5 Events That Make Downtown DSM the Place to Be This Week

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is closing out summer with a week packed full of energy, flavor and community fun. Picture a night of global dancing and food, a fairytale escape for the little ones, a funky skate jam under the lights, a neighborhood block party buzzing with music and games and a full-on Oktoberfest celebration with beer steins and Bavarian vibes. Whether you’re looking to dress up, dance it out or simply kick back with great food and live entertainment, this week’s events bring something special to the city. Here are five can’t-miss ways to spend your time in Downtown DSM, Sept. 19-25.

Oktoberfest at Des Moines Biergarten

Friday, Sept. 19 – Sunday, Sept 21, 2025 | Water Works Park
Raise a stein and welcome fall at the three-day Oktoberfest celebration at Des Moines Biergarten. Expect all the classic Bavarian vibes: stein-holding contests, pretzel tosses, burlap sack races, German-inspired food and live polka mixed with plenty of local music. There’s even a Kinder Zone for kids, so bring the whole family. Friday kicks off with the Golden Keg ceremony (plus the famous bicycle ride from the Capitol), and the weekend rolls on with nonstop entertainment, food vendors and, of course, plenty of beer. Free admission, family-friendly fun and all the Oktoberfest spirit. Prost, DSM!
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CultureALL Ball

Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025 | Hilton Des Moines Downtown
Get ready to dance your way around the globe at the CultureALL Ball! This vibrant evening kicks off with a global bazaar packed with street performances, live art and international flavors before the main event. A high-energy dance party featuring moves from every continent. Jump in on real-time dance lessons, catch a whirlwind fashion-with-rhythm showcase and sample dishes curated by local chefs. Hosted by CultureALL, a nonprofit dedicated to sharing the richness of Iowa’s cultural diversity, the Ball is all about celebrating community and connection. Come dressed to move, stay for the music and flavors and leave with a whole new appreciation for the cultures that make DSM shine.
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Roll-Out! A Funk House Skate Jam

Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025 | Brenton Skating Plaza
End the skate season in style at the Roll-Out! Funk House Skate Jam finale at Brenton Skating Plaza. This is no ordinary night at the rink — it’s a full-on celebration with live DJs, breakdancers, fire performers, live bands and art installations that turn the plaza into an outdoor party like no other. Bring your roller skates or in-lines (ages 14+ only) and get ready to groove under the stars with tunes from Kelix, Laird, Cdisiac, Richie Daggers, plus a live set from Steve Tyler & Friends. With sunset vibes by the water and nonstop energy on the floor, this sendoff party is the ultimate summer mic drop.
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Photo courtesy of Des Moines Parks and Recreation.

Downtown End of Summer Block Party

Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025 | The Hub Spot
Say goodbye to summer at the Downtown End of Summer Block Party at The Hub Spot! Once the Downtown Farmers’ Market wraps up for the day, the celebration kicks into gear with food trucks, cold drinks, live music, games and plenty of ways to mingle. Whether you’re catching up with neighbors, Downtown DSM regulars or first-timers just checking out the scene, this block party is all about community. Bring your friends, grab a bite and soak up the Downtown DSM energy one more time before fall officially takes over. It’s a Saturday afternoon hangout you won’t want to miss.
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Step back in time during the 27th Annual River Bend Historic Homes Tour, happening just outside Downtown DSM this Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 20-21.

Des Moines Fairytale Ball

Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025 | The Tea Room
The Des Moines Fairytale Ball is every child’s dream come true. Happening at The Tea Room, this magical experience brings beloved princesses to life through stories, songs, crafts and singalongs. Each 90-minute session includes enchanting performances and an individual meet-and-greet with every character — perfect for photos, hugs and autographs. With capped attendance for each time slot, every little one gets their moment to shine. Kids are encouraged to dress up in their royal best, so get the tiaras and sparkly shoes ready. From crafts to singalongs, it’s a happily-ever-after afternoon that you and your kids will remember long after the ball ends.
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September is shaping up to be unforgettable in Downtown DSM, thanks to a lineup of free events that promise plenty of fun.

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.