Hustle & Bustle to Downtown DSM for These 5 Free Upcoming Events

It’s the holiday season and Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is hustlin’ and bustlin’ with so many festive things to do: Local shopping, food and drink, live entertainment, arts and culture and lots more! Here’s a look at five FREE things to do during the month of December in Downtown DSM.

Christkindlmarket Des Moines

Thursday – Sunday, Dec. 4-7 & Dec. 11-14, 2025 | Principal Park
This German-inspired Christmas marketplace is where European-style foods, goods and activities coalesce. Grab a hot cup of Glühwein and peruse the vendors featuring handcrafted wares from traditional wooden stalls. Visit the Yuletide Hall entertainment area to enjoy live polka music, singing choirs, bell ringers and traditional dance. Additionally, a kids’ area offers cultural activities for all ages! Admission is free.
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Hide and Seek Ornaments You Keep

Friday, Dec. 5 – Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025| Downtown Des Moines
A free, pop-up activation that celebrates local artists by hiding handmade ornaments across Downtown DSM. The event encourages participants to hunt for ornaments hidden near downtown retailers, restaurants and attractions — and once they’ve finished hunting to visit these businesses to support local and help Downtown DSM thrive.
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Historic East Village Holiday Promenade

Fridays, Now – Dec. 19. 2025 | Historic East Village
‘Tis the season to be jolly, and merriment is never in short supply during the Holiday Promenade! The free holiday event features festive activities, holiday entertainment and family-friendly fun including unique highlights each week, plus a holiday trolley! Be sure to stop into the shops and restaurants in the Village to support local businesses this holiday season. In December, enjoy the following events: Dec. 5 – Winefest's Vino at the Promenade, Dec. 12 – Ugly Sweater Contest and Dec. 19 – Drone Show with Santa Claus!
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Photo Credit: Alan Jacobs

Hey! We think you might also be interested in the Peppermint Trail taking place on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025 in a neighborhood adjacent to Downtown DSM: the Avenues of Ingersoll and Grand.

Holiday Open House

Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025 | World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
You’re invited to a free holly jolly celebration at the World Food Prize — complete with caroling, hot cocoa and other holiday treats, and a visit with Jolly Old Saint Nick. Explore the art, architecture and exhibits on display showcasing Iowa’s contributions in food and agriculture around the world. Non-perishable food donations can be donated on-site as well, to benefit individuals who are food insecure around the community.
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Tinseltown

Saturday, Dec. 13 – Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025 | Water Works Park
Step into a festive wonderland filled with glowing lights, carriage rides, live performances and that unmistakable feel-good community spirit. Shop for handmade treasures at the Tinsel Marketplace, sip cocoa in the cozy EZ-FM Warming Hut and gather ’round as St. Nicholas reads holiday favorites — yes, with real reindeer in tow. Whether you’re here for the lights, the music or the memory-making moments, this celebration invites you to slow down, soak it all in and stay awhile.
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For additional ideas this holiday season, take a peep at the Holiday Guides from around the region! And as the weather changes, you’ll want to be prepared for what’s to come. Here are some helpful tips on how to remain safe during the coldest months of the year.

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.