Here’s What’s Happening This Week in DSM: Jan. 23-29

January might be wrapping up, but there’s still plenty of excitement happening across Greater Des Moines (DSM) to keep you entertained and out of hibernation mode. Whether you’re in the mood for high-energy sports, circus thrills, medieval-style merriment or an adorably chaotic cat show (yes, really), this week’s lineup has something to shake up your routine. We’re talking back-to-back basketball games, a 75-year circus tradition and a chance to channel your inner knight—or just laugh until your face hurts at a comedy night in Bondurant. Keep reading for five can’t-miss events happening Jan. 23-29 across the DSM region, from Windsor Heights to West Des Moines and everywhere in between.

Za Ga Zing Shrine Circus

Friday, Jan. 23 – Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026 | Iowa State Fairgrounds, Des Moines
It’s baaaack! The 75th Annual Za Ga Zig Shrine Circus is rolling into the Iowa State Fairgrounds for a milestone year of three-ring magic. This beloved Central Iowa tradition has it all—daring acrobatics, hilarious clowns, classic circus snacks and wide-eyed wonder for the whole fam. Hosted at the Jacobson Exhibition Center, the circus is the perfect indoor escape with a nostalgic twist. Bonus: This year’s show is packed with special surprises to honor its 75th year, so don’t miss your chance to be part of the fun!
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Za-Ga-Zig Circus

Also worth checking out: The whimsical Circus of Bubbles brings larger‑than‑life fun to the Franklin Jr. High Event Center on Saturday, Jan. 24 in Des Moines.

Collegiate Athletics

Friday, Jan. 23 – Thursday, Saturday, Jan. 29, 2026 | Various Greater DSM Locations
From basketball courts to gymnastic mats, wrestling arenas to swimming lanes, DSM college athletics are bringing serious action this week. Whether you’re cheering courtside or looking to support a local school, these events are a great way to get out, get loud and see some top-tier talent.

Here’s what’s on deck over the next week:

Drake University Women's Basketball – Friday, Jan. 23 at 6 p.m.
Drake University Men’s Basketball – Saturday, Jan. 24 at 12 p.m.
Grand View University Women’s Basketball – Saturday, Jan. 24 at Noon
Grinnell College Men’s Basketball – Saturday, Jan. 24 at 1 p.m.
Grand View University Men’s Basketball – Saturday, Jan. 24 at 2 p.m.
Simpson College Women’s Gymnastics – Saturday, Jan. 24 at 2 p.m.
Grinnell College Women’s Basketball – Saturday, Jan. 24 at 3 p.m.
Simpson College Men’s Gymnastics – Saturday, Jan. 24 at 5 p.m.
Central College Women’s Basketball – Saturday, Jan. 24 at 5 p.m.
Central College Men’s Basketball – Saturday, Jan. 24 at 7 p.m.
Central College Women’s Wrestling – Saturday, Jan. 24
Simpson College Men’s Swimming – Saturday, Jan. 24
Simpson College Women’s Swimming – Saturday, Jan. 24
Drake University Women’s Basketball – Sunday, Jan. 25 at 2 p.m.
Grand View University Women’s Basketball – Wednesday, Jan. 28 at 5:30 p.m.
Drake University Men’s Basketball – Wednesday, Jan. 28 at 6:30 p.m.
Grand View University Men’s Basketball – Wednesday, Jan. 28 at 7:30 p.m.
Grand View University Women’s Wrestling – Thursday, Jan. 29 at 5 p.m.
Grand View University Men’s Wrestling – Thursday, Jan. 29 at 7 p.m.

Grinnell Men's Basketball

Teehee’s Comedy Club: Live Comedy Night

Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026 | Reclaimed Rails, Bondurant
Get ready to laugh your way through the weekend at Reclaimed Rails, where Teehee’s Comedy Club is bringing two back-to-back comedy shows to the taproom. Grab a craft beer, settle in and enjoy a rotating lineup of stand-up comics ready to bring the funny. There are two shows to choose from — 5:30 and 8:30 p.m. — so whether you’re an early bird or night owl, there’s a seat with your name on it. Bonus: The cozy brewery vibes make this the perfect lowkey night out.
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Teehee's Live Comedy

Midwinter Medieval Fest

Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026 | Ironside Axe Club, West Des Moines
Hear ye, hear ye! Ironside Axe Club is hosting a winter bash fit for a king. Step into a roaring tavern vibe, complete with live music, games, hearty drinks and a medieval vendor market. Come in costume or just come as you are — this Midwinter Medieval Fest is the kind of immersive fun that warms you up from the inside out. Test your aim with axe throwing, browse local wares, sip some grog and toast to good times. Revelry awaits!
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Smitten Kitten Community Cat Show

Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026 | Windsor Heights Community & Events Center, Windsor Heights
Fluff, sass and whiskers galore! The 7th Annual Smitten Kitten Cat Show is back in Windsor Heights and it’s pawsitively purrfect. Even if you don’t have a feline competitor in the ring, come vote in the People’s Choice Awards, shop the kitty-themed pop-up and browse adoptable cats. Categories include “Most Disinterested,” “Best Cage Décor” and “Best Use of Fluff.” All proceeds support Whiskers TNR, a local organization helping community cats through trap-neuter-return efforts. If you love cats (or just want to meet some characters), don’t skip this.
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Smitten Kitten Cat Show

January in Greater Des Moines (DSM) is full of feel-good, no-cost fun — with free events popping up all month long.

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.

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 12 counties in Greater Des Moines: Adair, Clarke, Dallas, Guthrie, Jasper, Madison, Mahaska, Marion, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek and Warren. 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. 