Let’s explore social events in Des Moines, IA happening this week. Local events are a great way to meet new people and make new friends. Look through this page and consider going out and socializing during one of these social events.
Are you looking to take a break from your regular ventures, build friendships or develop emotional intelligence? Social events could just be just the thing you are missing. As they always say, one’s company, two’s a crowd, three’s a party. In these events, you will get to meet a whole new range of people, engage other cultures and understand different perspectives. You get opportunities to expand your circle through the interactions and conversations elicited. Whether you are looking to improve your social or work connections, this is it for you.
There are many events held across Des Moines, Iowa. Events range from backyard outings, outdoor activity events, singles events, professional networking, meaningful discussions, and more. They are all varied and interesting covering your lifestyle and preference. If you find it hard to make connections or socialize in these events, here are a few tips to save your situation.
Local Groups’ Events in Des Moines
Drop-in Improv Classes: Fundamentals
◦ When: Monday, Nov 18th
◦ Where: Chandelier
Hey folks! This is a drop-in improv class, runs every Monday. $10/class or $40/5 classes. Drop-in any time, or every time; cash or venmo up front, @tim-overton-2.
We’re offering fundamentals (character, ensemble/relationship, space/object work, game of the scene, and more), as well as advanced topics (forms/openings, hosting, business of improv, improv to sketch, musical improv, and more).
Please (…)
DSM AI Group Monthly Meeting (Speaker TBD)
◦ When: Tuesday, Nov 19th
◦ Where: We Write Code
Join us for the next DSM AI Group!
Topic and Speaker will be announced closer to the posted date.(…)
Join Us for a Dynamic Product Discovery Fishbowl Discussion! 🐟
◦ When: Tuesday, Nov 19th
◦ Where: 801 Grand
We’re excited to invite you to ProductTank Des Moines/Ames on Tuesday, November 19th, focused on **Discovery in Product Development**. Join us as we welcome two experienced speakers, Matt Crawford and Catherine (Cat) Schoenthal-Muse, who bring unique perspectives and insights from their own Discovery journeys.
Following their introductions, we’ll open up the floor for a fishbowl conversation, all(…)
Being Social #FridayEve
◦ When: Friday, Nov 22nd
◦ Where: Caribou Coffee
***Being Social #FridayEve* is THURSDAY evening.**
That should be your first clue that we’re a little wonky.
Don’t know what to say when you meet new people? Wallah!
At ‘Being Social,’ we’ll interact through icebreaker activities and other party games that spark friendly conversation, banter, laughter, surprise, and deeper connection.
No experience needed, no need to bring anything—just a love(…)
Only Angels Have Wings WATCH PARTY
◦ When: Tuesday, Nov 19th
◦ Where: Valley Community Center
“Each Day a Rendezvous With Peril… Each Night a Meeting With Romance!” – 1939 tagline for *Only Angels Have Wings*
See *Only Angels Have Wings* for free at 6:30pm on Monday, November 18th at the Valley Community Center. Cary Grant, Jean Arthur, Rita Hayworth, and Thomas Mitchell star, Howard Hawks directs. Free popcorn and soft drinks provided.(…)
November Lightning Talks
◦ When: Thursday, Nov 21st
◦ Where: Lean Techniques, Inc.
CIJUG presents Lightning Talks for our November Meetup! Join us on Thursday, November 21 from 5:30pm-7pm for learning at lightning speed! Never been to a lightning talk before? Speakers leverage limited time to launch their latest lessons, captivating listeners with succinct storytelling.
Josh Angolano (Lean Techniques) will discuss Kotlin Coroutines, William Griffin will present “Dr. Heisenberg (…)
Drinking Liberally Weekly Meetup
◦ When: Friday, Nov 22nd
◦ Where: The Station On Ingersoll
From now until January 2nd, 2025, we will be going back to our regular time and we will be meeting in the front bar of The Station. Because of the Miracle on Ingersoll, there will not be trivia in November or December. But if you have a free evening, please support our gracious hosts and stop by for a holiday themed drink.
Please join us for fun, drinks, food and a good time with liberally minded(…)
3D Printing Meetup Topic: Multi-Material 3D Printing
◦ When: Tuesday, Nov 19th
◦ Where: HartSmart Products
What’s better than 3D printing a part in an awesome material? Printing a part in several awesome materials, of course! But it’s not as simple as it may seem. How do you get the multiple colors to line up properly without bleeding into each other? How do you get your support material to adhere properly while still being able to break off or dissolve away? Let’s discuss it!
Also, for this last meetu(…)
Taps & Tags Vocal Social w/Vox Infinitus 🎙️
◦ When: Tuesday, Nov 19th
◦ Where: Westown Tap
Calling all vocalists, musicians, and enjoyers of music!! 🎙️
Taps & Tags social takes place on the 3rd Monday of every month at 7:30 PM at the Westown Tap in West Des Moines. 🍻
Come hang out and listen, or join in singing a tag or two over drinks with other musicians, friends, and yours truly, Vox Infinitus! 🎵
A men’s ensemble of this power and magnitude can only be described as limitless. �(…)
Fun & easy way to play more tennis (please read event description for details)
◦ When: Wednesday, Nov 20th
◦ Where: undefined
We’re still working to get more people into these Meetups, but our goal is to give PlayYourCourt members a few social tennis outings each week in addition to your practice sessions and Challenge League matches.
