April 17, 2026
By: Greater Des Moines Partnership
Your Guide to DSM’s 5 Can’t-Miss Events: April 17-23
Header image courtesy of Drake Athletics.
Looking for something to do this week? April 17-23 brings a mix of can’t-miss events across the Greater Des Moines (DSM) region, all worth adding to your calendar. From one of the area’s most iconic athletic traditions to live music, community celebrations and unique local experiences, there’s a lot to explore. You can spend time outdoors giving back, catch a live show or take part in events that bring people together in fun and unexpected ways. Whether you’re planning ahead for the weekend or just looking to fill an evening, here are five can’t-miss events happening across DSM this week.
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Live Music Prairie Meadows
Friday, April 17, Saturday, April 18 & Tuesday, April 21, 2026 | Prairie Meadows, Altoona
Looking for live music without the ticket price? Prairie Meadows has you covered this week with a lineup of free shows in the Finish Line Show Lounge. Kick things off Friday with The Detour Band, bringing tight harmonies and crowd-favorite covers. Saturday leans country with Jesse and the Medicine Men, and Tuesday keeps things classic with country music from Clarksville Stations. Whether you go for one show or all three, it’s a great way to mix a little live entertainment into your week.
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5 Women Wearing the Same Dress
Fridays, April 17 & 24; Saturdays, April 18 & 25, 2026 | IVCCD Orpheum Theater Center, Marshalltown
If you’re in the mood for something a little witty, a little dramatic and very relatable, this play delivers. 5 Women Wearing the Same Dress takes place during a chaotic wedding reception where five bridesmaids sneak away upstairs, each with their own reason for avoiding the festivities. What starts as awkward small talk quickly turns into sharp humor, unexpected honesty and a whole lot of bonding. With a mix of big personalities, messy backstories and laugh-out-loud moments, it’s the kind of show that feels both entertaining and a little too real. Grab a seat and settle in for a show full of comedy, connection and a bit of chaos.
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Photo Credit: Drake Athletics
Drake Relays Events
Saturday, April 18 – Saturday, April 25, 2026 | Drake Stadium, Des Moines
It’s one of the most iconic weeks in DSM, and even if you’re not competing, there’s plenty to experience around Drake Relays. From races to quirky traditions, the energy builds all week long and spills out across the community.
- Drake Road Races (April 18): Cheer on runners as they finish their 5k, 10k or half marathon on the famous Blue Oval inside Drake Stadium.
- Beautiful Bulldog Contest (April 19): A fan-favorite tradition where English Bulldogs strut their stuff for the crown.
- Grand Blue Mile (April 21): A high-energy Downtown DSM street run that’s just as fun to watch as it is to participate in.
- Drake Relays (April 22–25): One of the top track and field events in the country, bringing elite athletes and big crowds.
If you’re trackside or just soaking up the local community atmosphere, it’s a week that defines spring in DSM.
Also happening at Drake University this week: Jazz Appreciation Month Concert on Sunday, April 19 at the Turner Jazz Center.
Celebrate Earth Day & Arbor Day
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | Various Norwalk City Parks, Norwalk
If you’re looking for a way to get outside and give back, Norwalk’s Earth Day and Arbor Day activities are a great place to start. These volunteer-focused projects bring the community together to support local parks and green spaces while celebrating the importance of caring for the environment. Whether you’re planting, helping with cleanup efforts or just learning more about the impact of these initiatives, it’s a meaningful way to spend part of your day. Plus, it’s a good excuse to get outside, enjoy the fresh air and be part of something that benefits the whole community.
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United Way of Jasper County’s Voices of Inspiration: Dr. Justin Glisan
Thursday, April 23, 2026 | DMACC Newton Campus, Newton
Let’s be honest, Iowans love talking about the weather. This event takes that everyday conversation to a whole new level. Dr. Justin Glisan, Iowa’s State Climatologist, is sharing insights into how weather patterns impact the state, from agriculture to daily life. It’s designed to feel more like a relaxed, open discussion than a formal lecture, with plenty of interesting takeaways along the way. Whether you’re genuinely curious or just enjoy a good weather conversation, it’s a unique chance to hear from the expert who’s tracking it all.
LEARN MORE
If you’ve been waiting for a reason to get out and about, April in Greater Des Moines (DSM) has a few free options worth checking out.
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Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the largest regional business, economic development and talent development organization in Iowa and the second-largest regional chamber of commerce in the country, serving multiple counties in Greater Des Moines. Together with more than 400 Investors and an Affiliate Chamber of Commerce network of more than 7,200 Regional Chamber Members, The Partnership helps businesses grow and advances quality of life in Greater Des Moines with one voice, one mission and as one region, contributing to a vibrant regional economy.