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.
Social events are great and offer a world of possibilities. You can make new friends, learn new skills, see things from different perspectives and it’s fantastic for your mental health. And never before has companionship and being able to spend time with others been as important as it is today.
You probably remember being a kid and going up to another person your age and saying, “Do you want to be friends?” and that was pretty much that. Friend made. Alas, it’s not quite as simple now that we’re grown up, but it doesn’t have to be as difficult or as awkward as we think. There are thousands of people out there who would love to meet up with others, finding them just takes a bit of help and that’s what we’re here for.
On this page, we hope you’ll find some interesting events in Des Moines where you can make some new friends.
Local Groups’ Events in Des Moines
Being Social #FridayEve
◦ When: Friday, Dec 20th
◦ 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(…)
Edgar Allen Poe Speakeasy Part II 🐦⬛
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 21st
◦ Where: The Tea Room
THIS EVENT WILL SELL OUT!
We are attending Friday, Dec 20th at 6PM!
Get your tickets SOON! $62 Each
Hey! Check out this event I found. Use my code COLETTEK75345 to get a $8.00 discount on tickets in the Fever app! https://feverup.com/m/259663?utm_source=fever_app_share&utm_medium=plan_detail&utm_campaign=259663_dsm&ref=COLETTEK75345 Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy: Part II – Des Moines
The Experienc(…)
Bird Walk Celebrating Winter Solstice
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 21st
◦ Where: Bill Riley Trail
This is our second Birding for Life Walk celebrating our fall and winter residents and visitors. Our theme for this walk will be winter and darkness as this day is the Winter’s Solstice and the shortest day of the year. We will be thinking about how birds survive the winter (and us too!). Perhaps, again like us, they know that Spring is coming!
During the walk we will have time for conversation, (…)
The Shop Around the Corner WATCH PARTY
◦ When: Tuesday, Dec 17th
◦ Where: Valley Community Center
See *The Shop Around the Corner* for free at 6:30pm on Monday, December 16th at the Valley Community Center. James Stewart, Margaret Sullivan, and Frank Morgan star, Ernst Lubitsch directs. Free popcorn and soft drinks provided.(…)
Boards and Brews at Twisted Vine Brewery
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 21st
◦ Where: Twisted Vine Brewery
Our mission at Boards and Brews is just that – playing fun board games and supporting local breweries. Anyone is welcome to join in on the fun. We are a non-competitive group and we play just about anything.
If you have a game that you’d like to play, feel free to bring it with you! Our organizers usually bring a selection of games, and we decide as a group which game/games we’d like to play.
We(…)
Des Moines Real Estate Investing – Friday Morning Coffee Meetup
◦ When: Friday, Dec 20th
◦ Where: Smokey Row Coffee
No agenda, just casually talking about real estate investing in Des Moines Area(…)
Unofficial DL-DSM Field Trip for DJ Bingo
◦ When: Friday, Dec 20th
◦ Where: Goodsons on Beaver
We decided to do one last unofficial event for 2024. We are taking a field trip to Goodsons to play DJ Bingo. It is a fun, no skill way to win prizes. The music starts at 6:30 PM and the game starts at 7:00 PM. So come out and have some fun.(…)
Dane’s Group
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 21st
◦ 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 (…)
AgileIowa Lean Coffee (IN PERSON)
◦ When: Thursday, Dec 19th
◦ 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(…)
Shut Up & Write!® Des Moines
◦ When: Tuesday, Dec 17th
◦ Where: Urbandale Public Library
Join us for an hour of focused writing! Write with other writers with no excuses to get in the way. Come put your fingers into action at the Urbandale Public Library.
This is a meeting to just write.
Be it a book, blog, script, essay, comic, fanfic, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write with us.
We’ll do some quick intros, talk about what we are w(…)
Open House
◦ When: Wednesday, Dec 18th
◦ Where: Area515
Come and visit us! Knock, say hi, and we’ll show you around and answer any questions you have.(…)
Christopher’s, see Christmas lights, then The Naughty List at Good News Darling
◦ When: Friday, Dec 20th
◦ Where: Christopher’s
[HOME | christophersdsm](https://www.christophersdsm.com/)
drive by Christmas lights on Ashby (2 blocks from Christopher’s)
## [Good News, Darling](https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=f2e77305dcca3b686532a5974ac1cb26ad8bbe60f5347d7ad6969f30e599bbf5JmltdHM9MTczMzI3MDQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=23498157-b7c1-6792-12d1-9462b6fb6696&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYmluZy5jb20vYWxpbmsvbGluaz91cmw9aHR0cHMlM2ElMmYlMmZ(…)
Content Jam!
◦ When: Tuesday, Dec 17th
◦ Where: Chandelier
Hey folks!
This is our free content Jam! If you have a concept for some live video content, want to play some improv, or just want to come watch; then feel free to stop by and join us for laughs.
Please email [email protected] if you have any questions!
Chandelier DSM
🎤 Ready to Laugh and Learn? 🎤
Local comedy gem Tim Overton is stepping off of the stage and into the classroom to share hi(…)
Morning Blend Networking
◦ When: Wednesday, Dec 18th
◦ Where: Ironside Axe Club
Business networking and axe throwing(…)
Being Social On a Mission
◦ When: Tuesday, Dec 17th
◦ Where: Jordan Creek Mall
Are you ‘On a Mission’ to improve your social life?
Lucky for you, there’s Being Social… and, then there’s Being On a Mission!
‘On a Mission’ is all about you pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone by surrounding yourself with likeminded people and then doing uncomfortable things, socially.
