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Things to do in Des Moines this weekend: Community hike, 'Groundhog Day' showing

Local 5 rounded up five events taking place this weekend to help you welcome February in style.
Credit: AP
Groundhog Club handler A.J. Dereume holds Punxsutawney Phil, the weather prognosticating groundhog, during the 137th celebration of Groundhog Day on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa., Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023. Phil's handlers said that the groundhog has forecast six more weeks of winter. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger)

DES MOINES, Iowa — We've officially made it through the first month of 2024. Now, with just 29 days in February, it's the perfect time to make every single day special — starting with your weekend. 

Local 5 rounded up five events taking place Friday, Feb. 2 through Sunday, Feb. 4 to help you welcome the month in style. 

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

"Groundhog Day" at Flix Brewhouse

  • When: Friday, Feb. 2 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Where: Flix Brewhouse (3800 Merle Hay Rd., Des Moines)
  • Price: $7

You may not be in Punxsutawney, but here's another way to commemorate Feb. 2: Flix Brewhouse is showing the classic American comedy, "Groundhog Day", starring Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell. With only one showing, make sure to grab your tickets in advance. 

George Washington Carver Day celebrations

  • When: Feb. 2 and Feb. 3 (Times vary)
  • Where: Simpson College, Indianola Square
    • Events located in different rooms, locations
  • Price: Free

George Washington Carver Day in Iowa officially falls on Feb. 1, but this celebration continues on Friday and Saturday. Carver attended Simpson College in 1890-1891, and the events this weekend commemorate his legacy. 

From special exhibits to scavenger hunts, this event features fun and educational activities for the whole family. Click here for the full schedule. 

RELATED: Iowa celebrates inaugural George Washington Carver Day

Winter community hike

  • When: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
  • Where: Jester Park Nature Center (12130 NW 128th St., Granger)
  • Price: Free

Enjoy this weekend's warm temperatures by getting some fresh air at Jester Park. A Polk County Conservation naturalists will lead participants on a peaceful hike. During the trek, hikers can learn about what animals do to survive Iowa winters. This event is open to all ages and no registration is required. 

RELATED: Women-centric walking groups nurture relationships with nature

Escape the winter blues by getting some fresh air and maybe even a little sunshine at a winter hike! ❄🥾 This month...

Posted by Polk County Conservation on Tuesday, January 30, 2024

February Flea Market

  • When: Saturday, Feb. 3, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | Sunday, Feb. 4, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
  • Where: Bruce L. Rastetter 4-H Exhibits Building at Iowa State Fairgrounds (3000 E. Grand Ave., Des Moines)
  • Price: Free admission

Shop 'til you drop at this February. Find home décor items, jewelry, purses, antiques, collectibles and more at this event, all in one convenient location.

If you can't make it this month, there are several more flea markets at the Iowa State Fairgrounds this year. Plus, new merchandise and vendors are added monthly. 

Family hours at Up-Down

  • When: Sunday, Feb. 4, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
  • Where: Up-Down Des Moines (500 E. Locust St., Des Moines) 
  • Price: Free to enter | Games cost 25 cents or one token

Kids of all ages can join their parents in the East Village this weekend at Up-Down. While the space is typically open only for people 21 years or older, Up-Down is hosting "family hours" to allow everyone to enjoy their wide selection of arcade games. Up-Down will also sell pizza by-the-slice, kid-friendly drinks and alcoholic drinks to those over 21. 

All people under the age of 21 must leave by 2 p.m. 

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