Soak Up the Sun: 5 Free Things to Do in Downtown Des Moines in August

Soak up the sun with these free things to do in Downtown Des Moines this August! A parade, a cultural food and music festival, incredible skyline views, shopping, volunteering — it’s about to be an epic month in Downtown Des Moines.

Don’t Miss the Fair Parade in Downtown Des Moines

Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025 | Downtown Des Moines
You won’t want to miss this beloved tradition! The Iowa State Fair parade in Downtown Des Moines is free and welcoming to all. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket to sit on while you enjoy the sights of around 200 parade entries ranging from floats to vehicles, performers to animals, even novelties you’ve just got to see for yourself! The parade route runs from the Iowa State Capitol Complex heading west along Grand Avenue to 15th Street. See you there!

Season Your Ear Drums at World Food & Music Festival

Friday, Aug. 22 – Sunday, Aug. 24, 2025 | Western Gateway Park
Take a trip around the world without leaving DSM with a visit to the World Food & Music Festival! This free Downtown Des Moines festival is celebrating its 21st anniversary this year, with more than 50 food vendors representing 23 countries from across the globe. A full stage line-up of cultural music and dance will keep you vibin’ all weekend long.

Find the Best Downtown Des Moines Skyline Views

With back to school just around the corner, take advantage of the sights of Downtown Des Moines and the warm summertime weather! Check out this bucket list of great places for Downtown Des Moines views (Hint: Make it a family-friendly scavenger hunt!)

Window Shop ‘Til You Drop

When’s the last time you strolled around the streets and the shops of the Historic East Village in Downtown Des Moines? There have been tons of new developments in the neighborhood recently, and stores both old and new are waiting for you to give ‘em a wave from the sidewalk. (Oh, who are we kidding … we hope you’ll pop into the stores and buy a thing or two, but looks from the window are free so don’t think on it too hard. Just give it a go!)

Find Volunteer Opportunities in Downtown Des Moines

Finding ways to engage with community service in Downtown Des Moines is just a few clicks away. Visit the United Way of Central Iowa website to view volunteering opportunities near Downtown Des Moines, including venues like Central Library, Science Center of Iowa and even hospitals including Broadlawns, UnityPoint and MercyOne. Additionally, the Downtown Farmers' Market's Meals from The Market program and World Food & Music Festival are also in need of volunteers.

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.