5 Can’t-Miss Things in Downtown DSM: March 6-12

March is officially in its “spring is around the corner” era, and Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is more than ready. This week brings big laughs, bold flavors, live music with a mission and even a little friendly competition to get you out and about!

Whether you’re into outdoor traditions brought indoors, sipping your way through a culinary showcase, cheering on Midwest talent or testing your puzzle prowess with a craft beer in hand, there’s no shortage of ways to shake up your routine. From high-energy festivals to laid-back nights that turn surprisingly competitive, March 6-12 is stacked with reasons to make plans. Keep reading for five can’t-miss events happening right in the heart of Downtown DSM.

Felipe Esparza: At My Leisure World Tour

Friday, March 6, 2026 | Hoyt Sherman Place
If your week needs a hard reset in the form of uncontrollable laughter, Felipe Esparza has you covered. The “Last Comic Standing” winner brings his At My Leisure World Tour to Downtown DSM with the kind of storytelling that feels wildly relatable and slightly unhinged in the best way. With multiple stand-up specials, a longtime hit podcast and plenty of TV appearances under his belt, Felipe knows exactly how to work a room. Expect sharp observations, honest humor and a night that’ll leave your cheeks sore from laughing. Consider this your official permission to treat yourself.
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Wine, Food & Beer Showcase

Friday, March 6, 2026 | Des Moines Marriott Downtown
Come hungry and maybe wear stretchy pants. The Wine, Food & Beer Showcase is basically a tasting tour of Iowa’s best restaurants, breweries, wineries and distilleries, all under one roof. From 6-9 p.m., you can sample bites and sips from 40 different culinary creators while supporting Des Moines Metro Opera’s music education programs. It’s indulgent in the best way, with an optional Reserve Experience upgrade if you’re feeling fancy and want access to rare wines and elevated pairings. Think date night meets foodie heaven meets feel-good fundraiser. It’s a win-win-win kind of evening.
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Iowa Deer Classic

Friday, March 6 – Sunday, March 8, 2026 | Iowa Events Center
If you’ve got antlers in the garage or just a deep appreciation for the great outdoors, the Iowa Deer Classic is your weekend. This three-level takeover of the Iowa Events Center is packed with hunting gear, apparel, blinds, tree stands and enough camo to last a lifetime. Bring your trophy for official measurement, sit in on expert seminars downstairs and browse exhibits on the upper floors. It’s part expo, part tradition, part reunion for outdoor enthusiasts across the Midwest. Bonus perks include discounted days, a three-day wristband option and automatic entry into door prize drawings when you buy tickets online. Let the buck stories begin.
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Femme Fest 515

Saturday, March 7, 2026 | Locals Bar & Stage
Turn it up for Women’s History Month at Femme Fest 515. This high-energy night at Locals Bar & Stage brings together femme-fronted and femme-inclusive bands from across the Midwest for a celebration of talent, solidarity and seriously good music. Expect everything from ska punk and pop punk to hardcore and folk punk, loud, proud and unapologetically fun. Doors open at 5 p.m., music kicks off at 5:30 p.m. and the $10 cover gets you a full night of discovering new favorites. It’s gritty, joyful and community-driven in all the best ways. Grab your crew and get ready to dance.
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Puzzlepalooza Classic Jigsaw Puzzle Competition

Thursday, March 12, 2026 | SingleSpeed Brewing
Competitive puzzling? Oh yes, it’s a thing, and it’s intense. Puzzlepalooza is where teams of up to four race to complete a 500-piece puzzle faster than everyone else. Sounds wholesome, right? Plot twist: there’s a sabotage element. That’s right. Strategic chaos is encouraged. Check-in starts at 6 p.m., competition kicks off at 6:30 p.m. and your $50 team registration includes the puzzle to take home. Add SingleSpeed’s solid food and drink lineup, and you’ve got a Thursday night that’s equal parts brainpower and banter. Reserve your spot early. These tables fill fast.
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Ready to trade gray skies for something brighter? March in Downtown DSM is packed with free ways to get out, gather and shake up your routine.

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