What’s Happening Around Greater DSM: 5 Events You’ll Love (May 9–15)

From wine walks to renaissance revelry, this week in Greater Des Moines (DSM) is stacked with ways to get out, explore and celebrate the spring season. Whether you’re shopping for the perfect Mother’s Day gift, sipping local wine on a historic square, bonding over brunch and blooms or throwing it back at a medieval faire, there’s something unforgettable waiting just outside your front door. You’ll find events happening across the DSM region — from Marshalltown to Winterset, Greenfield to Oskaloosa — and each one is full of personality. Need a little downtime and connection? We’ve got you covered there, too. Keep scrolling for five can’t-miss happenings, plus a roundup of sweet and totally memorable Mother’s Day events to make the most of your week.

Coffee & Camaraderie

Friday, May 9, 2025 | Iowa Veterans Home, Marshalltown
Start your Friday morning with something meaningful. Coffee & Camaraderie at the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown offers a welcoming space for veterans to gather, connect and share support — all over hot coffee, juice and cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re a long-time veteran or just looking to meet others who’ve walked a similar path, this event is all about building bonds and making sure no one feels alone. It’s casual, heartfelt and held the first Friday of each month—so even if you can’t make it this time, go ahead and mark your calendar for the next one.
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Travellers Renaissance Faire

Friday, May 10 – Saturday, May 11, 2025 | Adair County Fairgrounds, Greenfield
Ready thy cloak and grab a turkey leg — it’s time to get medieval! The Travellers Renaissance Faire returns to Greenfield with a colorful, come-one-come-all celebration of food, fun and old-school flair. This isn’t your typical fest — it’s a bazaar-style experience inspired by the roving entertainers and merchants of the past, complete with handmade goods, live performers, S & R Pony Rides and enough immersive charm to make you feel like you’ve stepped into another era. Whether you’re here to shop unique crafts, watch swordplay or just indulge in some giant pretzels, you’ll find magic around every corner. Costumes highly encouraged. Good times guaranteed.
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Shop The Alley Vendor Show

Saturday, May 10, 2025 | The Alley, Oskaloosa
Moms deserve the best — and maybe a little last-minute shopping trip, too. Head to The Alley in downtown Oskaloosa for a breezy spring vendor show that’s perfect for snagging a one-of-a-kind Mother’s Day gift (or three). From handmade crafts and self-care goodies to sweet treats and unique finds, it’s a treasure trove of small business magic, all packed into a fun, walkable outdoor space. Bring your crew, grab a coffee and vibe your way through this Saturday morning shop-fest. Pro tip: Even if you’re not on the hunt for gifts, you’ll probably leave with something irresistible anyway.
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Winterset Wine Walk

Saturday, May 10, 2025 | Madison County Courthouse Square, Winterset
Sip, stroll and shop your way through charming downtown Winterset at the always-popular Winterset Wine Walk. With more than 20 locally made wines to sample, a commemorative glass, music, shopping and small-town magic around every corner, it’s the perfect way to spend a spring Saturday. Tickets are timed to keep things relaxed and uncrowded (smart!), and each one includes a $5 coupon to use toward your favorite bottle of wine. Make a day of it with your besties, your date or your wine-loving crew — and don’t forget to grab your gift bag by reserving your spot early!
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Mother’s Day Events

Various Dates & Locations in Greater DSM
Whether your mom is into mimosas, hikes, painting, brunch — or all of the above — there’s no shortage of creative and heartfelt ways to show her some love this week. From tea at a historic mansion to flower-filled workshops and relaxing paint-and-sip nights, DSM is blooming with events that’ll help you celebrate your mom, your bonus mom, your grandma or yourself. Here are just a few ways to celebrate:

• Mother’s Day Tea – Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Terrace Hill in Des Moines
• Mother’s Day Hike – Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Hanging Rock Park in Redfield
• Mother’s Day Weekend Celebration – Saturday, May 10 & Sunday, May 11, 2025 at Ted Lare Garden Center in Cumming
• Mother’s Day Brunch & Blooms – Sunday, May 11, 2025 at Middlebrook Mercantile in Norwalk
• Moms & MOMosa’s Workshop – Sunday, May 11, 2025 at Board & Brush Creative Studio in Clive
• Lilacs for Mom – Sunday, May 11, 2025 at Painting with a Twist in Urbandale
• Mother’s Day Paint & Sip – Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at Confluence Brewing Co. in Des Moines
• Mother’s Day Paint & Sip – Friday, May 16, 2025 at Oakland Acres in Grinnell
• Belated Mother’s Day Paint & Sip – Sunday, May 18, 2025 at Brightside Aleworks in Altoona

So many sweet ways to make memories — pick your favorite(s) and make a plan!

For additional events and seasonal festivities coming up in Greater Des Moines (DSM), visit the calendar of events. You can also find live music happening each week thanks to the “Live Music This Week in DSM” blog series. Plus, follow @DSMpartnership on Instagram for even more things-you-just-can’t-miss happening around DSM.