St. Patrick’s Day Fun in Des Moines for Kids

St. Patrick’s Day is a fun holiday to celebrate for all ages. While many of us may think of green beer and large parties, there are many ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day as a whole family in Des Moines. We are sharing some of our favorite ways to celebrate!

Take a look at some other fun roundup ideas for St. Patrick’s Day fun:

Read Move & Groove Pete the Cat – The Great Leprechaun Chase

Thursday, March 5 at 11:15 a.m.

The Little Gym Johnston

Join us for a magical storytime, open gym, and craft featuring Pete the Cat: The Great Leprechaun Chase.
Members are free; drop-in attendees are $10. Ages 5 and under. Spots may fill fast! Register here.

Des Moines St. Paddy’s Day Marathon & Half Marathon

Saturday, March 14

Downtown Des Moines

Grab the family and challenge each other to a fun run! This race also offers a ‘Kids Dash Start’ and a 5 K. Perfect to get the entire family involved in some outdoor, green St. Patty’s Day fitness fun! Register today.

Leprechaun Trap Quest

Saturday, March 14 at 10 a.m.

Valley Junction Community Center

Engineer a leprechaun trap to take home. While exploring trap design, you will learn about the engineering design process, blending science, engineering, creativity, and a bit of Irish charm to create the perfect trap for catching a leprechaun! *Cost of registration includes one student and one adult. Register here.

Leprechaun Loop & Wag

Saturday, March 14 at 10 a.m.

Gray’s Lake Park

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with your furry friend at the Leprechaun Loop & Wag! Enjoy a refreshing walk around beautiful Gray’s Lake while soaking in the festive spirit of the season. It’s a perfect way to get some fresh air, meet fellow dog lovers, and have a blast with your pup.

St. Patrick’s Day Family Glow Bowling

Sunday, March 16 at Noon

Warrior Lanes

Join Warrior Lanes for a Family-Friendly Bowling Party. These parties are a blast and feature Glow-In-The-Dark Bowling, Mom-Approved Music, Food, Fun, (alcohol-free), and of course…..Family! You must pre-register for this event.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Monday, March 17 at Noon

Downtown Des Moines

This annual event is sponsored by the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. Dress in all your green gear and festive wear and celebrate! The parade begins at Noon and there is a NEW parade route this year. Learn more about the parade and parade route by visiting their website.

St. Patrick’s Day Jump

Tuesday, March 17 at 3:30 p.m.

Pump it Up in Urbandale

Join Pump it Up for a leaping good time! Glow play, hidden prizes, and fun, yummy St. Paddy’s Day themed popcorn after the event. There may be a leprechaun sighting if you keep your eyes peeled! Reserve your child’s spot today! Only $15 per child (includes a glow necklace), waiver, and socks required. Click here to reserve your spot.

St. Patty’s Day Paw-ty

Tuesday, March 17 at 4 p.m.

Paws & Pints

Saint Patty’s Day Paw-ty at Paws & Pints. All pups wearing green will receive a free day pass to the dog park!

What’s in store:

  • Festive photo booth
  • Giveaways
  • Green beer for humans
  • Fun activities & games
  • All the Saint Patty’s Day vibes!

Grab your pup, wear something green, and head to the park for a paw-some celebration.

Leprechaun Ninja Challenge

Wednesday, March 18 at 1:30 p.m.

Triad Kids Campus

Obstacle-style challenge and active play for ages 3 & up. $20 per child. Click here to register.