5 Fun Events Happening Across DSM This Week: March 20-26

Spring is officially settling into the Greater Des Moines (DSM) region, and the week of March 20-26 brings a lineup of fun ways to get out and try something new. You can celebrate the first day of spring by stargazing at Jester Park, get creative during a ceramic charcuterie board class in Winterset or help kick off the gardening season at a hands-on growing party in Knoxville. Broadway lovers can sing along to their favorite show tunes in Grinnell, while families can explore local businesses and activities at the Grimes Chamber Expo. From outdoor learning to creative workshops and community gatherings, these five events highlight a few ways to explore DSM this week.

Stargazing on the Equinox

Friday, March 20, 2026 | Jester Park Nature Center, Granger
What better way to celebrate the first day of spring than by looking up at the night sky? Head to Jester Park Nature Center for Stargazing on the Equinox, where you’ll kick off the evening with a short indoor program before stepping outside to spot planets and spring constellations. With wide-open skies and expert guidance from the nature center team, it’s a great chance to learn more about the universe while enjoying a peaceful night outdoors. The best part? It’s completely free and open to all ages, making it a perfect outing for families, curious kids or anyone who loves a good night under the stars.
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Ceramic Charcuterie Board Class

Friday, March 20, 2026 | Winterset Art Center, Winterset
If you love charcuterie boards and DIY projects, this class at the Winterset Art Center is calling your name. During this hands-on workshop, Artist-Teacher Marie Sussman will guide participants through creating their own ceramic charcuterie board from start to finish. All supplies are provided, so you can focus on shaping, designing and getting creative. After the class, you’ll have the option to glaze your piece during a later session or let staff take care of the finishing touches. Whether you’re coming with friends or flying solo, it’s a fun way to spend an evening making something beautiful and totally unique.
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Mid March Growing Party

Saturday, March 21, 2026 | Knoxville Community Garden, Knoxville
Ready to get your hands a little dirty in the best way? The Mid March Growing Party at the Knoxville Community Garden is a fun and meaningful way to kick off the growing season. This hands-on event focuses on improving soil health while bringing the community together to prepare the shared garden space for the months ahead. Participants will help add soil to garden beds while also learning about the components of healthy soil and why it matters for successful gardening. It’s part workday, part workshop and part community gathering, and perfect for gardeners, beginners and anyone excited for spring.
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Musical Theater Singalong

Tuesday, March 24, 2026 | Grinnell School of Music, Grinnell
Calling all Broadway lovers! The Musical Theater Singalong at the Grinnell School of Music is exactly what it sounds like, a joyful night of belting out your favorite show tunes alongside fellow musical fans. With live piano accompaniment from talented local musicians, participants will sing through a curated songbook filled with classics and modern hits from the stage. Requests are encouraged, so don’t be shy if you’ve got a favorite number in mind. Whether you sing every lyric or simply hum along, the atmosphere is relaxed, welcoming and full of musical energy.
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Grimes Chamber Expo

Wednesday, March 25, 2026 | Meadow's Gymnasium, Grimes
Discover what makes the Grimes business community so vibrant at the 16th Annual Grimes Chamber Expo. This free event invites guests to stroll through Meadows Gymnasium while exploring booths from local businesses and organizations. Expect plenty of giveaways, family-friendly activities and opportunities to connect with business owners from across the area. Kids will love the pop-up games and face painting, while adults can learn more about services, shops and resources available in the community. It’s a relaxed, come-and-go style event that’s perfect for families, neighbors and anyone curious about the local businesses that help the community thrive.
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March is bringing a fresh burst of activity to Greater Des Moines (DSM), with free events happening all across the region.

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