5 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Downtown DSM: Oct. 31–Nov. 6

Halloween may be winding down, but Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is still buzzing with bold costumes, fall fun and community celebrations that are anything but average. From spooky bar crawls and charity costume bashes to cultural festivals, game nights and hockey hype, there’s so much to get excited about this week. Whether you’re sipping cocktails in your Halloween finest, learning about Día de Muertos traditions, cheering on the Iowa Wild or finally dominating board game night — Downtown DSM is ready to keep the good times rolling. Read on for five can’t-miss events happening Oct. 31 through Nov. 6, and make the most of this in-between week where fall meets festivity.

Halloween Bar Crawl

Friday, Oct. 31 - Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025 | Various Downtown DSM Locations
Ready to haunt the hottest spots in Downtown DSM? The Halloween Bar Crawl is the way to show off your costume, sip creepy cocktails and hit the town with your boo crew. It’s a two-day celebration with no cover, drink specials, pro photographers and a killer after party both nights. Plus, you’ll get a party cup, lanyard, drink vouchers and access to an exclusive crawl map. Whether you’re going full horror movie mode or keeping it silly and sparkly, every stop brings new vibes and new surprises. Check in starts at 4 p.m. and the party doesn’t stop ‘til late. Costumes highly encouraged! (And so is dancing like a zombie.)
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And just outside Downtown DSM, keep the spooky fun going with Spirits of the Wild at Blank Park Zoo, Nightmare on Ingersoll and Sleepy Hollow’s Haunted Scream Park.

The Recon Ripper: A Halloween Bash

Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025 | West End Architectural Salvage
Looking for a Halloween party with serious flair and a good cause? The Recon Ripper Bash is back for its third spooky year and at a new location, West End Salvage. It’s going to be a scream. Think live music, food trucks, costume contests, tarot card readings and a cash bar — all inside one of Downtown DSM’s most unique venues. Bonus? Every dollar supports Variety – the Children’s Charity, which helps kids who are critically ill or living with special needs. Tickets range from $50 general admission to $125 VIP (with early bird deals), and costumes are mandatory. Grab your creepiest crew and party for a purpose.
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Iowa Wild Hockey

Saturday, Nov. 1 – Sunday, Nov. 2 & Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025 | Casey's Center
Iowa Wild is serving up not one, not two, but three chances to catch the action on home ice this week! It all kicks off Saturday with Hockeyween, featuring a trick-or-treat bag giveaway and 2-for-1 Confluence beers (before puck drop!). On Sunday, it’s Pucks ’N Paws — a tail-wagging good time where you can bring your pup and join the post-game community skate. Fans can even purchase a special ticket package that includes access for one person and one dog in a designated dog-friendly area, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL). Then on Thursday, don’t miss Wild About Education, with fun giveaways for local students. Whether you’re into hockey, Halloween or just hanging with your dog, there’s a seat (and a theme night) for everyone.
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Celebración del Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead Celebration)

Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025 | Central Library
Honor tradition, culture and community at this beautiful Day of the Dead celebration hosted at the Central Library. This free family-friendly event highlights Día de Muertos customs with tamales, pan de muerto, hot chocolate, dance performances, ofrendas and a screening of Disney’s Coco. Don’t miss the Luchador Storytime for kids or the community resource fair (Bonus: free flu shots). The event is presented in collaboration with Latinx Immigrants of Iowa and it’s a heartfelt, educational way to experience one of Mexico’s most meaningful traditions — right in the heart of Downtown DSM.
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Cocktails & Cardboard

Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025 | The New Northwestern
Whether you’re a board game nerd or just want to try something new, Cocktails & Cardboard at The New Northwestern is your Thursday night go-to. Hosted by The Dealt Hand, this chill event makes it super easy to dive into a new game, learn the rules and get competitive over cocktails. Perfect for date night, friend groups or solo players who want to join in. The vibe is relaxed, the game collection is huge and yes — they’ll teach you how to play so you don’t sit there fake-reading the rulebook. Happens every Thursday, but this week is the perfect excuse to unwind.
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Are you ready? Downtown DSM has a full lineup of free events that'll make this November unforgettable.

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.