DES MOINES, Iowa — They say April showers bring May flowers, but that doesn't mean April isn't brimming with possibilities. Whether you're looking to enjoy ballet, bookstores or a day on the Blue Oval, there are plenty of events in central Iowa for you to check out.
Local 5 rounded up five events taking place this weekend to wrap up the month of April.
Have an event you want featured in Local 5's Weekend Guide? Text us at 515-457-1026 or email us at news@weareiowa.com.
- When: Friday, April 26, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday, April 27, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Where: 205 County Line Road, Des Moines
- Price: Free to attend, plant price varies
Whether you have a green thumb or are a just a budding plant parent, this event is for you. Support students in the DMPS Central Campus horticulture program by buying a plant for your home or garden. Find perennials, annuals, hanging baskets, veggies, herbs, houseplants and more, all grown by students.
- When: Friday, April 26, 8:30 a.m.-8:55 p.m. and Saturday, April 27, 8:10 a.m.-5:20 p.m.
- Where: Drake Stadium, 2719 Forest Ave., Des Moines
- Price: $25-$30
Have a blast at the Blue Oval watching athletes of all skill levels make their mark. Known as "America's Athletic Classic", the Drake Relays are home to some memorable performances by renowned track and field athletes. Beyond just the relays themselves, spectators can watch events including pole vault, high jump and javelin.
- When: Friday, April 26 at 7 p.m., Saturday, April 27 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, April 28 at 2 p.m.
- Where: Hoyt Sherman Place, 1501 Woodland Ave., Des Moines
- Price: Tickets start at $34
Spend a night at the ballet watching this production of a classic Shakespearean comedy. Set to music by Felix Mendelssohn, the show will feature a cast of professional and youth dancers from around the Des Moines metro.
- When: Saturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28
- Where: Bookstores across central Iowa
- Price: Free to attend
Central Iowa is home to numerous independent bookstores, and there's no better day than Independent Bookstore Day to check them out! Stop at each participating indie bookseller over two days to fill out your "passport". If you visit all eight participating stores, you can be entered in a drawing to win an $100 gift card. In addition, check out fun deals and promotions at each participating bookstore.
- When: Sunday, April 28, 3-6 p.m.
- Where: Evelyn K. Davis Park, 1400 Forest Ave., Des Moines
- Price: Free
May 1, or May Day, is International Workers' Day. Join members of Des Moines Black Liberation Movement and Central Iowa DSA for a potluck celebrating the day and the future of workers' rights in Iowa.