5 Summer Events to Check Out in Downtown DSM This Week: July 17-23

July is filled with reasons to spend time in Downtown Des Moines (DSM), and this week is no exception. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing, live music under the trees or one of the city’s favorite Saturday traditions, there’s plenty happening throughout downtown. You can browse local vendors, dive into Des Moines history, enjoy outdoor performances or simply relax with friends over great food and drinks. From longtime favorites to unique seasonal experiences, here are five can’t-miss events happening in Downtown DSM July 17-23.

Woodland Cemetery Historical Tour

Saturday, July 18, 2026 | Woodland Cemetery
If you enjoy discovering the stories behind the places you pass every day, this guided tour is well worth your time. Join local historian Archie Cook for a walk through Woodland Cemetery while learning about the influential people who helped shape Des Moines. Along the way, you’ll hear fascinating stories connected to familiar names like Ingersoll, Hubbell, Fleur and Sherman while exploring one of the city’s most historic landmarks. The tour covers about a mile over 2½ hours. If you can’t make this month’s tour, additional tours are scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 8, Sept. 12 and Oct. 10, 2026.
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Des Moines’ Downtown Farmers’ Market

Saturday, July 18, 2026 | Historic Court District
Saturday mornings and the Downtown Farmers’ Market go hand in hand. This longtime Downtown DSM tradition continues to bring thousands of visitors to the Historic Court District each week. Browse colorful produce stands, fresh flowers, handmade goods and locally prepared foods while enjoying live music throughout the market. It’s also a great excuse to grab breakfast from one of the many vendors before spending the rest of the morning exploring downtown. Pro tip: Arrive early for the best selection and a little extra room to wander.
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Wild on Wheels Summer Block Party

Thursday, July 23, 2026 | Science Center of Iowa
The Iowa Wild are bringing the fun downtown as Wild on Wheels kicks off its 2026 tour at the Science Center of Iowa. Families can enjoy street hockey, hands-on activities, appearances from Crash and plenty of opportunities to celebrate hockey during this free summer block party. Adults who attend will also receive one free ticket to a 2026-27 Iowa Wild home game, and attendees can enter to win a year-long Science Center of Iowa Family or Grandparent Membership. Whether you’re a longtime hockey fan or simply looking for a fun evening with the kids, this event is an easy addition to your summer plans.
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Music in the Garden at Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

Downtown DSM Music Round-up

Various Dates & Locations in Downtown DSM
If your summer calendar could use a little more live music, Downtown DSM has you covered. From riverside concerts and botanical garden performances to neighborhood music series, there are plenty of opportunities to catch local musicians throughout the week.

Friday Summer Concert Series — Friday, July 17, 2026 | Confluence Brewing Company
Music in the Garden — Wednesday, July 22, 2026 | Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Vibes in the Village — Thursday, July 23, 2026 | Simon Estes Amphitheater
Gray’s Station Summer Concert Series — Thursday, July 23, 2026 | Gray’s Station
Jasper Winery Summer Concert Series — Thursday, July 23, 2026 | Jasper Winery (just outside of Downtown DSM)

Whether you’re looking for a casual weeknight outing or planning a full evening around live music, there’s no shortage of places to catch a great performance this week.

Des Moines Biergarten

Open Wednesday – Sunday through Late Fall | Water Works Park
Looking for a relaxing way to spend a summer afternoon or evening? Head to the Des Moines Biergarten, where local and German brews, great food and live entertainment come together at Water Works Park. This week’s lineup includes traditional Irish folk music from Mabel’s Porch on Friday, family-friendly games during Spielgarten on Saturday and Local Bands, Brews & Bikes featuring Fabulous Tru Tones on Sunday afternoon. Stop by after work or make an afternoon of it with friends at one of Downtown DSM’s most laid-back summer settings.
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Whether you’re looking to spend time outdoors, discover something new or simply enjoy a summer evening, Downtown DSM offers plenty of free ways to make the most of July.

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Greater Des Moines Partnership

The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the largest regional business, economic development and talent development organization in Iowa and the second-largest regional chamber of commerce in the country, serving multiple counties in Greater Des Moines. Together with more than 400 Investors and an Affiliate Chamber of Commerce network of more than 7,200 Regional Chamber Members, The Partnership helps businesses grow and advances quality of life in Greater Des Moines with one voice, one mission and as one region, contributing to a vibrant regional economy.