5 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Downtown DSM: May 15-21

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is keeping the momentum going this May with a week full of events that range from high-energy nights out to feel-good community celebrations. You can catch a classic story brought to life on stage, spend an evening cheering on local talent or fill your night with live music from some seriously iconic bands. There are also opportunities to gather with the community, support meaningful causes and enjoy a few events that are guaranteed to make you smile. From a full weekend of plans to a single night out, here are five can’t-miss events happening in Downtown DSM May 15-21.

Pride Idol

Thursday, May 14, 21 & 28, 2026 | The Garden
Pride Idol is bringing plenty of energy, talent and community spirit to The Garden this month. Hosted by Capital City Pride, the competition brings together local vocalists for nights full of music, encouragement and support from the crowd. It’s the kind of event where the audience energy matters just as much as what’s happening on stage, with people showing up to cheer each other on and celebrate local talent. Plus, the event helps support Pride programming throughout the year, making it an easy way to have a good time while giving back to the community at the same time.
LEARN MORE

 

Looking for even more live music? Check out Birdchild at Jasper Winery’s Summer Concert Series on Thursday, May 21, 2026, just outside Downtown DSM.

Ballet Des Moines Presents Cinderella

Saturday, May 16 – Sunday, May 17, 2026 | Des Moines Civic Center
This is shaping up to be one of those “get tickets now” kind of weekends. Ballet Des Moines returns to the Des Moines Civic Center with a world premiere production of Cinderella, bringing together Ballet Des Moines and the Des Moines Symphony for the first time ever. Between the live orchestra, Sergei Prokofiev’s iconic score and all the classic fairytale drama, it’s the kind of performance that feels big, beautiful and easy to get swept up in. Whether you’re a longtime ballet fan or just looking for a memorable night Downtown, this one definitely fits the moment.
LEARN MORE

Girls on the Run 5k

Sunday, May 17, 2026 | Principal Park
There’s something genuinely uplifting about the Girls on the Run 5K in Downtown DSM. Participants spend the season building confidence, connection and strength, and race day is the big celebration of all that hard work. Even if you’re not running, it’s worth stopping by to cheer on the girls as they cross the finish line at Principal Park. There are pre-race festivities, lots of energy and a crowd that’s fully there to celebrate every participant. The whole event has an uplifting, feel-good energy from start to finish.
LEARN MORE

 

ARL Dog Days of Summer

Tuesday, May 19, 2026 | Principal Park
Honestly, dogs at a baseball game is already enough to make this event a win. ARL Dog Days of Summer brings pups and their people to Principal Park for an evening of baseball, community and maximum golden retriever energy. Before the game, there’s even a dog parade on the field, which might honestly steal the show. You’ll also find dog ice cream, raffle opportunities and plenty of four-legged fans decked out in Cubs gear. Whether you’re bringing your own pup or just showing up to admire everyone else’s, it’s one of the more wholesome nights you’ll find Downtown this week.
LEARN MORE

 

Styx with Special Guest Cheap Trick

Thursday, May 21, 2026 | Lauridsen Amphitheater
If classic rock is your thing, this is a pretty hard lineup to beat. Styx and Cheap Trick are bringing decades worth of arena-rock hits to Lauridsen Amphitheater for one big night of singalong-worthy music. Between “Come Sail Away,” “Renegade,” “I Want You to Want Me” and “Surrender,” there’s a very good chance you’ll know more lyrics than you expect. It’s loud, nostalgic and exactly the kind of outdoor concert night that feels made for May.
LEARN MORE

 

Downtown DSM is making the most of May with a handful of free ways to get out, wander around and enjoy the city.

Keep up with the momentum that's happening in and around Greater Des Moines (DSM) when you subscribe to one or all of the Greater Des Moines Partnership's newsletters — they're packed with the latest news, highlighting everything from upcoming events to development projects to policy updates. Join the mailing list to connect with The Partnership and help amplify stories from around the region.