Downtown DSM January Fun: 5 Events to Check Out This Week (Jan. 16-22)

From mixology mysteries and Pink Floyd light shows to a Wookie-approved beer fest, Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is keeping things exciting this January. Whether you’re up for a night of artsy vibes and iced coffee, gliding into a new hobby on the ice or rocking out after an Iowa Wild goal (or two), this week’s lineup has no shortage of unique ways to shake off the post-holiday slump. You’ll find events perfect for group hangs, date nights or solo outings — all within a few blocks of Downtown DSM’s best food, drink and entertainment spots. So grab your calendar, bundle up and scroll on for five fresh, fun ways to explore Downtown DSM from Jan. 16-22.

Mixology Night: Mystery at the Museum + Pink Floyd Dome Show

Friday, Jan. 16, 2026 | Science Center of Iowa
Get ready to sleuth your way through a night of cocktails and clues at SCI’s 21+ Mixology Night: Mystery at the Museum, created in partnership with The Rook Room. Explore the exhibits while solving a live-action whodunit, sip themed drinks and test your puzzle-solving prowess. Want to level up the vibe? Add a showing of Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon inside SCI’s 50-foot immersive planetarium dome — an epic visual and audio journey set to the iconic 1973 album. Choose from 6:30 p.m. or 9:00 p.m. showtimes. Grab your friends, sharpen your senses and prepare for one unforgettable night.
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Iowa Wild Home Games

Friday, Jan. 16, Saturday, Jan. 17 & Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026 | Casey’s Center
This week’s Iowa Wild home stand is stacked with hockey, hometown heroes and postgame parties. Here’s the lineup:

• Friday, Jan. 16 vs. Toronto Marlies – Local Heroes Night + $2 beers (until end of 1st period) + Fireball Friday specials
• Saturday, Jan. 17 vs. Toronto Marlies – County Night + LOCASH Postgame Concert + 2-for-1 Confluence beers (until puck drop)
• Wednesday, Jan. 21 vs. Texas Stars – Winning Wednesday: If the Wild win, your ticket = free ticket to a future game!

Whether you’re here for the action, the tunes or the deals, there’s a reason to show up every game night this week.
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ChewBOCKa Fest

Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026 | Confluence Brewing Company
Calling all intergalactic beer lovers — ChewBOCKa Fest is back! Celebrate the release of Confluence’s beloved dark bock with a day of Star Wars-themed fun. Sip the limited-edition brew while grooving to live music from Trio Aceto (Noon to 3 p.m.) and take part in galactic festivities that are sure to channel your inner Wookie. Whether you come in costume or just for the beer, it’s one of Confluence’s most legendary days of the year.
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Free Learn to Skate Clinic

Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026 | Brenton Skating Plaza
Always wanted to learn to skate? This is your sign. Join coach Darlene Lewis and crew for a free Learn to Skate Clinic at Brenton Skating Plaza. It’s open to everyone ages 4 and up, whether it’s your first time lacing up or you’re just brushing up on your skating skills. Skate rental and instruction are both free, but pre-registration is required to save your spot. The session runs from 10:30-11:30 a.m. so you’ve still got time to brunch after.
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Art Night with Art is Rad

Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026 | Smokey Row
This casual art night is made for beginners and creatives alike. Hosted by Art is Rad, this chill meetup at Smokey Row invites you to sip coffee, try your hand at a different art project each week (think watercolor, collage, paint-and-pass) and hang out with other rad humans. $10 covers all supplies and instruction. We recommend you RSVP online to save your spot (space is limited to 20!).
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Downtown DSM brings fresh energy and free fun in January. Check out these ideas to get out and about in Downtown without spending a dime.

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.