Downtown Des Moines is Vibin’ With These 5 Events This Week

Shopping? Check. A murder mystery show? Check. Dancing? Check. Live music, food trucks and a parade, too?! These things to do in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) — happening this week only — create a total vibe and you won’t want to miss it! Take a look at what’s ahead:

First Fridays in the East Village

Friday, Aug. 4 | Historic East Village
From 5 to 8 p.m., stroll the Historic East Village for an evening of local shopping plus tasty food and drinks in Downtown Des Moines. Several businesses will extend their hours to stay open late, and many are offering specials and giveaways, too!
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Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show

Saturday, August 5 | Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown
Who dun it? Get your tickets to a fun and interactive evening trying to solve a murder, but beware … you just might find yourself as the #1 suspect! And come hungry for dinner, served on-site from the Embassy Suites’ in-house restaurant, Liberty’s.
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Iowa Choreography Festival

Saturday, Aug. 5 | Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park
Enjoy several new works by 10 local choreographers, displayed by 16 talented dance performers and seven costume designers along with live music performed by four musicians and one installation artist. Additionally, art vendors and food trucks will be available nearby. The grounds open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m., don’t be late!
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The Vida Sisters & Tony McGhee

Wednesday, Aug. 9 | Des Moines Biergarten
Coming up mid-week, head over to the pop-up German-style beer garden located inside Water Works Park for live music provided by Vida Sisters. AnnaLyn and Bobbie were born and raised in Manila, Philippines and now call DSM home. Joining the sisters is Tony McGhee, bringing his smooth jazz sound, along with Motown tributes.
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Iowa State Fair Parade

Wednesday, Aug. 9 | Downtown Des Moines
The Fair is nearly here, and that can only mean one thing: It’s time for the Iowa State Fair Parade winding its way through Downtown Des Moines! This beloved tradition is the official kickoff to the fair for many locals and visitors alike. The parade brings 200+ entries starting from the Iowa State Capitol, then running west along Grand Avenue to 15th Street. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on, settle in and enjoy the parade!
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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.