Have the Time of Your Life: 5 Can’t-Miss Events Coming to Downtown DSM

A visit to one of these five can’t-miss events in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) will have you thinking, “I’ve had the time of my life!” Here’s a look at what’s happening this week:

Bojangles: Napoleon Douglas

Friday, Oct. 20 | Noce
Highlighting the music of Sammy Davis. Jr., Napoleon Douglas along with his jazz orchestra is a performance you won’t want to miss! You’ll hear favorite and famous tunes from the late-great jazz artist such as Mr. Bojangles, The Candy Man, I’ve Gotta Be Me and more. Tickets start at just $18!
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Pro Tip: You might also be interested in the Des Moines Jazz Hall of Fame Ceremony & Concert taking place this week, too, on Sunday, Oct. 22 at Noce!

"Monster & Me” Cupcake Story Time & Halloween Party

Sunday, Oct. 22 | Molly’s Cupcakes
Poking around for a family-friendly Halloween activity this week? We’ve got you covered! This themed story time will get a little spooky (but not too spooky!) with face painting, paint-your-own-pumpkin, cupcakes and costumes, too! If this Sunday doesn’t work for you, no sweat! Take a look at additional Halloween-themed events like a Frankenstein cake decorating class and Halloween Cooking Decorating event coming up next weekend, too.
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Des Moines Storytellers Project: Family

Tuesday, Oct. 24 | Hoyt Sherman Place
This live storytelling series features first-person narratives from people just like you: Your neighbors, your friends, local notables … could you be next? The Des Moines Register’s journalists curate and coach local people into becoming storytellers where they share unforgettable and true tales. The theme of this installment is all about family.
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Puzzlepalooza: Rest in Pieces

Wednesday, Oct. 25 | Peace Tree – Des Moines Branch
The Rook Room is bringing their spookier-than-ever jigsaw puzzle competition to Downtown DSM this week! The “Rest in Pieces” theme will bring together friends, frights, puzzles and local craft beer. Don’t forget to come dressed in your best costume!
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Dirty Dancing in Concert

Wednesday, Oct. 25 | Des Moines Civic Center
Ready to have the time of your life? This film-to-concert experience will feature the classic ‘80s movie on a full-sized cinema screen, accompanied by a live band and singers performing the film’s iconic soundtrack.
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Looking for even more Downtown events and happenings? Here’s a look at 5 free things to do in Downtown Des Moines during October!

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.