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5 Can’t-Miss Things in Downtown DSM This Week: Leap Day, Mardi Gras & More

Five Things to Do

February 23, 2024

These five can’t-miss things are taking place this week only in Downtown Des Moines (DSM). From Leap Day to Mardi Gras, let the good times roll! Here’s a look at what’s coming up:

‘50s Dad Brunch

Saturday, Feb. 24 | Confluence Brewing Co.
Channel your inner 1950s dad: Enjoy a classic brunch, a “50s Dad” mug and Confluence Brewing Co.’s “'50s Dad” beer. The brunch includes eggs, bacon, sausage, fruit, bottomless pancakes and more. Be there or be square! And be sure to wear your best 1950s dad attire. Note: Tickets must be purchased in advance and will not be available at the door.
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Dad Brunch at Confluence

Bluegrass Matinee at Exile

Saturday, Feb. 24 | Exile Brewing Co.
Check out free bluegrass tunes from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. this Saturday, with Music from Ortonville Circus and Stringfield. This event will take place within Exile’s Beer Hall, so grab a glass of your favorite local Exile brew and enjoy!
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 Bluegrass Matinee at Exile

Des Moines Storytellers Project

Tuesday, Feb. 27 | Hoyt Sherman Place
Curated and hosted by Des Moines Register journalists, experience the magic of captivating live storytelling. You’ll laugh, groan, cheer and maybe even tear up a little as you are immersed in the firsthand narratives as told by your colleagues, friends, neighbors. This month’s featured story theme is all about community. Note: This is your last chance to purchase three-event season packages. After the February event, only individual event tickets will be available.
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Mardi Gras Dinner with NOLA Jazz Band

Thursday, Feb. 29 | Big Grove Brewing Co.
Treat your tastebuds to a six-course culinary experience of New Orleans eats while vibing to DSM’s own NOLA Jazz Band. The meal includes an oyster trio, gumbo accompanied by dirty rice, potato salad and okra, a crawfish boil, mini king cakes and more! If you love Cajun food, you certainly can’t miss this once-a-year event. Let the good times roll!
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Hey! We think you might also be interested in another food and drink event taking place at a venue just outside of Downtown Des Moines (DSM). Check out Sizzle & Sip, an interactive steak and whiskey dinner at Rollins Mansion on Friday, Feb. 23.

Quantum Leap Day

Thursday, Feb. 29 | Up-Down
Celebrate the rarity of an extra day this month! You can claim one of Up-Down's 160 complimentary birthday tokens reserved exclusively for people born on this special day. Additionally, be among the first 100 guests through the door to receive 29 free tokens, ensuring a memorable night to mark this extraordinary occasion. Entry to Up-Down for this event is available for individuals aged 21+.
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Quantum Leap Day at Up-Down

Looking for more? Here’s a list of five free things to do in Downtown Des Moines in February.

For these upcoming events and more, find tips on Downtown Des Moines (DSM) parking and navigation. For additional upcoming events, visit the Downtown DSM events calendar. Plus, follow @downtownDSMUSA on Instagram for more epic, things-you-just-can’t-miss happening around Downtown.

Greater Des Moines Partnership

DSM USA is the regional identifier for Greater Des Moines (DSM). DSM USA is a bold statement to the world: This is a welcoming, diverse and vibrant community with affordable and accessible amenities for residents and businesses. This regional identifier is the result of significant quantitative and qualitative research. The Partnership will champion the DSM USA message, and encourages its Investors, its more than 6,500 Regional Business Members and DSM USA Ambassadors to help share the region's story with One Voice.