Free Things to Do in Greater Des Moines: March Edition
March in Greater Des Moines (DSM) is packed with free ways to get out and explore. Ready to plan something fun? Here are five free events happening across DSM this month.
Iowa Artists 2026 Exhibition: Henry Payer
Now – Wednesday, June 17, 2026 | Des Moines Art Center, Des Moines
If you’ve been meaning to spend more time at the Des Moines Art Center, this is your sign. The latest installment of the long-running Iowa Artists exhibition series spotlights Sioux City-born artist Henry Payer, a member of the Ho Chunk people. His mixed-media work blends Native traditions with Western pop culture in ways that feel personal, layered and powerful. Expect collages, sculpture and a striking canoe-inspired installation that explores identity, history and belonging. It’s thoughtful without feeling stuffy, the kind of exhibit you wander through slowly and talk about afterward. And yes, it’s completely free.
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Iowa Gold Star Military Museum Drop In Tour
Saturdays, March 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2026 | Iowa Gold Star Military Museum, Johnston
History buffs (or just curious minds), this one’s worth the short drive. Every Saturday at 11:30 a.m., the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum offers free docent-led tours that walk you through Iowa’s military story, from statehood to present day. You’ll hear about real Iowans, real service and real sacrifice, all inside a museum dedicated to honoring veterans and preserving their stories. It’s meaningful, educational and surprisingly engaging, even if you don’t consider yourself a “museum person.” No ticket required, just show up and be ready to learn something new.
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Pub Trivia Nights
Tuesdays, March 10 & March 24, 2026 | The Cellar Peanut Pub, Pella
Trivia Tuesday is back at The Cellar Peanut Pub in Pella, and it’s the perfect excuse for a midweek outing. Grab up to four of your smartest (or loudest) friends and show up ready for three rounds of 10 questions. No registration. No cost. Just you, your team name and your random knowledge of everything from pop culture to history. There are prizes, there’s beer and there’s always that one question that makes everyone groan. It happens the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m., so mark your calendar now.
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Community Farmers Spring Craft Market
Saturday, March 14, 2026 | Berean Church, Pleasant Hill
If you love a good local market, clear your Saturday. The Community Farmers Spring Craft Market in Pleasant Hill brings together more than 70 local makers under one roof, and every single vendor creates, bakes, grows or raises what they sell. No middlemen, no mass-produced stuff. Just handmade art, baked goods, home décor, garden goodies and spring inspiration everywhere you look. It’s indoors (hello, unpredictable March weather), family-friendly and full of that “small business community” energy we all love.
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Free Outdoor Adventures Across the Region
Throughout March | Various Greater DSM Locations
March is prime time for shaking off the winter slump, and DSM has plenty of free ways to do it outside. Lace up your walking shoes and check out these upcoming adventures:
Fresh air, wide-open spaces and a little seasonal magic? Yes, please!
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