5 Things You’ve Gotta Do in Downtown DSM This Week: June 6-12

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is turning up the volume on summer vibes this week with a lineup that’s equal parts energetic, artistic and totally unique. Whether you’re watching ballet beneath the stars, cheering on IRONMAN athletes, celebrating Pride or grooving to live music, there’s something exciting around every corner. This week is all about movement, meaning and making memories — and Downtown DSM is the place to soak it all in. Keep scrolling for five can’t-miss events that’ll add a little magic to your June calendar.

Capital City PrideFest

Friday, June 6 – Sunday, June 8, 2025 | Historic East Village
Pride is more than a party — it’s a movement. And this year’s Capital City PrideFest brings the full spectrum of celebration, activism and community together for an unforgettable weekend in Downtown DSM. Expect three days of live entertainment, parades, performances, vendors and events honoring LGBTQ+ voices and history. This year marks the 46th celebration and the energy is bigger and brighter than ever. Whether you’re waving your rainbow flag, supporting allies or just soaking in the love and joy, PrideFest is where it’s at this weekend.
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Chelsey Green & The Green Project

Saturday, June 7, 2025 | Temple Theater
If you think strings are just for classical music, think again. Chelsey Green & The Green Project are flipping the script with an electrifying fusion of violin, viola, vocals and serious genre-bending energy. From R&B and jazz to pop and funk, they bring rich, soulful sounds to the stage — and they’ve performed everywhere from the Kennedy Center to international music festivals. This isn’t your typical night at the symphony. It’s bold. It’s vibrant. It’s something you need to experience live. Get your tickets, grab a friend and prepare to be blown away!
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Iowa Craft Brew Festival

Saturday, June 7, 2025 | Water Works Park
Calling all beer lovers: This is your Super Bowl. The Iowa Craft Brew Festival is bringing the hops, malts and local brews to Water Works Park for an afternoon of sipping, snacking and sunshine. Sample your way through pours from some of the best breweries in the state (and beyond), enjoy live music and chat with the people behind your favorite pints. It’s laid-back, flavor-packed and totally worth the ticket. Pro tip: come hungry — there’ll be food trucks on deck to balance out the brews.
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Still craving more festival fun? Don’t miss the Greek Food Fair happening just outside Downtown DSM this week, too.

IRONMAN Des Moines

Sunday, June 8, 2025 | Downtown DSM
IRONMAN 70.3 Des Moines is back, and it’s taking over with world-class endurance, grit and seriously impressive athleticism. Athletes will swim, bike and run their way through 70.3 miles of Iowa landscapes before crossing the finish line right in the heart of Downtown DSM. Whether you’re racing or just here to cheer, the energy is contagious — especially at the finish line! Bring your signs, your loudest claps and your crew for a day of unforgettable moments and major inspiration.
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Ballet Des Moines Summer STEM Tour

Thursday, June 12, 2025 | Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park
Dance meets discovery at this one-of-a-kind evening from Ballet Des Moines. The Summer STEM Tour is back with “See the Music” — a fusion of ballet, poetry, science demos and live music that’ll make you rethink how you experience art. The event kicks off with hands-on activities and STEM exhibits (think NASA, virtual reality, coding and more), followed by a powerful performance in the open-air amphitheater. It’s free, family-friendly and totally inspiring. Want to make it extra special? Grab a VIP ticket for front-row seats, sparkling wine and a picnic dinner under the stars.
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Get ready for a fresh batch of free fun — June’s Downtown DSM roundup is here and packed with no-cost ways to play.

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.