These Meetups are co-ed, super laid back, and all skill levels are welcome. Post your skill level and a suggested court in the comments section so we can round up as many players as we can(…)
Des Moines Real Estate Investing – Friday Morning Coffee Meetup
◦ When: Friday, Nov 22nd
◦ Where: Smokey Row Coffee
No agenda, just casually talking about real estate investing in Des Moines Area(…)
Dane’s Group
◦ When: Saturday, Nov 23rd
◦ Where: undefined
Everyone who is reading this is welcome to come anytime. The majority of players don’t sign up on meetup so we will be playing every week even though there is no one signing up on Meetup. The game is 5e Dungeon and Dragons from 11am to 5pm every Saturday at my house on the east side of Des Moines. It is an epic game filled with magic monsters and new wonders to discover. Whether you’re a seasoned (…)
Pop Up Word Up
◦ When: Thursday, Nov 21st
◦ Where: Des Moines
We’re popping up around the metro this summer for intriguing faith discussions, acts of justice and mercy, progressive bible study, game nights and more! 6pm Wednesdays. Check out our social media platforms or subscribe to our E-Newsletter for weekly locations and topics. [downtowndisciples.org ](https://www.downtowndisciples.org/) or email [[email protected]. ](mailto:admin@downtowndisc(…)
Weekly DREAM CATCHERS Wednesday Webinar
◦ When: Thursday, Nov 21st
◦ Where: School of Metaphysics
NEW FORMAT – CHECK US OUT!!!
Dream Catchers is your opportunity to directly engage with those who have studied and taught dreamwork for decades.
From wholistic health and healing to enhancing creativity and critical thinking, dreams are personal and reveal the significance of our waking life experiences.
Join us every Wednesday for a FREE Webinar beginning @ 6:30 pm (CT).
Attending this webina(…)
Real Estate Investing Strategies for Multifamily Investors
◦ When: Wednesday, Nov 20th
◦ Where: Java Joes CoffeeHouse
Join DSM Multifamily Real Estate Investors for an informative event focusing on everything you need to know about multifamily investing!
Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting out, this event will cover key strategies, market trends, and tips for success in the multifamily real estate market.
Network with like-minded individuals, learn from experienced investors, and gain valuable i(…)
AgileIowa Lean Coffee (IN PERSON)
◦ When: Thursday, Nov 21st
◦ Where: Machine Shed Restaurant Urbandale
Please join us for our next Lean Coffee event at the The Machine Shed in Urbandale. No virtual option will be provided.
The format of this meeting is simple:
• Show up
• Eat breakfast (optional)
• Suggest topics (scrum, kanban, product management, DevOps, cultural/organizational change)
• Vote on topics
• Discuss topics with the most votes
We hope to see you there!
(image credit: https://www.f(…)
Bienvenidos a charla en Español.
◦ When: Wednesday, Nov 20th
◦ Where: El Fogon
Bienvenidos! Charlamos en Español. Somos buenas gente.(…)
Latin Dance Night @ Miss Kittys
◦ When: Thursday, Nov 21st
◦ Where: Miss Kittys
Getting excited for Wednesday Night is Latin Night at Miss Kittys!!
Whether you’re new or a veteran to Latin Dance this is the perfect night to join us for a great night.
Intro lesson at 7:00 PM w/ social dancing afterwards with a life DJ. We play Salsa, Bachata, and even Zouk!!
(No partner required! Feel free to come solo, friends or partner!)(…)
Morning Blend Networking
◦ When: Wednesday, Nov 20th
◦ Where: Ironside Axe Club
Business networking and axe throwing(…)
Tips to meet people at social events
One of the best ways to meet new people at social events in Des Moines is by choosing a common theme or interest. If you like movies, why not go see a screening with people who also like movies! Then you already have something to talk about. Or if you’re into coffee or beer, a Coffee and Beer Garden Meet and Greet could be perfect for you. And keep in mind that smaller group settings can be less intimidating and easier to start conversations in.
Another thing that might worry you is introductions. Some people aren’t as keen on introducing themselves and others worry or get nervous about it. Why not level the playing field and go to an event where everyone is expected to introduce themselves and talk? It could be a networking event, an acting class, a singles event, or a book club. Not only are people looking to introduce themselves at these events but they’re also there to make friends.
Our final tip is on the age of the people you are going to meet. If you have your heart set on meeting people close to your own age, then research events so that you can find your chosen demographic. At the same time, we want to encourage you not to limit yourself. An age gap doesn’t necessarily mean a disconnect and the great thing about different age groups is that they can learn from each other!
You can find even more events in Des Moines on Traveliowa.com, Catchdesmoines.com, or Dsmpartnership.com.
