Looking for a fun way to spend the weekend with the family? Whether you’re cheering at a basketball game, humming along to a musical, spinning on carnival rides, or launching kites into the spring sky, there’s no shortage of things to do. Des Moines and its neighboring suburbs are buzzing with events—from the massive Capital City Card Convention (yes, Ryne Sandberg will be there!) to a hilariously heartwarming bunny mishap on stage, and a laid-back kite fest in Johnston. Here are a few standout picks to help you make the most of your weekend—and keep boredom miles away.
Capital City Card Convention
Dates & Times: Friday, March 28: 3 PM–8 PM; Saturday, March 29: 10 AM–5 PM; Sunday, March 30: 10 AM–3 PM
Location: Community Choice Convention Center, 730 3rd St, Des Moines, IA
Description: Iowa’s largest card convention featuring 224 tables of dealers from across the country offering cards, memorabilia, and collectibles. Special guest: Chicago Cubs MLB Hall of Famer, Ryne Sandberg, signing autographs on Saturday. Kids 15 & under are FREE with an adult admission.
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical
- Dates & Times: Friday, March 28: 7 PM; Saturday, March 29: 1 PM & 4 PM; Sunday, March 30: 1 PM
- Location: Des Moines Playhouse, 831 42nd St, Des Moines, IA
- Description: Based on the popular book by Mo Willems, this musical tells the silly story of young Trixie, who loses her beloved Knuffle Bunny on a family trip to the laundromat. A fun experience for all ages.
Iowa Wolves Final Lap: Fan Appreciation Night
- Dates & Times: Saturday, March 29: 6:30 PM
- Location: Wells Fargo Arena, 730 3rd St, Des Moines, IA
- Description: Join the Iowa Wolves for their final home game of the season. Enjoy racecars, face painting, balloon artists, and plenty of family fun as they celebrate their fans.
Ankeny Spring Carnival
- Dates & Times: Saturday, March 29: 10 AM–4 PM
- Location: Centennial Park, 1255 Warrior Ln, Waukee, IA
- Description: A day filled with activities, including a petting zoo, inflatables, face painting, and live entertainment.
Children’s Art Workshop
- Dates & Times: Saturday, March 29: 1 PM–3 PM
Location: Urbandale Public Library, 3520 86th St, Urbandale, IA
Description: Kids can explore their creativity with various art projects. Materials provided.
- Dates & Times: Saturday, March 29: 1 PM–3 PM
Kite Flying Festival
- Dates & Times: Sunday, March 30: 11 AM–3 PM
- Location: Terra Park, 6300 Pioneer Pkwy, Johnston, IA
- Description: Bring your own kite or purchase one on-site. Enjoy a day of kite flying and family fun.
