Iowa really loves its basketball. And whether you’re a committed college basketball fan, a lover of good old-fashioned sports betting or just a local looking to get into the spirit of the sporty season, you’re in luck—because the state is currently buzzing with can’t-miss happy hour deals and fun community events ahead of the year’s big Final Four tournament.
Here’s everything to know about how and where to celebrate the March Madness 2022 season in Iowa this year.
What better way to get in the spirit of college basketball playoff season than with…more basketball? It’s true, Iowans love their sports year-round. And the Iowa High School State Basketball Tournament is set to take place at Wells Fargo Arena through March 12. Visitors can get a front-row glimpse to the state’s upcoming generation of basketball stars—just in time for the vibrant Final Four tournament.
Speaking of beloved Iowa basketball showcases, the Hoops and Hops Downtown Des Moines event takes the cake. The 5th Annual Hoops and Hops celebration will take place from March 17 through March 19, and will allow attendees to celebrate both St. Patrick’s Day and the NCAA Tournament via a large heated tent, live music, beverages from the Iowa Craft Beer Tent and Iowa Spirits Bar, local food trucks and so much more.
The March Madness shopping celebration at Coral Ridge Mall brings together small businesses from all across the state to a centrally-located and inimitably fun vendor market. Whether you’re looking to stock up on specialty sports gear for the state or just peruse through unique small business goodies, you’ll find it all at this shopping showcase.
Nothing says party quite like a karaoke dance party—and the Elvrae Wednesday Dance Party (happening every Wednesday throughout March) is the perfect place to get your groove on and celebrate all the excitement that March Madness brings.
Diamond Jo Event Center’s March Hoopla spectacular will offer the most exciting three days of college basketball from March 17 through March 19! With four 13-ft. HD screens and four 70-in. HD TV’s to watch all the action at one time, attendees to this Northwood March Madness event will get to enjoy a Vegas-style Final Four event, all within the heart of Iowa. Plus, the March Hoopla will also feature exclusive game day food and beverage specials.
While Iowa has no shortage of March Madness-friendly food and beverage deals, there are a few that standout above the rest. On March 18, from noon to 12 p.m., Cedar Rapids’ Thew Brewing Company is set to mark the March Madness celebrations with can’t-miss deals on everything from shareable dishes to brews and more—all with the big game day in mind.