5 Can’t-Miss Downtown DSM Events This Week: Aug. 29 – Sept. 4

Labor Day weekend is here, and Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is closing out summer in style! From art nights and patio concerts to the Downtown Farmers’ Market and a symphony under the stars, the city is buzzing with energy. Add in a special baseball showdown and plenty of long-weekend patio hangs and you’ve got the recipe for an unforgettable holiday. Whether you’re looking to celebrate with live music, get creative or simply soak up the end-of-summer vibes, Downtown DSM has you covered. Here are five can’t-miss events happening Aug. 29 – Sept. 4 to make the most of your Labor Day weekend.

Labor Day Weekend Patio Fest

Friday, Aug. 29 – Monday, Sept. 1, 2025 | Confluence Brewing Company
Kick back on the Confluence Brewing patio for four full days of live music and good beer at the Labor Day Weekend Patio Fest! With no tickets required and no cover charge, you can just roll up, grab a drink and enjoy the music. Friday brings Nathan Thiessen and 5 Below, Saturday features Chip Albright, Trio Aceto and The Sheet, Sunday packs in Seth Jamison and Dhejemke, then Monday rounds things out with Ryne Doughty and Missouri Mule. Food trucks like Peggy O’s and Los Compadres Flaming Tacos will keep you fueled all weekend long.
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Downtown Farmers’ Market

Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025 | Historic Court District
If it’s Saturday morning, you know where to be — the Downtown Farmers’ Market! Celebrating its 50th season, The Market is a summer staple that brings thousands of people together in the Historic Court District. Browse stands overflowing with fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, handmade art and ready-to-eat bites. Grab a breakfast burrito, sip some locally roasted coffee or tea and enjoy live music as you stroll Court Avenue. The Market runs every Saturday through October, rain or shine, from 7 a.m. to Noon (8 a.m. start time in October). Pro tip: Arrive early for the best selection.
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MLB Home Run Derby X

Sunday, Aug. 30, 2025 | Principal Park
Baseball meets big-time entertainment at MLB Home Run Derby X, and this year it’s hitting Principal Park! This isn’t your average ballgame — it’s a fast-paced 3-on-3 showdown featuring MLB legends like Ben Zobrist, Jake Arrieta, Manny Ramirez and Nick Swisher. Expect monster home runs, jaw-dropping catches and bonus points for hitting special targets on the field. With each game lasting just 30 minutes, the action is nonstop and the energy in the stands is electric. Add in music, fan interaction and the chance to see some of your favorite players in a totally new way!
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Water Works Pops with the Des Moines Symphony

Saturday, Aug. 30 – Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025 | Water Works Park
Pack your picnic basket and get ready for not one, but two nights of music under the stars with the Des Moines Symphony’s Water Works Pops. On Saturday, it’s an all-out ’80s party with hits like The Power of Love, Material Girl, Footloose and Another One Bites the Dust — plus classics from Madonna, Billy Joel, Queen, Phil Collins and more. Then, keep the throwback going Sunday with a disco dance fest featuring the ultimate queens of the ’70s — Donna Summer, Gloria Gaynor, Chaka Khan, Diana Ross — and funky favorites from Earth, Wind & Fire and the Bee Gees. Both nights are free and family-friendly, complete with a Dressed to the Decades Costume Contest. So, bring your blanket, grab your crew and make it a back-to-back throwback weekend in Downtown DSM.
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Don’t miss Sista Soul Fest, a day of music, food and fun at Evelyn K. Davis Park, just outside Downtown DSM, taking place on Sunday, Aug. 31 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Art Night with Art is Rad

Monday, Sept. 1, 2025 | Big Grove Brewery
Get crafty with Art is Rad during Big Grove Brewery’s Weekly Art Night! Every Monday brings a new project, so you can experiment with something fresh each week — whether you’re an experienced artist or just looking for a fun night out. Tickets are just $10 (going straight to support the Art is Rad nonprofit) and participants get $1 off any DSM-brewed beer. Space is limited to 40 artists, so come early, grab a pint and settle in for some creative vibes. No reservations needed — just show up ready to make something cool.
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Downtown DSM’s September roundup of free events is here — packed with big fun, zero cost.

For this week’s events and more, find tips on Downtown Des Moines (DSM) parking and navigation. For additional events and seasonal festivities coming up in Downtown DSM, visit the events calendar. Plus, follow @downtownDSMUSA on Instagram for even more things-you-just-can’t-miss happening around Downtown.