5 Downtown DSM Events You Won’t Want to Miss: March 20-26

Spring is starting to show its face in Downtown Des Moines (DSM), and the week of March 20-26 is packed with reasons to get out and enjoy the city. From fast-paced hockey and basketball games to live music, immersive game nights and glowing evenings inside a tropical conservatory, this week is full of fun things to check out around Downtown DSM. You can cheer on hometown teams at Casey’s Center, test your detective skills in a dramatic social deduction game or unwind under the warm lights of the Botanical Garden dome. Keep reading for five can’t-miss events happening this week.

Dome After Dark

Friday Evenings, Now - Friday, March 27, 2026 | Des Moines Botanical Garden
Need an escape from unpredictable March weather? Dome After Dark at the Des Moines Botanical Garden might be exactly what you’re looking for. Every Friday evening, the tropical conservatory transforms into a glowing after-hours experience with beautifully illuminated plants and a peaceful nighttime atmosphere. It’s perfect for a cozy date night, a relaxed evening with friends or even a quiet solo stroll. Wander through lush greenery, soak in the warm air and enjoy the garden in a whole new way. Tickets are available online or at the door, with discounts for members.
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Iowa Wild Home Games

Friday, March 20, Saturday, March 21 & Wednesday, March 25, 2026 | Casey's Center
Hockey fans are in luck this week because the Iowa Wild have three home games lined up at Casey’s Center. Expect fast-paced action, big hits and a lively arena atmosphere as the team faces off against tough competition. Each game also comes with its own theme and giveaways, making every night feel a little different. This week’s games include:

• Friday, March 20 | 7 p.m. vs Ontario Reign
Legacy Reds Night, ALS Awareness Night and a Nico Sturm bobblehead giveaway.
• Saturday, March 21 | 5 p.m. vs Ontario Reign
Spring Break Saturday featuring a sunglasses giveaway and Pride Night.
• Wednesday, March 25 | 7 p.m. vs Chicago Wolves
Winning Wednesday — if the Wild win, fans receive a free ticket to the next Wednesday game.

Grab your jersey, bring your loudest cheer and settle in for a week of exciting hockey in Downtown DSM.
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The Happy Fits

Tuesday, March 24, 2026 | Wooly's
If indie rock with serious energy is your thing, The Happy Fits are bringing their electric live show to Wooly’s. The New Jersey trio has built a big following thanks to their catchy hooks, bold songwriting and energetic stage presence. Their latest album, Under the Shade of Green, mixes bright indie-rock melodies with a touch of psychedelic flair, creating songs that feel both fun and thoughtful at the same time. Expect a crowd that’s ready to sing along, bounce around and leave the show buzzing with new favorite songs.
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Also worth checking out this week: The Summer Set takes the stage at Wooly’s for a fun night of pop-rock.

Blood on the Clocktower Immersive Experience

Wednesday, March 25, 2026 | Rook Room Game Lounge & Cafe
If you love mystery games and dramatic storytelling, this immersive game night at the Rook Room is right up your alley. Blood on the Clocktower is a wildly popular social deduction game where players work together to figure out who among them is secretly plotting their downfall. Expect candlelight, eerie music and plenty of dramatic accusations as players take on roles like villagers, demons and mischievous minions. The evening starts with a village-style social hour at 5:30 p.m. before the game begins at 6 p.m. No experience required, just bring your best poker face.
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Iowa Wolves Home Game

Thursday, March 26, 2026 | Casey's Center
Basketball fans, this is your chance to catch the Iowa Wolves back in action at Casey’s Center. The Wolves bring high-energy NBA G League basketball to Downtown DSM, and every game feels like a full-on event with music, fan contests and plenty of crowd hype. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with tip-off at 6:30 p.m., giving you time to grab snacks and settle in before the action begins. Whether you’re a diehard basketball fan or just looking for a fun night out Downtown, Wolves games are a lively way to spend an evening.
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Football season may be over, but college basketball’s biggest tournament is here! Check out this blog featuring Downtown DSM sports bars perfect for catching your fave teams on the big screen.

Looking for something new to do this month? Downtown DSM has plenty of free ways to mix up your routine this March.

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