Happy New Year! The year 2020 is here and it brings new and exciting events around town for you to enjoy. Our list of don’t-miss events will motivate you to put on your winter gear and get out and about in Des Moines. Here’s what’s happening this January and February.

Summerset Winery

Where: 15101 Fairfax Street, Indianola, Iowa 50125

Located just minutes outside of Des Moines, Summerset Winery offers year round events, wine tastings, and tours. January and February’s chilly temperatures are no exception. Through January 6^th, the winery is offering a wine tasting and tour, which includes a selection of wines, local cheeses, and the grand tour of their wine cellar. On January 18^th, they’re presenting a wine and burlesque night which includes a Vaudeville style burlesque show and food and wine for purchase. Keep up with your New Year’s resolution on January 25^th at Pound and Pour, a fun and energetic one hour workout followed by relaxing with a well-earned glass of wine. Lastly, on February 9^th, join other couples in their Valentine’s Couples Cookie Decorating Class.

Beer Release Destination IPA - Jamaica

Where: Firetrucker Brewery

When: January 8^th

Come out to the Firetrucker Brewery to sample their new beer inspired by Jamaica. This east coast style IPA is made with intense hops that are balanced with piney flavors of citrus and fruit.   Hang out for the Open Mic Night, enjoy some Jamaican jerk tacos, and enter to win a 64 oz. Growler.

Visual DisObedience Exhibit

Where: Anderson Gallery

When: Every week through February 14^th (Mondays excluded)

Visual Disobedience is an amazing exhibit for those art enthusiasts that enjoy art that is thought-provoking. Curator Lenore Metrick-Chen selected the featured works because they depict the local artistic activism about subjects such as race, immigration, identity, capitalism, and patriotism. The goal of the art is to propose new thoughts and illicit questions through the work.

Let’s Roam Des Moines Scavenger Hunt

Where: Des Moines

When: Ongoing

Everyone loves a scavenger hunt, but Let’s Roam has designed one with a historical and technological twist. The app-lead scavenger hunt gives you riddles to solve while leading you on the trail of different landmarks around the city. Grab yourself a crew and test your knowledge through riddles, trivia questions, and photo challenges as you tour and learn about the city you live in.

East Village Food Walking Tour

Where: Historic East Village

When: Ongoing

Calling all foodies! The East Village, originally known as the center for finance and government, was revitalized in the early 2000’s and is now home to some of the best restaurant in Des Moines. This culinary walking tour includes chef's specialties at three separate restaurants, drinks, and a tour host who will discuss ingredients, flavors, as well as the history of the area. 

Cinch World’s Toughest Rodeo

Where: Wells Fargo Arena

When: January 10^th and 11^th

Who’s ready to rodeo? The Cinch World’s Toughest Rodeo is sure to be an action packed, competitive show. Watch as some of the best cowboys in the country compete to be named the Toughest. They’ll also be competing to qualify to ride in the million dollar American Rodeo in Dallas, as well as qualifying to compete at the Nationals Final Rodeo for the World Champion title. There is a lot at stake for these cowboys, so come on out and cheer them on.

Des Moines Culturecon

Where: Val Air Ballroom

When: January 11^th

The 2^nd annual Des Moines Culturecon is a venue that showcases local musicians, artists, and businesses that make Des Moines one of a kind. This music and arts festival will feature artists such as Lav.ish, UVT, Juliano Dock and Bagz Marley, and vendors such as Red Bull, Iowa Chill, and Human Clothing. The evening is sure to be an eclectic blend of creative minds sharing their talents and styles.

Des Moines has a lot to offer if you want to get out and about this winter. Start your New Year off right by taking part in the events of the area. What are some winter events you’d like to go to?