Des Moines, IA Events

MCLD 201-B: Mentoring, Coaching and Leadership Development Certification

Mon, Apr 6, 2026 – Sun, Jun 14, 2026

A certificate process to become a better leader through compassionate listening, discovery learning and the IDEA method. Includes workshops and mentor coaching practicum with homework and supervisor appointments. Total cost $750 non-refundable.

Springbrook State Park Multifamily Cabin Reservation

Tue, Apr 28, 2026 – Wed, Apr 21, 2027

The Sherburne House at Springbrook State Park offers a perfect venue for professional retreats and extended work meetings. This 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom cabin sleeps 12 and provides a full kitchen and living areas for comfortable accommodations. Reservations can be made year-round with a 7-day advance booking requirement.

Springbrook State Park Group Shelter Reservation

Fri, May 1, 2026 – Wed, Sep 30, 2026

Reserve one of the two beautiful stone picnic shelters at Springbrook State Park for your business meetings, corporate retreats, or professional networking events. The Beach Shelter offers electricity, water and restrooms, while the CCC Shelter features a fireplace, electricity, water and nearby facilities. Available May 1 - September 30. Advance reservations required.

Des Moines Business Networking at Farmers' Market

Sun, May 17, 2026 – Sat, Oct 31, 2026

Take the opportunity to network with local businesses and professionals while enjoying breakfast burritos and the vibrant atmosphere at the Des Moines Farmers' Market. A perfect mix of business and community engagement.

Central Iowa Business Conference 2026

Thu, May 21, 2026

Join hundreds of business professionals for the annual Central Iowa Business Conference on Thursday, May 21, 2026! This premier event brings together CEOs, business owners, investors, community leaders, and entrepreneurs for a full day of inspiration and education. Benefit from top-level speakers, cutting-edge topics, and fantastic networking opportunities to take your business to a new level. Organized by the Urbandale Chamber of Commerce, this conference aims to provide valuable insights and connections for all businesses in Central Iowa.

Pollinator Plug Planting Workshop

Sat, May 23, 2026

Join us for a meaningful afternoon at Starr’s Cave Nature Center as we grow our local ecosystem and honor a special legacy. This workshop includes professional advice on native plant growth and maintenance from Samuel of Prairie Roots Landscaping. It's a great networking opportunity for professionals in landscaping, horticulture, and environmental conservation.

Des Moines Con 2026

Fri, May 29, 2026 – Sun, May 31, 2026

Des Moines Con is a tabletop gaming event held at the Iowa Events Center, Hy-Vee Hall in Des Moines, IA from May 29 to May 31, 2026. Although primarily focused on tabletop gaming and comic culture, it is a gathering place for enthusiasts and professionals in the gaming and pop culture industries to network and share industry knowledge.

2026 Hy-Vee Summer Arts Series by Des Moines Performing Arts

Sat, May 30, 2026 – Sun, Aug 30, 2026

Experience the 2026 Hy-Vee Summer Arts Series, a vibrant slate of events including performances such as Polyglot Theatre’s Bees, FLIP Fabrique: Summer Break, Domino Effect by Ingrid Ingrid, Storytime Under the Green Umbrella, and Dance Fitness with Tony Zika. These events provide opportunities for professional networking in the arts community and cultural enrichment. No reservations or tickets are required – just bring chairs or blankets for seating.

2026 Annual APDA Iowa Parkinson’s Conference

Fri, Jun 5, 2026

The 2026 APDA Iowa Parkinson’s Conference is a full-day event for individuals impacted by Parkinson’s disease, care partners, family members, and healthcare professionals. It features nationally recognized speakers, breakout sessions, and provides practical tools and strategies for living well with Parkinson’s. The conference focuses on education, inspiration, and connection, emphasizing community engagement and support networks to improve quality of life.

Team Chartering: The Secret to Effective Collaboration

Mon, Jun 8, 2026

Join DSM Web Geeks for an interactive session with Whitney Lovelace exploring the art of the Team Charter to align diverse personalities into cohesive, high functioning teams. Learn to facilitate honest conversations about working styles, establish team expectations, and build accountability into team culture. This practical session will help you improve collaboration within your own teams immediately. Whitney Lovelace is a technology consultant specializing in strategy, product delivery, and enterprise transformation.

