Free Things to Do in Downtown Des Moines: January Edition

Bust out of the house this winter without breaking the bank! These 100% free things to do in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) this January will keep you entertained all month long.

Winter Warrior Runs

Saturdays, Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31, 2026 | Fleet Feet Des Moines
Each Saturday morning in January, dress for the weather and join fellow Winter Warriors on a social run or walk kicking off at Fleet Feet in the Historic East Village. With routes at approximately three and five miles, you’ll earn points for each day you participate which can be used towards prize drawings (hello, new running gear!). And don’t skip out on Kevan’s world-famous hot chocolate to help you warm up after each run!
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Geeks Who Drink Pub Quiz Trivia

Mondays, Jan. 5, 12, 19 & 25, 2026 | Rook Room Game Lounge & Cafe
Think your squad has what it takes to dominate trivia night? Round up your brainiest friends and head to the Rook Room Game Lounge & Cafe every Monday at 7 p.m. for Geeks Who Drink Pub Quiz Trivia Night. It’s free to play, hosted live by a Quiz Master and packed with seven rounds of clever questions, including audio and visual challenges. Bring a charged device to submit answers and compete for prizes and bragging rights. Teams of six or fewer are eligible to win, but the more the merrier—just split into multiple teams if needed. No registration required, just show up, grab a drink and get ready to flex those brain cells.
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Stand Up Comedy Open Mic Night

Sunday, Jan. 6, 13, 20 & 27, 2026 | Beechwood Lounge
Don’t miss Underground Comedy Open Mic Night every Tuesday in January, hosted by Dan Umthun, Alex Carter, Matt Lamb, Mel Mackey, Megan Ellis, Dave Kilbride, Brandon Ream and Damon Tucker. Help welcome local comedians and wannabes to the stage at the Beechwood Lounge’s basement bar. Interested comics can sign up beginning at 7:30 p.m. each night, followed by the show starting at 8 p.m.
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Learn to Skate Clinics

Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026 & Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026 | Brenton Skating Plaza
Adults and kids ages four and up are invited to learn to skate for free at Brenton Skating Plaza! Pro skating coach Darlene Lewis will lead each class, suitable for beginners and those looking to brush up on their ice-skating skills. Pre-registration is required.
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WinterFest Market

Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026 | EMC Expo Center
Shake off the post-holiday slump and step into a cozy, feel-good experience at Winterfest Market! Browse handcrafted goods, wintery treasures, and one-of-a-kind finds from your favorite local makers and small businesses. Soaking up the warm, festive vibes at this indoor market is the perfect way to kick off the new year. Explore unique booths and discover something new.
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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.