What’s Happening Around Greater Des Moines This Week: Feb. 20-26
Whether you’re craving a cheesy night out (literally), craving a little live theater or just want to shake off the winter stir-craziness with a new activity, this week across Greater Des Moines (DSM) is full of ways to keep the winter blahs at bay this week. From Victorian-era London to galactic space battles to a community concert that’ll transport you straight to the Mediterranean, it’s a week of storytelling, sound and community spirit. Bonus: You can try your hand at table tennis, cheer on some chair volleyball champs or just drop in for good old-fashioned fun at the gym in Ankeny. There’s even a chance to become a gouda expert while supporting local farmers (yes, really). Let’s dive into this week’s can’t-miss picks, full of heart, humor and hometown pride.
Drop-In Gym Events
Friday, Feb. 20 – Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026 | Albaugh Family Senior Community Center, Ankeny
Need to move your body but want to keep things casual? The Albaugh Family Senior Community Center in Ankeny is offering a week full of free drop-in gym fun, and it’s not just for seniors! Think pickleball rallies, chair volleyball shenanigans and some competitive (or not) table tennis. Check the full schedule for dates and times and show up ready to play, laugh and maybe try something new. It’s a perfect way to meet people, get moving and break up your week. Just bring your good vibes and comfy shoes. Free with membership or $5 for a day-pass.
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Space Princess Wars
Friday, Feb. 20 – Sunday, Feb. 22 & Friday, Feb. 27 – Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026 | Miller Middle School Auditorium, Marshalltown
If Star Wars and The Princess Bride had a gloriously chaotic theater baby, it would be Space Princess Wars. Playing this weekend and next at Marshalltown’s Miller Middle School Auditorium, this cosmic comedy is filled with sassy robots, monologuing villains, lightsaber duels and just enough ridiculousness to have you laughing through hyperspace. It’s a little campy, a lot funny and perfect for fans of fairy tales, Sci-Fi and everything in between. Local students bring it all to life with heart, humor and a dash of space dust. Family-friendly and full of charm, it’s a must-see mashup that’s truly out of this world.
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Oliver! JR.
Friday, Feb. 20 – Sunday, March 8, 2026 | CAP Theater, Altoona
Consider yourself charmed. The beloved musical Oliver! JR. is lighting up the stage at CAP Theatre in Altoona, and it’s perfect for a family outing. Based on Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist, this junior version features memorable characters (hello, Fagin and the pickpockets), toe-tapping songs and a story filled with heart. Watch young Oliver navigate the streets of Victorian England in search of belonging, kindness and family. Performances run weekends Feb. 20 through March 8, with Friday evening and Saturday/Sunday matinee options. Local kids take the spotlight in this beautifully staged adaptation, so whether you’re a musical lover or introducing someone new to the theater, this one’s worth the ticket.
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Ports of Call Winter Concert
Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026 | Valley High School Staplin Performing Arts Center, West Des Moines
Ready for a sonic vacation? The Des Moines Community Orchestra’s winter concert Ports of Call invites you on a musical cruise through the Mediterranean. From the romance of Puccini to the drama of Verdi and the zest of Bizet, you’ll be swept away. No passport required. Bonus: it’s totally free (though donations are welcome). Arrive early for a pre-concert talk at 1:00 p.m. to get the inside scoop on the program from guest conductor Joshua Barlage and principal cellist Curtis Barr. Whether you’re a classical fan or just in need of something lovely on a Sunday afternoon, this cozy concert at Valley High School’s beautiful Staplin Performing Arts Center hits all the right notes.
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Cultivate Your Plate: Get to Know Your Gouda with Frisian Farms Cheese House
Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026 | Iowa Food Cooperative, Des Moines
Cheese lovers, this one’s for you! The Iowa Food Cooperative is hosting Cultivate Your Plate: Get to Know Your Gouda with the crew from Frisian Farms Cheese House, and it’s going to be delicious. You’ll learn how gouda goes from grass-fed cows to curds, and taste your way through fresh, aged, smoked and even 1,000-day-old varieties (yes, you read that right). Bonus: Your class fee directly supports local farmers and food access programs in the community. Top it all off with a shared meal, cheesy conversation and a whole lot of local pride. Thursday night dinner plans = officially made.
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February in Greater Des Moines (DSM) is full of surprising (and free!) ways to explore, celebrate and shake off those winter blues.
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