What’s that look like? Well, it’s definitely different for everyone!
For some, it’s attending a(…)
Drop-in Improv Classes: Advanced
◦ When: Tuesday, Dec 17th
◦ 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 (…)
Pop Up Word Up
◦ When: Thursday, Dec 19th
◦ 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, Dec 19th
◦ 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(…)
Pickleball Monday white and red court (Bruno)
◦ When: Tuesday, Dec 17th
◦ Where: The MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex
Get Ready for Tonight’s Pickleball Session at RexPlex! 🏓
Hi Everyone,
We’re excited to see you at tonight’s pickleball session! Here’s everything you need to know:
### **Location**
* **Venue:** RexPlex on Grand
* **Directions Inside:** When you enter, walk down the long hallway past the soccer field, all the way to the end. The pickleball courts will be on your **right**.
### **Timing**
* **S(…)
3D Printing Meetup
◦ When: Tuesday, Dec 17th
◦ Where: HartSmart Products
Join Brandon Hart to learn about and experiment with modern 3D printers and 3D printer technology. Area515 has a monthly 3D printer club meeting that can help you get the most out of your 3D printing experience and keep up on the latest news and information.
Free and open to the public!(…)
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
Holiday Slay Ride Drag Brunch
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 21st
◦ Where: THE GARDEN
A buffet-style drag brunch with unlimited Mimosa/Bloody Mary offerings available for purchase at the venue.
High-Level Strategies for Organizational Resilience: Disaster Recovery, Business Continuity
◦ When: Tuesday, Dec 17th
◦ Where: Heartland Business Systems
Learn key strategies to keep your business afloat during unforeseen disruptions at our event on Dec 17, 2024, at 11:30 AM!
Date me Dsm @ Revival House (35-45)
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 21st
◦ Where: Revival House
Join us Saturday, December 21 for an ugly sweater speed dating event for ages 35-45 from 6-9pm!
Miserable Holiday Cabaret
◦ When: Friday, Dec 20th
◦ Where: Tallgrass Theatre Co
Home for the holidays? Humbug! Comedy, Circus, Burlesque, & Music hosted by your Villainous Emcees, The Lucifer Jest and Miss Rosie Tempest
Build With Generative AI Workshop (in-person / virtual)
◦ When: Monday, Dec 16th
◦ Where: Drake Unversity, Collier-Scripps Hall
Attendees will learn to build a variety of useful content using generative AI tools.
Annual Bubbly Tasting
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 21st
◦ Where: WineStyles Tasting Station – West Glen
Join us for our Annual Bubbly Wine Tasting and pick out favorites to serve at your upcoming Holiday & New Year’s Eve Celebrations!
Saturdays at Ta’Chido Des Moines
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 21st
◦ Where: Ta’Chido Cantina, Court Avenue, Des Moines, IA, USA
Experience the best party in Downtown Des Moines. Saturdays until 2am.
Bonita Fridays at Ta’Chido Des Moines
◦ When: Friday, Dec 20th
◦ Where: Ta’Chido Cantina, Court Avenue, Des Moines, IA, USA
Experience the best Latin party in Des Moines. Fridays until 2am.
BOLLY TOLLY UGLY SWEATER XXMASS PARTY – WEST DES MOINES
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 21st
◦ Where: Westown Tap
Get ready to rock your most hideous, tacky, and fugly sweaters at the wildest holiday party of the year at WEST DES MOINES – Bolly Style !!
Date me Dsm Double Date Speed Dating @ Ken’s Speakeasy (28-40)
◦ When: Friday, Dec 20th
◦ Where: Ken’s – a not so secret speakeasy
Join us at Ken’s Speakeasy (below the Iowa Taproom). This is an ugly sweater double date speed dating event for ages 28-40 from 6-9pm!
Blissmas Ecstatic Dance with Stella Lumina
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 21st
◦ Where: Unity Church of Des Moines
This happening will leave you feeling full on every level. Find your bliss through music, movement, high vibe food, and community ❤️
Date me Dsm @ Either/Or (25-35)
◦ When: Tuesday, Dec 17th
◦ Where: Either/Or
Join us Tuesday, December 17 @ Either/Or for an ugly sweater speed dating event for 25-35 from 6-9pm!
Winter Cake Workshop
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 21st
◦ Where: Chacha’s Hiland Bakery
Join us for a fun Winter Cake Workshop where you’ll learn to decorate delicious cakes with a festive twist!
Pop Up Wine Tasting
◦ When: Thursday, Dec 19th
◦ Where: WineStyles Tasting Station – Ankeny
Join us for our last wine tasting before Christmas!
Cookies For Santa Cookie Workshop
◦ When: Friday, Dec 20th
◦ Where: Chacha’s Hiland Bakery
Come join us for a fun-filled afternoon of decorating cookies for Santa at our Cookie Workshop!
Savor Moxie: A Monthly Dinner Affair
◦ When: Thursday, Dec 19th
◦ 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.
Des Moines Business: The Science Of Sales & Marketing – For Beginners!
◦ When: Monday, Dec 16th
◦ 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!!!
Naughty Cookie Workshop
◦ When: Saturday, Dec 21st
◦ Where: Chacha’s Hiland Bakery
Join us for a fun and cheeky Naughty Cookie Workshop where we’ll bake and decorate deliciously mischievous treats!
Des Moines Professionals: Start Your Own Business? Or Remain a Corporate Citizen?
◦ When: Monday, Dec 16th
◦ 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!!!
New World Wine Education: Napa Valley, California (TUESDAY CLASS)
◦ When: Tuesday, Dec 17th
◦ 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!