Feeling athletic and nimble despite the crisp temps? This weekend's Des Moines Winter Games is the perfect opportunity to zip down a hill in a cardboard sled, take an icy plunge or simply watch others brave the winter weather.
Winter games events will be held at spots across the city, with registration fees ranging from a canned food donation (Polar Plunge) to $20 (Mullet's Fun Run).
Here are five of the many events to take part in (or just cheer along competitors from the sidelines):
1. Kickoff Party/Polar Plunge
When: 5 p.m. Friday, Sleepy Hollow Sports Park, 4051 Dean Ave.
Cross this off your Des Moines bucket list. Wear your costumes and take the plunge into the icy waters. But first, enjoy entertainment, drinks and food at the pre-plunge kickoff party. After jumping in the water sometime between 6 and 6:30 p.m., heat up in the warming tent. Registration requires non-perishable food items.
2. Mullet Fun Run
When: Registration at 8 a.m. Sunday, race at 9 a.m. Mullet's, 1301 S.E. First St.
New this year is a three-mile fun run from Mullet's to Gray's Lake and back. Dress in your best mullet costume, since there will be prizes. Entry fee is $20 per person.
3. Cardboard sled races
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Sleepy Hollow
Construct a sled out of only three materials: duct tape, cardboard and paint. Then go head to head against other homemade sleds on the slopes. Contestants are judged on speed and style, as well as overall craftsmanship. Registration is $15.
4. Kids activities
When: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Brenton Skating Plaza, 520 Robert D. Ray Drive
For those with children 12 and younger, head to Brenton Skating Plaza for snow art, carnival-like events (an obstacle course and dance party), plus an open skate, skating exhibition, and an ice-cream eating contest. All participants get a prize.
5. Downhill kayaking
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Sleepy Hollow
Watch (or join in) as kayakers zip down the slopes, trying to a) make it to the bottom, and b) not get hurt. Registration is $15.
