What to Do in Downtown DSM This Week: Sept. 4-10

September is starting on a high note in Downtown Des Moines (DSM), with a long weekend and a new lineup of events to add to your plans this week. Catch a Broadway favorite on stage, spend an evening skating beneath the city skyline or settle in for live music ranging from local bands to full symphonic performances. There’s even a chance to put your card-playing skills to the test with a little friendly competition. Whether you’re making Labor Day weekend plans or looking for something to do later in the week, Downtown DSM has lots going on. Here are five can’t-miss things to do Friday, Sept. 4 – Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026.

Wicked

Now - Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026 | Des Moines Civic Center
You know the story of “The Wizard of Oz”, but “Wicked” turns everything you thought you knew about Oz upside down. Long before Dorothy arrives, an unlikely friendship forms between Elphaba, a smart and misunderstood young woman with green skin, and Glinda, the bubbly blonde destined for popularity. What follows is the story behind how one became known as “wicked” and the other as “good.” The Broadway sensation brings its soaring music, imaginative storytelling and larger-than-life production to the Des Moines Civic Center through Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026, giving you plenty of chances to see one of Broadway’s most beloved musicals live on stage.
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Friday Night Skate Dates

Friday, Sept. 4, 2026 | Brenton Skating Plaza
Grab your skates and roll into the weekend at Brenton Skating Plaza. Friday Night Skate Dates takes over the outdoor plaza from 6-9 p.m., with upbeat music, river views and the Downtown DSM skyline as your backdrop. Bring the kids, make it a date night or round up a group of friends and spend the evening cruising around the plaza. Admission is just $5 per person, and all skill levels are welcome to join the fun. Just remember to bring your own roller skates or roller blades, as rentals will not be available during the event.
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Labor Day Weekend PatioFest

Friday, Sept. 4 – Monday, Sept. 7, 2026 | Confluence Brewing Company
Four days, eight live acts and one big beer garden. PatioFest is taking over Confluence Brewing Company for Labor Day weekend! The music starts Friday afternoon and keeps going through Monday, with a lineup featuring The DM Project, Psycho X, David Watson, Steve E George, Trio Aceto, Chris Falcon & the Space Time Continuum, Dogtown Rhythm Band, Casey Joe Collins and The Carousel. Peggy O’s Food Truck will also be onsite Friday and Saturday for when hunger hits between sets. There are no tickets and no cover charge, so grab some friends, find a spot on the patio and stay for one band or make your way back throughout the weekend.
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Euchre Tournament

Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026 | Rook Room Game Lounge
Think you know when to call trump? Put those Euchre skills to work during Rook Room Game Lounge & Cafe’s monthly tournament. Beginning at 11 a.m., teams will face off in round-robin play for a few hours of cards, friendly competition and a prize package for the winners. Don’t have a partner? Come solo and you’ll be paired with another player for the tournament. All ages and experience levels are welcome, and Rook Room provides everything you need to play. Reservations are required and space is limited, with registration costing $5 per person. Come hungry, too! The cafe’s food and drink menu will be available throughout the tournament.
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Des Moines Symphony Summer Pops Concerts

Saturday, Sept. 5 – Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026 | Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park
The Des Moines Symphony is filling Water Works Park with music all weekend, with two free concerts offering completely different experiences. Pick one or make plans for both:

The Symphonic Eagles Experience on Saturday, Sept. 5 at 7:30 p.m.: The Symphony joins forces with 7 Bridges for orchestral takes on Eagles favorites including “Hotel California,” “Desperado” and “Life in the Fast Lane.”
Cinematic Magic Family Festival & Concert on Sunday, Sept. 6 beginning at 4 p.m.: Arrive early for the Children’s Village, local vendors, food trucks and family activities before the 5:30 p.m. concert featuring music from the movies.

From classic rock to cinematic favorites, it’s two nights of music with the Symphony under the open sky.
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Also happening at Water Works Park this week, catch Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms and Spin Doctors live in concert on Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026.

September is here, and Downtown DSM is starting the month with plenty of free ways to get out and enjoy the city. From family-friendly activities to live entertainment, there’s plenty to explore without spending a dime.

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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.