It’s hard to believe that 2020 is almost here—but we’re excited to see all the new things Des Moines families can enjoy! From exciting new events to family friendly attractions, we know 2020 is going to be the best year yet. Here’s what you and the kids can look forward to in the new year.
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Here’s what you and the kids can look forward to in the new year in Des Moines:
Anastasia
Anastasia the newish Broadway musical based on the popular 1997 animated film, will make its Des Moines debut in 2020. This dazzling show transports us from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. The popular musical will be on stage at the Des Moines Civic Center February 15 – March 1, 2020.
Dave and Busters
Dave & Buster’s, a popular arcade and sports bar chain, announced plans to locate at Jordan Creek Town Center. Originally, they had planned to locate in the old Younkers location, but last month Von Maur announced that they will be moving into that space. We can look forward to learning where they will be locating in 2020.
E- Scooters
There’s a new wave of micro-mobility e-transportation sweeping the nation, and it’s inevitably coming to Des Moines. Love them or hate them, don’t be surprised if you see an e-scooter zip by you next year in Des Moines. The Iowa State Legislature, as well as, the Des Moines City Council has held different discussions about what rules would need to be enacted to regulate them.
Ironman 70.3
Des Moines is hosting the 2020 IRONMAN® 70.3® North American Championship on June 21, 2020. Be on the lookout for swimmers making a loop around Gray’s Lake, bikers rolling through Water Works Park, West Des Moines and rural Polk County and runners making their way downtown from the Pappjohn Sculpture Park to the Capitol.
National Geographic Live
The National Geographic Live speaker series will bring behind-the-scenes stories to Des Moines in 2020. Speakers share stories from the front lines of exploration onstage alongside stunning imagery and gripping footage. Shows include: “When Women Ruled the World” – January 21, 2010; “On the Trail of Big Cats” – February 18, 2020 and “View from Above” – March 24, 2020. All presentations are at the Des Moines Civic Center.
Professional Soccer Stadium
If everything goes as planned, we could see the construction of a new professional soccer stadium on the south side of downtown Des Moines next year. The 6,000- to 8,000-seat stadium would be home to a USL Championship soccer club that could begin play by 2022.
State Park Centennial
Backbone State Park in northeast, Iowa, was dedicated on May 28, 1920 and marks the beginning of the Iowa state park system. The Iowa DNR is planning numerous special events to celebrate the 100th anniversary of state parks throughout 2020 with the goal of celebrating, connecting and inspiring Iowans to visit and care for parks. Look for more information on centennial celebration opportunities here.
Water Trails Project
There are plans underway to reconnect us to our river roots, here in central Iowa. Kayakers, paddlers and maybe even surfers will gain better access to our local waterways in 2020. The Great Outdoors Foundation is leading the way fundraising for over 150 miles of water trails and more than 85 amenities, crossing multiple city and county lines.
What is your family looking forward to in Des Moines in 2020? We’d love to hear!
