5 Lively Events Taking Place in Downtown Des Moines This Week

Fall is in full swing, and Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is a lively mix of indoor and outdoor can’t-miss events taking place over the next week. Here’s a look at what’s coming up, now through Thursday, Oct. 12:

First Fridays at Mainframe

Friday, Oct. 6 | Mainframe Studios
Each month, visitors have an opportunity to experience and explore a variety of artful talent, culture and creativity through the arts at Mainframe Studios in Downtown DSM, and this month’s theme is Momentum: Growth and Recovery. Momentum Arts Studio, located at Studio 109, aims to create a supportive community for artists with a disability. During this open studio evening, you’re invited to explore where artists with a disability have free access to equipment and supplies, plus teaching, mentorship, camaraderie and more.
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Capital City Card Con

Friday, Oct. 6 – Sunday, Oct. 8 | Iowa Events Center
If you’re a fan of card collections and sports memorabilia, you won’t want to miss the state’s largest show taking place this weekend in Downtown DSM! You’ll find 220+ tables jam-packed with collectibles and live in-person signing events, too. Ages 16 and under get in for free!
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Worldwide Food Truck Tours

Saturday, Oct. 7 | Court Avenue Bridge
Don’t let this event pass you by! Indulge in a variety of culinary tastes from food trucks representing cuisine from around the world plus live entertainment, cold beer, games and activities, a kids’ zone and lots more! Tickets are available starting at $10. Please note that due to the Food Truck Festival also taking place Saturday morning, the following streets will be closed during The Market: Water Street, Court Avenue Bridge and E. First Street.
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Welcoming Iowa Event

Thursday, Oct. 12 | Mainframe Studios
Hosted by Des Moines’ branch of the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, the benefit provides an opportunity for all to experience global hospitality including food from local immigrant-owned restaurants and live performances as well. Proceeds for this event will help DSM to be more welcoming to refugees and immigrants, providing resources for goods and services not covered by state and federal funding such as transportation, emergency housing, food and medical support.
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Capital City Pride Presents: Sam Schedler

Thursday, Oct. 12 | Temple Theater
A queer comedian from Minnesota’s Twin Cities, Sam Schedler takes to social media to provide a unique angle on topics like religious trauma, misinformation and LGBTQIA+ issues. This event is part of the Capital City Pride Speaker Series with events taking place year-round to provide support and education to the Pride community and local allies on various elements of being LGBTQ+.
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You might also be interested in the Italian Heritage Dinner, taking place on the outskirts of Downtown DSM this Sunday, Oct. 8 at the Italian American Cultural Center of Iowa (2633 Fleur Drive, Des Moines). The event will be a culmination of Italian food and wine, along with a celebration of DSM’s Italian heritage. And don't forget the Downtown Farmers' Market starts new hours this month, so stop by vendor booths from 8 a.m. until Noon  this Saturday!

Looking for even more Downtown events and happenings? Here’s a look at 5 free things to do in Downtown Des Moines during October!

For these upcoming events and more, find tips on Downtown Des Moines (DSM) parking and navigation. For additional upcoming events, visit the Downtown DSM events calendar. Plus, follow @downtownDSMUSA on Instagram for more epic, things-you-just-can’t-miss happening around Downtown.