Shop, Hunt, Cheer: 5 Can’t-Miss Events in Downtown DSM This Week

Shop local makers, hunt for colorful eggs, experience Chinese culture through the art of dance, cheer your heart out for novice and pro runners and the Iowa Barnstormers, too. It’s all here this week, with these five can’t-miss events taking place in Downtown Des Moines (DSM).

Iowa Barnstormers vs. Arizona Rattlers

Saturday, April 20 | Wells Fargo Arena
Des Moines’ Indoor Football League (IFL) team is ready for its first home game of the season! With tickets starting at $18, why not join in the fun? The game starts at 7:05 p.m. This week’s special: For the home opener, fans can purchase two gridiron tickets to the game plus an autographed football for $100.
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Earth Day Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt

Saturday, April 20 | Water Works Park
Starting at 8 a.m., join in the hunt for hundreds of colorful eggs hidden throughout the park. All ages are welcome, and participation is free! While you’re there, explore the beautiful woodlands and waterways and lend a hand to spruce up the park with a springtime cleanup. Food and drink vendors will be on-site including Mars Cafe, Sticky Fingers and the Des Moines Biergarten. Plus, face painting, miniature ponies and more! You won’t want to miss this.
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You might also be interested in free admission to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Center as part of Earth Day! Saturday, April 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Shen Yun

Sunday, April 21 | Des Moines Civic Center
This theatrical experience delves into a lost culture of classical Chinese dance. View the rich heritage come to life onstage at 2 p.m., with a unique blend of breathtaking costumes, backdrops and orchestra music like no other!
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Des Moines Makers Market & Bar Hop

Sunday, April 21 | Exile, Lua, Big Grove & TeeHee’s Comedy Club
Treat yo’self to a drink and shop local vintage vendors, makers and artists! Vendors, food and drink will be spread between four Downtown DSM locales with products ranging from original art, home decor, apparel, jewelry, soap, candles and tons more to choose from!
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Grand Blue Mile

Tuesday, April 23 | Westen Gateway Park
Not signed up for the one-mile race? No problem! Come experience the energy and excitement cheering on the runners — including recreational, competitive and champion divisions. This is a great kickoff to Drake Relays week, which culminates with the pinnacle blue oval event taking place Wednesday, April 24 through Sunday, April 27 at Drake Stadium.
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Looking for more to explore? Here’s a list of five totally free things to do in Downtown Des Moines during April.

Mark your calendar! The Downtown Farmers’ Market season is coming soon, with opening day on Saturday, May 4 from 7 a.m. to Noon in the Historic Court District.

For these upcoming events and more, find tips on Downtown Des Moines (DSM) parking and navigation. For additional upcoming events, visit the Downtown DSM events calendar. Plus, follow @downtownDSMUSA on Instagram for more epic, things-you-just-can’t-miss happening around Downtown.