DES MOINES, Iowa — If your New Year's resolution was to explore more of central Iowa, you're in luck.
Local 5 rounded up five events taking place Friday, Jan. 5 through Sunday, Jan. 7 to help you start 2024 on the right foot.
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. 5 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 6 at 6 p.m. | Wells Fargo Arena (233 Center St., Des Moines) | Tickets start at $22
Start the first weekend of 2024 off with a hockey game! Friday will be "Local Heroes Night" at Wells Fargo Arena, presented by Iowa Distilling.
The first 1,500 fans will receive free hats presented by 93.3 KIOA. On Saturday, the first 1,500 fans will receive an Adam Beckman bobblehead and can enjoy a performance by Brother Trucker as part of the Coca-Cola Local Concert Series.
Saturday, Jan. 6 and Sunday, Jan. 7 | Elwell Family Food Center Building, Iowa State Fairgrounds (3000 E. Grand Ave., Des Moines) | $5 for adults, $3 for people ages 12-17, 12 and under get in free
Billed as "the largest gathering of diecast toy enthusiasts in central Iowa", this event is a must-see for all diecast toy fans. Dealers from around the Midwest will be selling diecast toys and related memorabilia, including special limited-edition pieces.
The family-friendly event will be sure to please hobbyists and collectors of all ages. While you're there, you can even enjoy an Iowa State Fair lemonade or corn dog.
Saturday, Jan. 6 at 8 p.m. | Drake Municipal Observatory (4898 Observatory Rd., Des Moines) | Free
Calling all amateur astronomers: this event is for you. The Des Moines Municipal Observatory and the Des Moines Astronomical Society are ringing in the new year by setting their sights on the stars. The event will feature a lecture by eclipse chaser Derryl Barr, who will discuss the upcoming total solar eclipse that will be visible in April.
After the lecture, attendees can discuss astronomy, tour the observatory and use telescopes to take a peek at the night sky.
Sunday, Jan. 7 at 3 p.m. | Wells Fargo Arena (233 Center St., Des Moines) | Tickets start at $31
The Harlem Globetrotters 2024 World Tour is coming to central Iowa. The Globetrotters will go head-to-head with their rivals, the Washington Generals. Full of hijinks and "incredible ball-handling wizardry", this game is sure to be fun for the whole family.
Sunday, Jan. 7 at 11 a.m. | Scottish Rite Consistory (519 Park Street, Des Moines) | Free
Prepare for your upcoming nuptials with this free event featuring more than 100 wedding professionals. Try catering samples, cakes, drinks and more, and garner inspiration from the various styled tables and designer areas.
Whether your wedding vibe is sleek and timeless or colorful and eclectic, the Des Moines Wedding Show promises to feature plenty of local vendors to cater to your needs.