Music & Entertainment
Local Entertainment
In Downtown Des Moines (DSM), you can dance to the beat of your own drums. With a vibrant live music scene supported by a passionate community, you can find everything from underground hip-hop to classical performances of opera legacy. Local artists, regional stars and music legends have graced the stages of Downtown DSM, and we hope to host them again soon.
Music Festivals
The Winter Blues Festival
The Winter Blues Festival is an annual two-day blues festival that features 20 acts. For more information, visit the Central Iowa Blues Society website.
World Food & Music Festival
The World Food & Music Festival is held annually in September spanning Friday, Saturday and Sunday in Western Gateway featuring cultural musical acts as well as national musical talent, and of course food from around the world!
For more information about other festivals in Downtown DSM that also feature musical artists, visit the Festivals & Markets page.
Concerts & Shows
While festivals such as the World Food & Music Festival offer attendees a musical getaway throughout the festival weekend, there are plenty of other shows around town that keep the music alive year-round. From an outdoor amphitheater in Water Works Park to intimate settings through house concerts or a 76-foot-wide proscenium stage with Des Moines Performing Arts, Downtown DSM offers a variety of venues that bring together both national and local speakers, artists and musical acts to one stage.
Additionally, many local bars and restaurants offer live music and DJ tracks. Learn more about local eateries and nightlife venues.