Don’t Miss These 5 Downtown DSM Events Sept. 5–11

_{Header photo courtesy of the Iowa Cubs, Dylan Heuer and Ginnie Coleman.}

The first full week of September in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is shaping up to be one for the books. Think neighborhood block parties, baseball promos, live storytelling, garden strolls with a glass of wine and the most anticipated football showdown of the season. Whether you’re here for local shopping and cocktails, cheering at Principal Park, listening to authentic Iowa voices or catching the Iowa vs. Iowa State game at your favorite Downtown DSM hangout, the city is buzzing with energy. From weekday evenings to weekend highlights, there’s no shortage of ways to keep your calendar packed. Keep reading for five can’t-miss things to do in Downtown DSM, Sept. 5–11 — you’ll want to mark these down.

Iowa Cubs Home Series

Tuesday, Sept. 2 – Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025 | Principal Park
Baseball + promos = a home run week at Principal Park! The Iowa Cubs take on the Omaha Storm Chasers with plenty of fun extras sprinkled throughout the series. Don’t miss Harry Potter Day, where the ballpark transforms with themed entertainment and a magical giveaway — fans of all ages are encouraged to rep their Hogwarts House colors. And of course, Sunday is for the kids: after the game, they’ll get the chance to run the bases and feel like pros on the field. With baseball action and promos like these, it’s a great time to catch a game in Downtown DSM.
LEARN MORE

 

First Fridays in the East Village

Friday, Sept. 5, 2025 | Historic East Village
Start your weekend in one of Downtown DSM’s most vibrant neighborhoods — First Fridays in the Historic East Village! From 5 to 8 p.m. (and sometimes later), the streets come alive with shopping specials, happy hours, music and community fun. Grab $9 craft cocktails or $7 wine at Flora during happy hour, check out whiskey-themed games and discounts at Fontenelle Supply Co., sip 2-for-1 seasonal cocktails at Nightingale or pop into Petals & Moss for extended shopping during their All You Can Leaf box sale. It’s the perfect evening to wander, snack, shop and enjoy the neighborhood vibes as the city shifts into fall.
LEARN MORE

 

Also happening this week: don’t miss PorchFest DSM on Sunday, Sept. 7 in the Union Park neighborhood — bringing live music, food and community fun just steps from Downtown DSM.

Iowa vs. Iowa State Football Game: Where to Watch in Downtown DSM

Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025 | Various Downtown DSM Locations
It’s the biggest game of the year — the Iowa Hawkeyes take on the Iowa State Cyclones! Whether you’re in black and gold or cardinal and gold, Downtown DSM is packed with spots ready to host your game day crew. Grab a seat, order your favorite game-day bites and cheer (or yell) at the big screens in these fan-favorite locations:

• Big Grove Brewery
• Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing
• Exile Brewing Company
• Iowa Taproom
• Lua Brewing
• Mullets
• Truman’s KC Pizza Tavern

Want more options? Check out this list of Downtown DSM sports bars, perfect for watching the game!

Tell It Like It Is: Iowa Storytellers Project “Back to School”

Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025 | Hoyt Sherman Place
Sometimes the most powerful entertainment isn’t scripted — it’s real stories, told live. The Iowa Storytellers Project returns to Hoyt Sherman Place with a “Back to School” theme, featuring five local storytellers including Emmy Award–winning journalist Harry Smith. Expect authentic, funny, heartfelt and moving stories that connect us through shared experiences. With a mix of humor, nostalgia and inspiration, this night is a reminder that the best stories aren’t always found in books — they’re lived, and they’re told right here on stage.
LEARN MORE

 

Sip & Stroll at the Botanical Garden

Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025 | Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
There’s something magical about wine and gardens, and the Botanical Garden’s Sip & Stroll has perfected the combo. This Thursday, grab a glass of wine and enjoy a guided walk through the lush spaces with the Botanical Garden’s director of horticulture, Aaron Harpold. Learn what’s blooming, what’s on deck for the season ahead and soak up the peaceful setting as you sip and wander. Choose between two sessions (5:30–6:30 p.m. or 7–8 p.m.), making it an easy add to your weeknight. It’s 21+ only, so bring a friend for a night of conversation, color and relaxation in one of Downtown DSM’s most beautiful settings.
LEARN MORE

Downtown DSM’s September lineup of free events has arrived — filled with big energy and zero cost 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.