DES MOINES, Iowa — April is here, but we promise we're not fooling around: From a Final Four watch party to a belated Easter celebration, there's something for everyone to do in the metro this weekend.
Local 5 rounded up five events happening in and around Des Moines this weekend to help you kick off April.
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, April 5, 5-8 p.m.
- Price: Free
It's a new month, which means Mainframe Studios is hosting another First Friday event. This month's theme is "Body of Work". Attendees can see how different artists use and interpret the body to create art. In addition, tattoo artists will share their designs and Hurley & Dancers will perform during the event.
- Where: Val Air Ballroom (301 Ashworth Road, West Des Moines)
- When: Friday, April 5, 5:30 p.m.
- Price: Free
Tired of cheering on the Hawkeyes from your couch at home? Val Air Ballroom is hosting a watch party for both of the women's Final Four games. Watch the NC State vs. South Carolina game at 6 p.m., and then stick around to cheer on the Hawkeyes as they battle UConn. Food and drink will be available for purchase. Tables are first come, first serve.
- Where: Blank Park Zoo (7401 SW 9th Street, Des Moines)
- When: Friday, April 5; Saturday, April 6 and Sunday, April 7, 7:30-10 p.m.
- Price: $23 for non-members, $19 for members
It's opening week for Blank Park Zoo's annual Wild Lights Festival. While the event will take place every week through Memorial Day, this weekend is the perfect chance to check the event off your bucket list early. The festival will feature nearly 50 illuminated Asian lanterns, as well as animal displays, interactive exhibits and multiple photo opportunities.
- Where: Howell's Greenhouse & Pumpkin Patch (3145 Howell Court, Cumming)
- When: Saturday, April 6 and Sunday, April 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Price: $12 for kids and $10 for adults if purchased online
- Buy tickets at the gate for $15
If you missed out on egg hunts last weekend, now is your chance to get in on the fun. Howell's is hosting a "chaos-free" egg hunt. Howell's makes it easy for participants, providing an egg carton to collect eggs in. Those eggs can then be redeemed for prizes, with every child coming home with a prize.
- Where: Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines (205 S. 64th St., Des Moines)
- When: Sunday, April 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Price: $12 for adults and $5 for kids ages 5-10
- Free admission for kids 4 and under
You've never seen a reptile show on this scale before! Bring the whole family to see all sorts of reptiles and amphibians. Talk to breeders and explore a variety of supplies including cages, tanks, beddings, toys and decorative items.