DES MOINES, Iowa — Editor's Note: The above video was originally published in January 2023, after the 2023 Chow's Winter Classic.
If the January blues are hitting you already, it might be time to plan an activity to look forward to in the coming days.
Local 5 rounded up five events taking place Friday, Jan. 12 through Sunday, Jan. 14 to help you make the most of a wintry weekend.
No matter where you go, make sure you exercise extra caution on the roads: A winter storm is expected to descend on central Iowa Thursday evening through Friday, with effects lingering through Saturday. Additionally, temperatures on Saturday night and Sunday will stay below zero.
Stay Weather Aware!
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.
Friday, Jan. 12 and Saturday, Jan. 13 at 7:30 p.m. | Wells Fargo Arena (233 Center St., Des Moines) | Tickets start at $20
Giddy up and get on down to Wells Fargo Arena for the "World's Toughest Rodeo". This family-friendly and fan-oriented event will feature Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Bull Riding and Barrel Racing, all leading up to the "Main Event."
In addition, the event features a free pre-show from 6-7 p.m. each night, which includes a meet-and-greet with contestants, free pony rides and more.
Friday, Jan. 12, Saturday, Jan. 13 and Sunday, Jan. 14 | Hy-Vee Hall (730 3rd St., Des Moines) | Daily passes cost $25 for adults and $15 for children
The Chow's Winter Classic Invitational is back for its 21st year. Billed as the largest gymnastics meet in the state of Iowa, attendees can witness high-caliber gymnastics in the heart of the city. Click here for the women's meet schedule and here for the men's meet schedule.
UPDATE: Because of impending weather, Des Moines Performing Arts has announced that "STOMP" at the Civic Center has been postponed to June 2024.
Friday, Jan. 12 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 13 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 14 at 1 p.m. | Des Moines Civic Center (221 Walnut St., Des Moines) | Tickets start at $35
Described as "explosive, inventive, provocative, witty, and utterly unique", this all-ages show promises to impress. At each performance, members of a percussion troupe use everything but conventional instruments to fill the stage with music.
Whether the performers are using matchboxes, wooden poles or hubcaps, the rhythms of the show are sure to get you to at least tap your feet... or dare we say, STOMP?
Saturday, Jan. 13 at 1 p.m. | Living History Farms (11121 Hickman Rd., Urbandale) | $9 for non-members
It's the last weekend before the 2024 Iowa Caucus. If you plan on participating but don't know how, don't worry: this event at is both educational and delicious. To get a feel for the caucus process, attendees will sample cookies before lobbying (caucusing!) for their treat of choice.
Along the way, participants will hear about the history of the Iowa caucuses and how the presidential nominating contest continues to evolve.
RELATED: Guide to the 2024 Iowa Caucus
Saturday, Jan. 13 at 6:30 p.m. | MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex (6500 Grand Ave., West Des Moines) | $15
Grab your cardigan and your friendship bracelets and get ready to Shake Skate It Off to your favorite Taylor Swift songs. Swifties of all ages are invited to dress up in their best Eras Tour attire for a night of Swift's music.
If you get tired on the ice, the venue will also provide friendship bracelet supplies during skate time. Pre-registration is required.