. Starting with the Iowa High School State Wrestling tournament at Wells Fargo Arena. From Wednesday, February 19 through Saturday, February 22, cheer on the state’s top wrestlers as they compete for the top of the podium. The environment alone is worth checking out. Find tickets here.
Work in Progress and Tom Archer’s Poor Man’s Country Club
A year after their reopening, Val Air Ballroom is continuing to make it the place to be with the addition of Work in Progress, a blue-collar dive bar in the basement of the venue. Featuring a late-night food menu with nods to all the Iowa things, enjoy bites like fried pickles, Chili Frito pie, and chicken lips (the pride of Burlington, Iowa). Enjoy mystery $3 beers, as well as the full-service bar. Right next door is Tom Archer’s Poor Man’s Country Club, a new supper club named in honor of the former owner of Val Air Ballroom. Recently opening on January 31, the menu from Ryan Skinner (formerly of Harbinger) includes crispy popovers, crab cakes, homemade gnocchi, and even pork schnitzel. They are open Tuesday through Saturday (and on show nights), and reservations are open now. Make one here.
Iowa Ag Expo
The third largest indoor ag show in the country is back at the Iowa Events Center, February 4 – 6. Explore the latest in the agriculture and farming industry like equipment and exhibitors spanning over 7 acres. It’s a can’t-miss event for those in the ag industry or those who just enjoy learning about the business. Don’t wait in line for tickets, buy them in advance here and save $5.
Valentine’s Day
Roses are red, violets are blue, and we’ve got the perfect date night in Des Moines for you! We’ve rounded up a few events, from dinner to dancing, to help with your planning. Wilson’s Orchard will be hosting a Galentine’s Day on Thursday, February 13. This includes a waffle bar, crafts, polaroid photo ops, and cocktails. Celebrate Valentine’s Day at the Scottish Rite Consistory with a Candlelight: Valentine’s Day Special concert full of your favorite love songs. Or for the outdoorsy types, scoot over to Brenton Skating Plaza to take in the beautiful downtown views while working on your figure eight. Get BOGO admission on Valentine’s Day (as well as the day after!) See all the Valentine’s Day celebrations happening in Greater Des Moines here.
Life of Pi
“Life of Pi” is coming to the Des Moines Civic Center in February. See the Tony Award® winning show about 16-year-old Pi, who gets stranded on a lifeboat with four surviving animals – a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a 450-pound Royal Bengal tiger. Filled with incredible visuals, puppetry, and more, this is a must-see Broadway adaptation. Tickets are still available, and the show is in town, February 25 – March 2.
Des Moines Home and Garden Show
Looking for ways to beat the winter blues? The Des Moines Home and Garden Show is here to help! Head to the Iowa Events Center, February 13 – 16 for four days of home show exhibitors, presentations, and speakers. Find inspiration for all sorts of outdoor updates like siding and gutters, garden and landscape, and even pools. Or if indoor is more your vibe, you can find home décor, furniture, flooring, and more, all perfect for your renovation dreams. Adult tickets are $14, but if you purchase them online you can save $2.
Seven Oaks
Looking for a way to embrace the cold? Seven Oaks in Boone is your answer. Here you can snowboard, ski, and tube all in one place. With 11 different runs available in difficulties from beginner to expert, there’s something for every speed at Seven Oaks. They also have a large lodge where you can warm up with some hot chocolate and State Fair Mini Donuts. Check their website for hours and rates.
Shiver on the River
A favorite local event, Shiver on the River returns to Captain Roy’s again this year on February 15. Penning themselves as “the coldest party in the world,” spend the day competing in events such as tug of war, beer cooler curling, skee ball, and more. Those February temperatures have got nothing on you. Starting at 5 p.m., enjoy live music from local rock group TOAST3R, perfect for a dance party after competing in events. If you want to participate in the competitions, be sure to register at Shiver Eve on February 14 for guaranteed entry. A few spots will be held on Saturday morning, but there isn’t a guarantee. Tickets are $20 and you can get them here.
