Mask Up or Go Virtual to Ring in 2021

It’s been quite a year, and you might be wondering the best way to send off 2020. We’ve put together a list of events that allow for safely celebrating New Year’s Eve in Greater Des Moines (DSM).

Virtual New Year’s Eve Events

It’s perfectly fine to get dressed up, pour a glass of champagne and enjoy the ball drop from home! Toast to the end of this year in a new way by attending virtual events like the ones below from the comfort of your own home — a cozy way to enjoy the festivities.

Des Moines Playhouse Party in a Box

As mentioned in this previous blog post, the Des Moines Playhouse is offering two Playhouse Party in a Box packages — one for the adults and one for the kids — complete with a link to the Playhouse New Year’s Eve celebration and balloon drop.

Symphony New Year’s Eve Celebration

The Des Moines Symphony will host a one-hour virtual show online at 7 p.m. Thursday, December 31. The celebration will be hosted by Kevin and Mollie Cooney, with guest artists like Leslie Odom Jr., Renee Elise Goldsberry and more. The event is free to watch, but a contribution is encouraged. When you become an Event Supporter, you can also join the event prior to the main broadcast for a Musician Meet and Greet.

Mask Up + Social Distance to Celebrate

Events are still happening in person, too, with businesses asking attendees to take precautions when celebrating.

Ice Skating at Brenton Skating Plaza

Reserve an ice skating session at Brenton Skating Plaza on Thursday, December 31. Sessions are available for a limited number of people from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., 1:30 - 3 p.m., 3:30 - 5 p.m., 5:30 - 7 p.m., 7:30 - 9 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. - Midnight. Check the FAQ page for more information.

Mild Party at Noce

Kiss 2020 goodbye at Noce Jazz and Caberet’s Mild Party, beginning at 8 p.m. Thursday, December 31. If the current proclamation is extended, the timeline will move up by two hours. Enjoy cocktail hour, music, a three-course dinner and more. Masks are required in the front room and tables will be distanced during dinner.

Countdown to Extinction at SCI

The Science Center of Iowa will hold their NYE 2020: Countdown to Extinction party to acknowledge an unprecedented year and explore Earth’s rapidly changing climate. Celebration time slots can be reserved ahead of time, either from 9 a.m. until Noon or from 1-4 p.m. Due to COVID-19, in place of a balloon drop, there will be a massive “asteroid impact” during each time slot at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Face coverings are required for ages two and up.

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is a growing, vibrant community that offers the energy, sophistication, housing and attractions of a burgeoning city with a brilliant future. It’s also easy to visit with plentiful and affordable street and ramp parking options.