5 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Downtown DSM This Week: Aug. 15-21

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is keeping the energy high this week with events that will have you rolling, reading, shopping, sipping and dancing your way through August. Whether you’re cruising under the stars at a funky skate jam, curling up with coffee and a good book or scoring vintage finds for $20 or less, there’s something for every mood and moment. You’ll also find live music that sets the perfect weekend tone and a global pop-up market bringing culture, color and style straight to your doorstep. So grab your calendar, gather your crew and make the most of these long summer days, because Downtown DSM is serving up one unforgettable week, Aug. 15-21.

Velvet Trio

Friday, Aug. 15, 2025 | Annie’s Irish Pub
Kick off your weekend with smooth tunes and a patio view at Annie’s Irish Pub, where Velvet Trio takes the stage from 8-11 p.m. This local favorite is breaking out some fresh summer songs alongside their crowd-pleasing classics and you’ll definitely want a front-row table. Order your favorite drink, grab some friends and settle in at 3rd & Court for a laid-back Friday night that’s all about good vibes, live music and that late-summer air.
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Roll-Out! A Funk House Skate Jam

Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025 | Brenton Skating Plaza
It’s time to lace up and Roll-Out! Downtown DSM is taking over Brenton Skating Plaza for another night of nonstop groove. This isn’t just skating—it’s a full-blown funk-fueled block party on wheels. From 6-10 p.m., DJs Laird, Kelix, Cdisiac and Richie Daggers will keep the beats rolling while Sabba Circle Fire Dancing and the Breakdancerz light up the night (literally). Expect breakdancing battles, fire performances, pop-up art and the kind of summer sunset views that make you forget winter even exists. Skates of all kinds are welcome — just bring $10 suggested donation and your best moves. Ages 14+ only, so leave the littles at home and come ready to roll, dance and vibe under the open sky.
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You might also want to swing by Back 2 School Night at Evelyn K. Davis Park on Sunday, Aug. 17 from 2–5 p.m. — just outside Downtown DSM.

Books & Brew

Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025 | Vibrant Coffeehouse
If your perfect Sunday involves a good book and a great cup of coffee, Books & Brew is calling your name. Cozy up at Vibrant Coffeehouse from 1-4 p.m. for a relaxed afternoon of reading, quiet music and your favorite iced or hot drink. Make your own custom bookmark at the free creation station, then take a chance on the “Blind Date with a Book” display. You never know what new favorite might be hiding behind the wrapping. This event is free, but seating is first-come, first-served, so plan to arrive early (especially if you’re bringing friends). It’s the perfect slow-down moment before the week kicks back into high gear.
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Global Threads Pop-Up Market

Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025 | Mainframe Studios
Pack your curiosity (and maybe your wallet) for the Global Threads Pop-Up Market at Mainframe Studios. Inside Room 108, you’ll find a vibrant mix of local entrepreneurs sharing fashion, accessories and style inspiration from cultures around the globe. Chat with each vendor to learn the story behind the pieces, get styling tips and maybe even pick out something to wear to the upcoming CultureALL Ball. This isn’t your average shopping trip — it’s a hands-on, around-the-world-in-an-afternoon kind of experience, right in the heart of Downtown DSM.
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Club Café & $20 and Under Vintage Market

Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025 | Daisy Chain Coffee
Your Sunday just got a caffeine boost and a style upgrade. From 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., Club Café returns to Daisy Chain Coffee with DJ Nick Nystrom spinning the soundtrack to your latte sipping. But there’s a twist! This time, they’re teaming up with Raygun for a $20 and Under Vintage Market in the back parking lot. Every vendor’s finds are priced $20 or less, making it the perfect place to score back-to-school fits, end-of-summer statement pieces or just a killer bargain. Sip, shop and then pop inside Raygun for even more local goods.
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Wrap up summer with a burst of creativity at Glitter Factory DSM’s End of Summer Art & Craft Night on Friday, Aug. 15, 2025.

Good times don’t have to cost a dime. Downtown DSM’s August lineup of totally free events keep the good vibes flowing.

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.