DES MOINES, Iowa — February's final week may have been characterized by erratic temperature shifts and increased fire danger across Iowa, but that doesn't mean your weekend needs to be stressful, too.
There's plenty of fun for everyone across the metro, whether you enjoy art, music, food or the outdoors. So, get ready for a new month and new experiences with these events around Des Moines this weekend.
Local 5 rounded up five events taking place Friday, March 1 through Sunday, March 3 to kick off the month.
Have an event you want featured in Local 5's Weekend Guide? Text us at 515-457-1026 or email us at news@weareiowa.com.
- Where: Mainframe Studios (900 Keosauqua Way, Des Moines)
- When: Friday, March 1, 5-8 p.m.
- Price: Free
It's time for First Friday! This month's theme is "The Future is Art", highlighting the work of youth artists. Artwork by Des Moines Public Schools students will be on display in galleries throughout Mainframe. The student artists are from 70 DMPS schools and special programs, with artwork curated by district art teachers.
- Where: Iowa Events Center (730 3rd St., Des Moines)
- When: Friday, March 1, 2-8 p.m., Saturday, March 2, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday, March 3, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Price: $15 for adults ages 15 and up, $5 for kids 10-15
Connect with other hunting aficionados at the Iowa Deer Classic. At this event, attendees can try out new equipment, shop for gear and talk to hunting and fishing experts throughout the U.S., Canada and Africa. If you're feeling competitive, bring your antlers for the Shed Antler Contest, or bring your bow for the 300 and 3D shoots.
- Where: Des Moines Civic Center (221 Walnut St., Des Moines)
- When: Friday, March 1 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, March 2 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 3 at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
- Price: Tickets start at $50
Described as "a reborn dream of a production" and "one of the greatest musicals ever created", "Les Misérables" is making a stop in Des Moines this week. Set in 19th century France, this musical features classic songs including "I Dreamed a Dream", "On My Own" and "One Day More".
- Where: Forest Avenue Library (1326 Forest Ave., Des Moines)
- When: Saturday, March 2, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Price: Meals start at $10
Enjoy some soul food and connect with other library patrons at this annual festival. Meals are $10, but a la carte and dessert items will also be available for purchase.
- Where: Terra Lake Park (6300 Pioneer Parkway, Johnston)
- When: Sunday, March 3, 2-4 p.m.
- Price: Free
Take a hike - literally. Organized by Wander Women, this hike is free and open to women, non-binary and genderfluid people. The trail at Terra Lake Park is about 2 miles long and paved, perfect for beginners. Bring a small backpack with water and a snack, and get ready to meet fellow nature nerds.
If you can't make it this month, Wander Women typically hosts a hike every month, each at a different location around the metro.