Girls and Boys State Basketball
Wrap up state tournament season at Wells Fargo Arena with back-to-back weeks of basketball action. Start out with the Iowa High School Girls State Basketball Tournament from March 3 – 8. Continuing with the boys tournament, March 10 – 14. Cheer on teams from each of the five classifications throughout the entire week as they battle to be the last one standing and holding the beloved state title trophy. Looking for something to do while you’re in town? Check out the best places to explore, shop, play, and eat in our blog here.
Lachele’s
Voted one of Des Best burgers in Greater Des Moines, Lachele’s is expanding their metro footprint with a brand-new location in Highland Park. This will be a much larger space than the original, allowing for more dine-in opportunities. (Don’t worry, the walk-up window will still be available at this location). Lachele’s will continue slinging their famous smash burgers, but this new spot will also offer an expanded menu full of classic diner comfort food such as chicken and dumplings, slow-roasted prime rib, sandwiches, and more. Plus, right next door is The Fitz, a new upscale bar that will be open late and have a few food offerings of their own. Find Lachele’s at 3619 6th Avenue, Des Moines.
St. Patrick’s Day
Throw on your kitschiest green t-shirt (Kiss Me, I’m Iowa-ish) and try your luck at any number of St. Paddy’s Day celebrations around the metro. With the traditional St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Grand Avenue at Noon on March 17, there's mischief to be made all weekend, from bar crawls and corned beef to half marathons and even Selection Sunday. So, raise a glass of green beer and check out our full list here!
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 March 28 against the Omaha Storm Chasers. It’s a Friday night, so you know what that means – fireworks! 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 $13. Hello family-fun nights!
Café Madeleine
A brand-new dining experience has opened in the base of the Fleming Building thanks to Chef David Baruthio. Café Madeleine is unlike any experience you’ve had in Greater Des Moines. This intimate tasting menu experience only allows room for 16 diners, all being personally served by the chefs themselves. The seasonal menu will feature nine courses, and you must make a reservation in advance. How do you do that exactly? Contact Chef Baruthio on Instagram here. They are only open Tuesday – Thursday, so plan accordingly for every foodie’s dream.
Trendy Gardener
If you’re anything like us, we’re already planning ways to improve our green thumb for the spring season. Luckily for us, The Trendy Gardener has just opened their doors on Keo Way. They have plenty of options for gifts such as plants, pots, and other accessories perfect for your growth journey. The Trendy Gardener also specializes in creating live moss walls, perfect for your next event. Visit them at 1201 Keosauqua Way, Suite 205, or learn more here.
DSM Book Festival
Good news all you book worms, the DSM Book Festival is back on March 22! Winner of the Best New Festival (International Festivals and Event Associations 2019) this year's festival features authors like C. J. Box (Blue Heaven) and Claire Lombardo (The Most Fun We Ever Had). Admission is free, and this year Beaverdale Books is partnering with the Des Moines Public Library to have children’s activities. Spend the day finding the next book (or books?) to add to your TBR.
Pause Studio
Looking for a new wellness spot? Pause Studio in West Des Moines recently opened and they have services to help with mind and body rejuvenation. Try out flotation therapy which helps release endorphins. Or give cryotherapy (cold therapy) a try. They also have infrared saunas, LED Light Therapy, IV Vitamin Drips, and more. Book services here.
