Holiday Magic Awaits: 5 Downtown DSM Events to Catch This Week: Nov. 28-Dec. 4

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is officially in holiday mode, and this week’s lineup is bringing all the sparkle, heart and hometown magic you could ask for. From the warmth of a glowing tree and carriage rides in the park to meaningful moments that benefit local children, it’s the perfect mix of feel-good traditions and brand-new experiences. Whether you’re craving a cozy photo with Santa, exploring a powerful art exhibit or soaking in the sights and sounds of a German-style holiday market, there’s no shortage of festive energy to go around. Keep scrolling for five events that’ll help you wrap up November and kick off December — with joy and festive vibes.

Polk County Heritage Art Gallery Exhibit: To Name One’s Heart

Friday, Nov. 21 – Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025 | Polk County Heritage Art Gallery
If you’re craving a quieter, more reflective moment this season, this art exhibit is it. Photographer Stephanie Brunia shares a deeply personal collection chronicling her journey into motherhood, as both a stepmom and a biological mom. These stunning, intimate photos explore connection, identity, presence and transformation, all set within a domestic lens. The Heritage Gallery is a hidden gem in the heart of Downtown DSM, and admission is totally free. Stop by during weekday hours to experience a different kind of storytelling that stays with you long after you leave.
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Festival of Trees & Lights for Blank Children’s Hospital

Friday, Nov. 28 – Sunday, Nov. 30, 2025 | Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center
One of the most beloved holiday traditions in Downtown DSM is back! The 42nd Annual Festival of Trees & Lights is not just a jaw-dropping display of beautifully decorated trees and lights, it’s also the biggest fundraiser for Blank Children’s Hospital. Expect heartwarming performances, crafts for the kids, a scavenger hunt and plenty of photo ops with Santa. Plus, the holiday gift shop is stocked and ready for your shopping fix. Bonus: They’ve gone cashless this year, so be sure to bring your cards for a smoother experience. It’s festive fun with a feel-good mission behind it.
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Hy-Vee Holiday Parade

Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025 | Downtown DSM
Clear your calendar Saturday morning — the inaugural Hy-Vee Holiday Parade is taking over Downtown DSM! With festive floats, live marching bands, local dance teams and even a visit from the Budweiser Clydesdales, this high-energy event is bringing holiday cheer to our Downtown DSM streets. Expect a few surprise guests (KC Wolf and Santa Claus!) and thousands of smiling faces lining the route. Parade starts at 10 a.m., but you’ll want to get there early to grab a good spot. It’s free, it’s fun and it’s your new favorite holiday tradition in the making.
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Tinseltown

Saturday & Sunday, Nov. 29 – Nov. 30 & Dec. 13 – Dec. 14, 2025 | Water Works Park
Get ready for next-level holiday magic at Tinseltown, a two-day celebration packed with twinkle lights, live music, carriage rides and cozy community vibes. Explore the Tinsel Marketplace for local gifts, warm up in the EZ-FM Warming Hut and don’t miss St. Nicholas reading holiday classics with his real reindeer. From tree lightings to toy drives and cocoa stations, these seasonal stops are sure to delight all ages. It’s the kind of event you’ll want to bundle up for and stay awhile — and even better, many of the activities are free!
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Christkindlmarket Des Moines

Thursday – Sunday, Dec. 4-7 & Dec. 11-14, 2025 | Principal Park
Ready to be transported? Christkindlmarket Des Moines is back with all the old-world charm of a traditional German Christmas market — think mulled wine (Glühwein!), handmade gifts, holiday music and polka performances. Grab a brat, sip something warm and stroll between wooden vendor stalls overflowing with handcrafted treasures. It’s festive, family-friendly and free to attend. Bonus: You’ll get to enjoy European treats you won’t find anywhere else in town.
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Want to enjoy December without spending a dime? Downtown DSM is packed with free fun all month 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.