Festive Things to Do in Downtown Des Moines This Week: Dec. 12-18

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is in full-on holiday mode, and this week’s events bring the sparkle, the spectacle and the Swiftie-level excitement. Whether you’re sipping on seasonal cocktails under thousands of twinkling lights, shopping at a festive outdoor marketplace, gliding across the ice to Taylor’s greatest hits or soaking in the sounds of a classic holiday jazz trio, there’s no shortage of ways to get into the spirit. From immersive pop-up experiences to tree-lined trails lit with cheer, the holiday magic is alive and well in every corner of Downtown DSM. Keep scrolling to unwrap five festive things to do Dec. 12-18, and get ready for cocoa, carols, cocktails and more.

Winter Wonderland

Now – Friday, Jan. 2, 2026 | Nightingale Cocktail
It’s holiday glam like you’ve never seen before. Step inside Winter Wonderland, the ultimate seasonal pop-up tucked in the heart of the Historic East Village. Every 30 minutes, the immersive sound-and-light show goes full sparkle mode — complete with snow. Yes, indoors! Order up a custom holiday cocktail (your first one is free with a ticket!) and soak in the over-the-top decorations, festive music and jolly vibes. It’s the perfect way to toast the season and get that festive group photo you’ll actually want to post.
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You might also be interested in Kramp-ish, The Naughty List and The Nice List pop-ups, each bringing a playful twist to your holiday night out.

Dome for the Holidays

Now – Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026 | Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Warm up your holiday plans with a glowing escape to Dome for the Holidays at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. This tropical oasis gets a winter makeover with thousands of twinkle lights, interactive art, a beloved gnome hunt, seasonal snacks and drinks — and even cozy Igloo Experiences! It’s fun for all ages and makes a dreamy setting for holiday photos. The experience runs through Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, but tickets go fast, so grab yours early and let the magic bloom.
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Tinseltown + Tour de Lights

Saturday, Dec. 13 – Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025 | Water Works Park
Water Works Park transforms into a twinkling winter escape with the return of Tinseltown. Browse the Tinsel Marketplace for local gifts and last-minute goodies, enjoy a pint at the Des Moines Biergarten and say hi to St. Nick and his reindeer. On Sunday, Dec. 14, suit up for Tour de Lights — a fun run, walk or ride through the glowing park trails. Think: ugly sweaters, bike lights, holiday costumes and festive vibes. Your ticket gets you a commemorative mug, cocoa and all the merry magic you can handle. Don’t forget to grab your tree from Northern Holiday!
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Also check out The Peppermint Trail at The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand, just outside Downtown DSM. A festive stroll of holiday lights, peppermint‑themed specials, shopping and seasonal cheer, happening this Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025.

Swiftie Skate

Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025 | Brenton Skating Plaza
Calling all Swifties! This Saturday, lace up your skates and head to Brenton Skating Plaza for a Taylor-themed birthday bash on ice. Swiftie Skate is bringing the sparkle with nonstop hits, hot cocoa and major Eras energy. Rock your favorite Taylor outfit or go full “Showgirl” glam, and get ready to skate, sing and channel your inner main character. Regular admission applies, and no pre-registration is needed. It’s giving shimmer. It’s giving fearless. It’s giving Taylor.
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Keep your eyes peeled — Hide & Seek Ornaments You Keep is still going strong through Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, with plenty of surprises left to find!

A Charlie Brown Christmas with Tanner Taylor Trio

Monday, Dec. 15, 2025 | Noce
Jazz fans and holiday purists, this one’s for you. Head to Noce on this Monday, for a magical night with the Tanner Taylor Trio as they perform Vince Guaraldi’s beloved “A Charlie Brown Christmas” score. It’s everything you love — mellow piano riffs, nostalgic warmth and a cozy, candlelit vibe that’s pure holiday comfort. Tanner Taylor, an Iowa Jazz Hall of Fame inductee, brings serious talent to the stage with this tribute to one of the season’s most timeless soundtracks.
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Looking for festive fun that won’t cost a thing? Downtown DSM has you covered with free events all December long.

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.