5 Surprising, Fun, Unique Things to Do This Week in Downtown DSM

From a Groundhogs Day celebration to symphony music and a dose of wine-and-ballet pairings, the next week in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is full of surprising, fun and unique things to do. Here’s a look at five can’t-miss things coming up:

Groundhog Day Grand Opening Party

Friday, Feb. 2 | High Life Lounge
Possibly one of Downtown DSM’s best kept secrets, the High Life Lounge’s annual Groundhogs Day celebration is among the top five things you won’t want to miss this week! Join in the festivities and welcome Polk County Paula (i.e., a person dressed up as a groundhog mascot!) as they prepare to predict whether DSM will see an early spring or experience winter for a few more weeks. The doors will open at 6 a.m. and free beer will be provided, while supplies last.
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A Celebration in Song

Saturday, Feb. 3 | St. Ambrose Cathedral
This third annual collegiate invitational concert will include a mash-up of both individual and combined choir performances, featuring the Des Moines Choral Society (pictured below), Iowa State Singers and the Drake Choir. The concert will also debut the world premiere of a new piece by composer Marques Garrett.
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The Snow Ball

Saturday, Feb. 3 | Science Center of Iowa
Immerse yourself in the wonders of winter at the Des Moines Parks & Recreation event, The Snow Ball. This event promises an evening filled with dancing, refreshments and photo opportunities suitable for children and their caregivers. Additionally, a hands-on art project and captivating science exhibits will be ready to enjoy as well! Each child will receive a carnation flower. A chocolate fondue station with various dipping options will be at your disposal for everyone's enjoyment. Please note, a full meal will not be provided; registration closes on Friday, Feb. 2.
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Des Moines Symphony’s Masterworks 4: Discover Groundbreaking Innovation

Saturday, Feb. 3 – Sunday, Feb. 4 | Des Moines Civic Center
Experience celebrated musical leadership of conductor Keith Lockhart, famed for his direction of the Boston Symphony and Boston Pops, as he conducts the Des Moines Symphony Orchestra. The performance will showcase Bartok's revolutionary “Concerto for Orchestra” and Barber's enchanting “Violin Concerto,” featuring the prodigious talent of 15-year-old Amaryn Olmeda. The Des Moines Symphony is pictured below with Music Director and Maestro, Joseph Giunta.
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Assemblé, with Love

Thursday, Feb. 8 | Willow on Grand
Celebrate diverse love stories through this unforgettable journey of taste and artistry at this collaborative event by Winefest Des Moines and Ballet Des Moines. Experience a unique fusion of culinary excellence, including Aaron Tolzmann with Bubba, Lynn Pritchard with Table 128 and 503 Cocktail Lab + Tasting Lounge and Kristen Dailey with Pie Bird Pies. Additionally, Guillermo Muñoz with Roots and Vines will provide the perfect pairings with each of the four dinner courses. The dinner is the start of a series of events culminating in the world premiere of Love Letters, a spectacular Ballet Des Moines performance coming up March 8-9.
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Photo Credit: Christopher Maharry

Looking for more? Here’s a list of five free things to do in Downtown Des Moines in February.

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.