Indulge in These 5 Downtown DSM Events This Week

Indulge yourself in a fun-filled week this week in Downtown Des Moines (DSM). These five can’t-miss events range from a wine, cheese and chocolate affair to a celebration of Iowa’s bicycle culture, and even a family-friendly trip to Havana, Cuba (using your imagination!). You won’t want to miss out — take a look:

Mamma Mia

Tuesday, Jan. 23 – Sunday, Jan. 28 | Des Moines Civic Center
This show’s storyline revolves around a young woman named Sophie who invites three men from her mother's past to her wedding in hopes of discovering her true father. This lighthearted and entertaining show is a celebration of love, friendship and the timeless music of 1970s Swedish pop group, ABBA. You’ll hear favorites like “Dancing Queen,” “SOS,” “Take A Chance On Me” and, of course, “Mamma Mia!”
LEARN MORE

Indulge: A Wine, Cheese and Chocolate Affair

Friday, Jan. 26 and Saturday, Jan. 27 | West End Architectural Salvage
The most indulgent event in Downtown DSM is taking place this weekend. Enjoy a delicious spread of artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, decadent desserts and chocolates — with a wide range of wines available, allowing for your ideal pairings. Stroll through the four stories of vintage, architectural and artful finds within West End while enjoying live music from Mike Aceto on Friday or Jenna Huston on Saturday. Advanced purchase of tickets is strongly recommended!
LEARN MORE

Events at Peace Tree

Friday, Jan. 26 | Peace Tree – Des Moines Branch
There’s a ton going on at Downtown DSM’s Peace Tree this Friday! Stop in at Noon for the tapping of Blonde on Blonde and the unveiling of a new beer: Something Hoppening Here. Come back from 7 to 9 p.m. to see nationally touring Indie Folk artist Anna p.s. performing live. And be sure to give one of their grilled cheese sandwiches a try, while you’re at it. The sandwiches are only offered on Tuesdays and Fridays in January; we’re not exactly sure what the secret “Pirate Sauce” is, but we’re curious enough to try it!

Havana Hop

Saturday, Jan. 27 | Temple Theater
This children’s story is about young Yeila as she visits her grandmother in Cuba and finds fun in her multi-cultural heritage. The audience will love dancing along as the show’s single actress portrays three generations of lively characters. Of note, there are two showtimes to choose from, and the 2 p.m. performance offered will be sensory-friendly.
LEARN MORE

Iowa Bike Expo & RAGBRAI Route Announcement Party

Saturday, Jan. 27 | Iowa Events Center
The Iowa Bike Expo is a free, day-long event where 5,000+ biking enthusiasts gather to browse gear, trends, products and destinations while mingling with other bike-lovers. And this year is their 20th anniversary! Be sure to return Saturday evening for food, drinks, live entertainment by the Bad Friends cover band and great company at the RAGBRAI Route Announcement Party. You’ll be among the first to hear the 2024 RAGBRAI route, which will be announced at the event’s culmination. Of note, while the Iowa Bike Expo is free, the Route Announcement Party is a ticketed event — so be sure to register today! Both events are hosted by the Iowa Bicycle Coalition.
LEARN MORE

Looking for more? Here’s a list of five free things to do in Downtown Des Moines in January and also in February.

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.