5 Free Things to Do in Downtown DSM in February

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is a great place to be year-round — and it’s affordable, too! This month, take a look at these five totally free events and things to do in Downtown DSM taking place during February.

Celebrate Groundhog Day

Monday, Feb. 2, 2026 | High Life Lounge
The High Life Lounge’s Groundhogs Day celebration might be one of Downtown DSM’s best kept secrets. Join in the festivities and watch whether Polk County Paula sees their shadow this year to predict an early spring or a few more weeks of winter. (Don’t recognize the local lingo? Polk County Paula is a person dressed up in a groundhog costume!) Doors open at 6 a.m. on Groundhog Day — Sunday, Feb. 2, 2026 — and free beer is served, while supplies last.
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George Washington Carver Day Celebration

Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026 | World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
Spend the day celebrating one of the most influential scientists and educators in American history at this free, family‑friendly event honoring Dr. George Washington Carver. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Hall of Laureates will host guided tours, storytime in the Iowa Gallery, artist talks, engaging conversations and hands‑on learning experiences inspired by Carver’s curiosity and creativity. It’s thoughtful, educational and welcoming for all ages, whether you’re brushing up on history or discovering Carver’s legacy for the first time. Come ready to learn, reflect and leave inspired.
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February First Friday: Embodied

Friday, Feb. 6, 2026 | Mainframe Studios
February’s First Friday at Mainframe Studios invites you to slow down and really feel the art. Embodied, curated by Iowa artist Lydia Nong, explores the human figure as a storytelling tool — using posture, gesture and form to communicate emotion and lived experience. Wander through open studios, take in this powerful multimedia exhibition and connect with artists who use the body as their language. As always, First Friday means open studios, conversation, creativity and a buzzing atmosphere throughout the building. It’s free, thought‑provoking and a perfect excuse to get out on a winter night. 
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Kids Day of Science 

Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026 | Big Grove Brewery
Big Grove is trading hops for hypotheses during this kid‑friendly afternoon of hands‑on learning. From 1-3 p.m., the brewery transforms into a mini science lab with interactive sound experiments led by the Science Center of Iowa and LEGO coding activities from STEAMSTARZ. It’s designed for curious kids ages 4-12, but adults will appreciate the setup too. While the kids tinker and explore, parents can relax with a craft beer in hand. Lab coats are optional and curiosity is encouraged. It’s free, fun and proof that learning and a laid‑back Sunday can absolutely coexist.
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You might also be interested in free scavenger hunts at Downtown DSM’s Central Library in honor of Black History Month. All month long, bring the fam to search for hidden pictures — find them all and win a prize! Bonus: You’ll take away interesting tidbits about Black inventors and Black authors, too! Free parking is available in the library’s underground parking garage.

Coldest Night of the Year

Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026 | Water Works Park
Bundle up and show up for a cause at this meaningful, family‑friendly winter walk supporting people experiencing hurt, hunger and homelessness. Coldest Night of the Year brings the community together for a 5K walk at Water Works Park, raising funds and awareness for Central Iowa Shelter and Services. Registration is free, and participants who fundraise can earn event swag. Stick around afterward for a free meal from Mulberry Farm & Food, plus beer or wine available from the Des Moines Biergarten. It’s a powerful reminder of why community matters, and a great way to turn a cold night into something impactful.
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Plan your visit to Downtown Des Moines (DSM) with these tips for parking and navigation and follow @downtownDSMUSA on Instagram for more epic, things-you-just-can’t-miss happening around Downtown.