Spring Fever: 7 Reasons to Look Forward to Spring in DSM

Science has never drummed up quite as effective a tranquilizing agent as a sunny spring day.  ~W. Earl Hall

(And that’s coming from a huge science nerd!)

There’s nothing quite like springtime in Greater Des Moines (DSM). It’s true — we’ve enjoyed a very mild winter, but spring brings a newness that you just can’t help but be happy about. Between beautiful weather, an influx of events, longer daylight hours and the general positive effects of sunshine, it’s hard not to be optimistic. It’s science!

Top 7 Reasons to Look Forward to Spring in Des Moines

1. Iowa Cubs games — It’s the epitome of an all-American summer. Sitting in a baseball stadium, surrounded by friends, with a hot dog in one hand and a beer in the other. Top it off with fireworks on the backdrop of the glimmering Iowa State Capitol? Incredible. Opening game is Thursday, April 5!

2. Spring/Summer Athletics - If you’re more into playing sports than watching, springtime offers no shortage of opportunities. I’m looking forward to playing on Young Professionals Connection's (YPC’s) coed softball and sand volleyball teams this summer. It’s a great way to get to know fellow YPC members and a wonderful excuse to be outside on gorgeous spring/summer evenings.

3. Downtown Farmers Market — Fresh flowers, handmade goods, unique foods (be sure to try the wheat grass shots, Tacopocalypse tacos and breakfast burritos) and LOTS of dogs. Really, it’s a wonderful reason to get out of bed on a Saturday morning. The first Downtown Farmer’s Market of the season is Saturday, May 5.

4. Market Day — Also on May 5, the first Market Day of the season rolls into the Kirkwood building downtown. (Perfect if you want to make it to both this and the Farmer’s Market!) Market Day is “a monthly market of independent art, crafts and vintage finds.” Last year, I got some great artwork and jewelry on my Market Day excursions!

5. Spring #WhiffIt Classic — As if Des Moines doesn’t have enough going on this day, the Spring #WhiffIt Classic also takes place on Saturday, May 5. It’s a day-long whiffle ball tournament that, frankly, can get quite competitive. But it’s in the name of charity, so it’s all in good fun. Bonus points for “punny” team names!
 
6. Nitefall on the River — A summer music series that takes place in Simon Estes Amphitheater — one of my favorite venues, hands down. It starts with some sunshine, jams and refreshing summer beverages, but as the night progresses, the sun sets, and you’re left with a breathtaking view of the downtown skyline. The season hasn’t been announced yet, but the first shows are usually in the beginning of May and run through July.

7. Activities at Des Moines’ Attractions — Our city’s attractions step up their games as summer draws near. The Blank Park Zoo just opened their new indoor exhibit, Ice Age, and Zoo Brew starts on June 6. The Science Center of Iowa [disclosure: my employer] will have its current exhibit, Lost Egypt, through April 29 and plans to announce it’s summer exhibition (something space-themed!) on April 13. And don’t forget about Mixology Night on May 4 - It’s the last one until fall!

The list could go on and on. So you tell me — what did I miss? What are you most looking forward to about spring in Des Moines?
                                    
 Emilee Richardson
Social Media Coordinator