Spring has sprung in Des Moines. The weather is getting nicer and we are all getting tired of being shut indoors because of the snow and cold.

We’ve looked around and have found some great things to in Des Moines over the next couple of months that will warm you up and get you excited to be out and about.

First up, is the Natural Living Expo, going on Saturday and Sunday this weekend at the Polk County Convention Complex. The expo features over 200 exhibitors offering green, natural, healthy, organic, holistic, renewable,reusable goods and services in everything from pet care, gardening and recreation. To food and drink, energy and community organizations. This free event will also have live entertainment, workshops and fun for the kids. For more information on the event, click the above link!

Next up is the Tony nominated musical “Rock of Ages” which takes the Civic Center stage April 16th through the 25th. “American Idol” finalist, Constantine Maroulis, reprises his role as Drew in “Rock of Ages” first national tour! The musical tells the story of a small town girl who meets a big city rocker in LA’s most famous rock club, where they fall in love. Rock of Ages is an arena-rock love story told through the mind-blowing, face-melting hits of Journey, Styx, Reo Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Poison, Whitesnake and many more. Order your tickets and read more about this hair raising musical on the Des Moines Civic Center website.


If you don’t get a chance to see “Rock of Ages” or if it just leaves you wanting more, Bon Jovi makes an appearance at the Wells Fargo arena on May 12th! Tickets for the concert range for $20 to $130. For ticket information check out the Iowa Events Center on-line.

If you’re looking for something to do outdoors, one of most anticipated Spring events is the opening of the Downtown Farmers Market! Located on Court Avenue, the farmer’s market features over 200 vendors with products ranging from artesian breads, organic vegetables, fresh flowers, breakfast burritos, coffee and so much more! If you plan on going, be prepared to walk, last years opening day drew over 3,000 shoppers!!

Of course these are only just a FEW of the great things going on this Spring in Des Moines, for more outdoor events, including adult rec leagues, check out the Des Moines Parks and Recreation website.

It’s March and in Des Moines that means 3 things: state basketball tournaments, Spring is potentially here and most importantly, St. Patrick’s Day.

This year we’ve compiled some quick and easy information for you, so you can make the most of the lucky day.

No holiday is complete without a parade, and this one is no different. The annual Son’s of St. Patrick’s Day parade kicks off in Downtown Des Moines at Noon. The Parade begins at 15th and Locust and will proceed east to Embassy Suites at 101 East Locust for a reception/party.

If you want to start your celebrating before the parade, the Des Moines Social Club will be having a party from 8am to Noon, their celebration includes the live band: McKenzie Islanders Pipes & Drums, $2 Green Beers, Guiness & traditional Irish drinks.

Of course, pubs and bars across the city will also be having their own parties, both before and after the parade. Take a look at Des Moines Metromix for a list of what will be going on.

If you’re looking for something more family friendly, the State Historical Museum, located in the East Village, is putting on it’s 3rd annual Irish Fest from 1-4pm. You and your little ones can listen to original Irish and Scottish music from Four Shillings Short and the MacKenzie Highlanders Pipes and Drums, catch some traditional Irish dancing starring the Foy School of Traditional Irish Dance. And there will also be Irish crafts and arts for children, body art and much more.

So, whether you’re looking to celebrate the day in full Irish spirit, just want to learn more about the history or St. Patrick’s Day, or you just want an excuse to enjoy the Spring weather. There will most definitely be something going for you to enjoy.

And of course, don’t forget to wear your Green!

Calling all runners!

While the frost may be starting to form on our windshields and the temperature outside is inching closer to freezing everyday, the good news is, running season isn’t quite over.

Des Moines has a few more chances coming up for those of you who are avid runners, enjoy running just to do it, or even for those of you who just like to watch.

Known as Des Moines’ oldest road race. The Des Moines Turkey Trot is held every year on Thanksgiving, and includes a: 5 Mile Run, 2 Mile Run/ Walk, and 1/2 Mile Dog Run/ Walk. Making it a perfect family outing for T-Day. Click on the above link for info on registration.

If you’re looking for a bit more excitement in your run. Check out the Living History Farms Race, the country’s biggest cross country race, on November 20th. This race will have you running all over Living History Farms; dodging cows and horses and splashing through creeks. And finishes off with a hot meal thanks to The Machine Shed and Iowa Beef Industry Council.

And if November proves to still be a little too warm, there’s the Jingle Jog sponsored by AIB on December 18th. This is nice and easy 2 or 4 mile run around Gray’s Lake, with 3 age brackets. Plus, runners have a chance at this race to win entry into next year’s Des Moines Marathon!

So, while we may be busting out the coats and scarves soon. It doesn’t mean you have to also put away the running shoes. Check out one of these races, or Runningwall.com for a list of other great races still going this year.