Young Professionals Connection Meetup

Wed, Jun 10, 2026

A monthly meetup for young professionals in Des Moines to network, share career advice, and build connections in a supportive and social environment.

Comprehensible Iowa 2026 Conference

Fri, Jun 12, 2026

Join the Comprehensible Iowa 2026 Workshops and Conference focused on language learning and teaching using comprehensible input methods. This event provides professional development opportunities for educators and language professionals, featuring keynote speakers, workshops, and networking opportunities. The conference is held at Merrill Middle School in Des Moines, Iowa on June 12th and 13th, 2026. Lunch is provided. Graduate credit is available for attendees.

SceneIt.us 2026 Midwest Construction Expo (Commercial & Residential)

Fri, Jun 12, 2026

A major construction industry expo showcasing the latest trends, tools, and technologies for professionals in commercial and residential construction. Offers networking and learning opportunities.

Iowa High School Sports Awards

Fri, Jun 12, 2026

Recognizing Iowa athletics by honoring the state’s top-performing athletes, coaches and teams. This event is a professional recognition and networking opportunity in the sports industry.

Golf & Grill Classic

Mon, Jun 15, 2026 – Wed, Jun 17, 2026

Network in a relaxed setting at ICA’s most popular social event. Play a round of golf with industry peers and enjoy a casual evening BBQ.

2026 TBA Classic - Muay Thai World Expo & Championships

Wed, Jun 17, 2026

A professional event featuring the Muay Thai World Expo and Championships, providing networking opportunities for sports and fitness professionals, athletes, and industry participants.

Iowa Board of Educational Examiners Meeting - June 18-19, 2026

Thu, Jun 18, 2026

Attend the June meeting of the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners to connect with education professionals and leaders focused on licensure, professional development, and ethical standards. This two-day meeting provides an expanded opportunity for networking and professional growth.

Des Moines Fairgrounds Gun Show - June 2026

Fri, Jun 26, 2026 – Sun, Jun 28, 2026

The Des Moines Fairgrounds Gun Show in June, hosted by Trade Show Productions, provides an opportunity for firearm industry professionals and enthusiasts to network and explore new products. Attendees must comply with all federal, state, and local firearm laws.

2026 Des Moines Arts Festival

Fri, Jun 26, 2026 – Sun, Jun 28, 2026

The 2026 Des Moines Arts Festival is a premier event for professional artists to exhibit and network in downtown Des Moines, Iowa. Confirmed artists can participate in the festival from June 26 to June 28, 2026, with opportunities for career advancement, showcasing art, and professional engagement in an esteemed urban festival setting. The festival includes artist check-in, load-in, and awards jury sessions, providing a professional platform for artists to connect and present their original work.

Upcoming events

MCLD 201-B: Mentoring, Coaching and Leadership Development Certification

Springbrook State Park Multifamily Cabin Reservation

Springbrook State Park Group Shelter Reservation

Des Moines Business Networking at Farmers' Market

Central Iowa Business Conference 2026

Pollinator Plug Planting Workshop

Des Moines Con 2026

2026 Hy-Vee Summer Arts Series by Des Moines Performing Arts

2026 Annual APDA Iowa Parkinson’s Conference

Team Chartering: The Secret to Effective Collaboration

Young Professionals Connection Meetup

Comprehensible Iowa 2026 Conference

SceneIt.us 2026 Midwest Construction Expo (Commercial & Residential)

Iowa High School Sports Awards

Golf & Grill Classic

2026 TBA Classic - Muay Thai World Expo & Championships

Iowa Board of Educational Examiners Meeting - June 18-19, 2026

Des Moines Fairgrounds Gun Show - June 2026

2026 Des Moines Arts Festival

PI/CPC Monthly Meeting - July

MCLD 101-A: Mentor Coaching Skills Training

Young Professionals Connection Meetup

2026 Innovation Iowa