RELATED: How To Meet People In Des Moines, Iowa
2024 Iowa Refugee Summit
◦ When: Friday, Nov 22nd
◦ Where: Iowa Events Center
Let’s come together at the 2024 Iowa Refugee Summit to discuss ways to support and welcome refugees in our community!
Reverend Horton Heat w/ Jason D. Williams
◦ When: Saturday, Nov 23rd
◦ Where: Lefty’s Live Music
Reverend Horton Heat w/ Jason D. Williams
SILTFEST 2024: Savoring Perennial Foods of Iowa
◦ When: Wednesday, Nov 20th
◦ Where: Living History Farms
Come join us at SILTFEST 2024 to taste the timeless flavors of Iowa’s perennial foods – it’s a delicious celebration you won’t want to miss!
Audit Automation: Next Level Assurance
◦ When: Tuesday, Nov 19th
◦ Where: Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Take your auditing skills to the next level with cutting-edge automation techniques at our event on November 19th at 11:30 AM!
Internal Investigator Training Workshop for New EEOC Standard
◦ When: Wednesday, Nov 20th
◦ Where: FFA Enrichment Center
Get ready to level up your investigative skills with our workshop on the new EEOC standards
November NAWIC Membership Meeting
◦ When: Tuesday, Nov 19th
◦ Where: Ahern Fire Protection
Join us for our November Membership Meeting where we will discuss details on learning how to properly use a fire extinguisher.
Marquee Night Out – WICKED-ly Delicious Mixology Tasting – Ankeny
◦ When: Wednesday, Nov 20th
◦ Where: B&B Theatres Ankeny 12 & B-Roll Bowling
Get ready for a fun night out at Marquee Night Out – Wicked, where you’ll learn about and enjoy some delicious drinks with friends!
Classic Speed Dating – Des Moines (Ages 40 & Under)
◦ When: Wednesday, Nov 20th
◦ Where: BeerStyles Taproom & Gastropub
Join us to meet fun singles for a series of “mini” dates – in real life!
West Des Moines Library Friends Foundation Candle Bar DSM Event
◦ When: Friday, Nov 22nd
◦ Where: West Des Moines Public Library
Join us at the West Des Moines Library Friends Foundation Candle Bar DSM Event for a fun-filled evening of candle-making and mingling
Harmonious Hearts: A Singles Sound Bath Experience
◦ When: Monday, Nov 18th
◦ Where: Tactical Fitness
A blend of relaxation, self-connection, and the potential for new connections in a soothing, sound-based environment.
Fri Nov 22 Drag Show – 10pm Table Reservation
◦ When: Friday, Nov 22nd
◦ Where: THE GARDEN
A fabulous drag show with phenomenal performers!
CHRISTMAS WREATH CLASS
◦ When: Tuesday, Nov 19th
◦ Where: Bellflower Florist & Gifts, LLC
Join us for a fun and festive Christmas wreath-making class where you’ll learn how to create your own beautiful holiday decoration!
Thanksgiving Cake Class
◦ When: Saturday, Nov 23rd
◦ Where: Chacha’s Hiland Bakery
Learn to decorate delicious Thanksgiving cakes with us in a fun and interactive class!
New World Wine Education: Willamette Valley, Oregon (WEDNESDAY CLASS)
◦ When: Wednesday, Nov 20th
◦ Where: WineStyles Tasting Station – West Glen
We’re ready to sail into the NEW WORLD for 2024! Join us as we taste, learn & enjoy new world wine regions each month!
Savor Moxie: A Monthly Dinner Affair
◦ When: Thursday, Nov 21st
◦ Where: 4119 University Avenue, Des Moines, IA, USA
Join us for Savor Moxie: A Monthly Dinner Affair, where we’ll indulge in a delicious five course dinner.
Happy COCKsgiving Cookie Decorating
◦ When: Thursday, Nov 21st
◦ Where: Chacha’s Hiland Bakery
Come join us for a fun and festive cookie decorating party to celebrate COCKsgiving – let’s get creative and spread some holiday cheer!
HOLIDAY COCKTAIL MIXOLOGY CLASS! SPECIAL POP-UP EVENT AT LUCCA RESTAURANT!
◦ When: Saturday, Nov 23rd
◦ Where: Lucca
Do something NEW & FESTIVE! Learn to make 3 handcrafted cocktails for the holidays! Hurry, space is limited, only 10 tickets available!
Des Moines Business: The Science Of Sales & Marketing – For Beginners!
◦ When: Monday, Nov 18th
◦ Where: Des Moines
OnLine, OnDemand, EverGreen & No Waiting! Start learning as soon as you register! Take it whenever you want! As many times as you want!!!
Des Moines Mixer – Baby Boomers Ages 60+
◦ When: Wednesday, Nov 20th
◦ Where: ChaCha’s Hiland Bakery
Join The Smitten Project for a friendship mixer!
Des Moines Professionals: Start Your Own Business? Or Remain a Corporate Citizen?
◦ When: Monday, Nov 18th
◦ Where: Des Moines
OnLine, OnDemand, EverGreen & No Waiting! Start learning as soon as you register! Take it whenever you want! As many times as you want!!!