Don’t Miss These 5 Events in Downtown DSM This Week: Nov. 7-13

The holidays are creeping in, but Downtown Des Moines (DSM) isn’t in a rush. This week is all about striking the perfect balance of festive and fun with five can’t-miss events. Whether you’re getting a head start on holiday shopping, sipping something seasonal, catching a basketball game or dancing the night away in Gatsby-worthy glam, there’s something happening to match your vibe. From Nov. 7-13, Downtown DSM is packed with ways to get out, get inspired and ease into the spirit — no matter what your calendar looks like. Here’s what’s happening this week.

Des Moines Holiday Boutique

Friday, Nov. 7 – Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025 | EMC Expo Center at the Iowa Events Center
Ready to shop ‘til you drop? The Des Moines Holiday Boutique is back for a full weekend of festive fun, gift-worthy goodies and serious holiday spirit. The EMC Expo Center transforms into a winter wonderland packed with unique vendors, stylish finds and shopping vibes galore. Grab your girls, snag a discounted ticket online and knock out your holiday list (or just treat yourself, no judgment). Bonus: Kids 12 and under are free, and it’s a perfect way to get in the gifting groove early.
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Iowa Wolves Two-Game Home Series

Friday, Nov. 7 – Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025 | Casey's Center at the Iowa Events Center
Basketball fans, your weekend plans just came together. The Iowa Wolves are hitting the home court for a back-to-back showdown Friday and Saturday night at Casey’s Center. As the official G League affiliate of the Minnesota Timberwolves, these guys bring pro-level talent, fast breaks and high-flying dunks to Downtown DSM, all in a family-friendly atmosphere. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and tip-off is at 6:30 p.m. both nights, so grab your crew, your jersey and your loudest cheer voice. Bonus: it’s a great way to see future NBA stars up close and in action!
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First Friday – State of the Arts: Iowa’s Artist Fellows

Friday, Nov. 7, 2025 | Mainframe Studios
Mainframe Studios is throwing open its doors for November’s First Friday, and this month’s theme celebrates Iowa’s most inspiring creatives. Stop by from 5-8 p.m. for State of the Arts, featuring a special exhibit curated by Rachel Connell Royster and showcasing the Iowa Artist Fellows. While you’re there, wander through open studios, enjoy live music and grab food and drinks from local vendors. Five floors of creative energy, all in one place — and always free to attend. Shuttle service and extra parking make it super easy to swing by, even on a busy Friday night.
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LGBTQ+ and Ally Adult Prom

Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025 | Bash DSM
This isn’t just any prom! It’s time to channel your inner Gatsby and hit the dance floor at the LGBTQ+ and Ally Adult Prom. With a Great Gatsby theme, jazz vibes and an atmosphere that’s all about self-expression and celebration, this is your chance to get glam and go big. Flapper dresses, sequined suits, feathered headpieces—if it sparkles, it works. Tickets include dinner, 2 drinks and a whole lot of fabulous energy. 18+ only, so leave the kids at home and come ready to dance the night away at Bash DSM.
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SnowGlobe Des Moines

Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025 - Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026 | Exile Brewing Co.
You know it’s the holiday season when Exile Brewing Co. turns into a twinkling, ornament-stuffed dreamland. SnowGlobe DSM is back starting this Tuesday, and it’s bigger, brighter and more over-the-top than ever. Think festive cocktails, holiday snacks, magical photo ops and cozy holiday vibes from top to bottom. Reservations are recommended (this fills up fast!), and yes — it’s totally worth it. Whether you’re starting a new tradition or coming back for another round of peppermint cheer, SnowGlobe is pure, jolly magic.
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Looking for even more holiday cheer? Check out other pop-ups around Downtown DSM like Tinsel at Either/Or, The Naughty List at Good News, Darling, Rudolph’s Rooftop at The Republic on Grand, The Nice List at Secret Admirer — and don’t miss Santa Paws, just outside of Downtown!

And celebrate Veterans Day early at these Downtown DSM events: Veterans Free Visit Day at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and the Star Spangled Salute to Veterans featuring the Iowa Military Veterans Band at the Des Moines Civic Center.

Looking for free ways to make the most of November? Downtown DSM’s lineup has you covered.

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.