This Week’s Can’t-Miss Events in Downtown DSM | Spring Vibes + Mother’s Day Fun

From ballgames under the lights to paint-splattered celebrations and botanical bliss, Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is buzzing with springtime energy this week. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect Mother’s Day plans, shopping for native plants with your iced coffee in hand or cheering on relay racers as they sprint through the finish line, this lineup brings something a little special for every kind of weekend vibe. Artists are opening their studios, baseball is taking over Principal Park and fresh blooms are popping up in more ways than one. Ready to soak it all in? Scroll on for five can’t-miss happenings in Downtown DSM this week that’ll keep your calendar full and your spring spirit soaring.

Spring Garden Market

Thursday, May 8 – Sunday, May 11, 2025 | Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
The Spring Garden Market is your one-stop shop for gorgeous greenery, garden tools, artsy finds and plant parent inspiration. Whether you’re a first-time fern mom or a veteran veggie grower, you’ll find hand-picked plants perfect for central Iowa soil — plus pro tips from the Botanical Garden’s horticulturists. Expect refreshments, art and some of the prettiest shopping views in town. Pro tip: Come early in the weekend for the best plant selection, then come back with your mom on Sunday (it’s free admission for moms on Mother’s Day!). Presented by Country Landscapes, this is one plant party you’ll definitely want to put on your calendar.
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Iowa Hawkeyes Des Moines Baseball Series

Friday, May 9 – Sunday, May 11, 2025 | Principal Park
The Hawkeyes are headed back to Downtown DSM, and they’re bringing the heat to Principal Park in a three-game series against the Oregon State Beavers. It’s not just baseball — it’s a mini homecoming for local athletes and a weekend full of team spirit. Doors open early Friday and Saturday for meet-and-greets with the Iowa squad, so come snag an autograph before first pitch! With great seats, ballpark snacks and skyline views, it’s the perfect way to kick off Mother’s Day weekend. Bonus: Ticket proceeds support Hawkeye baseball, so you can cheer loud and feel good doing it.
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Market to Market Relay Iowa Finish Line & Post-Race Celebration

Saturday, May 10, 2025 | Historic East Village
Seventy-ish miles. One wild day. Dozens of costumes. The Market to Market Relay Iowa is part run, part road trip and all about team vibes. Runners start in Jefferson and tag-team their way across central Iowa, with the final stage taking them into Downtown DSM — from Gray’s Lake to the finish line on the Union Railway Red Bridge. That’s where the celebration kicks off: a high-energy post-race party in the Historic East Village. Even if you’re not running, the finish line is the place to be. Grab a drink, find a patio seat, cheer on costumed runners as they make their grand finale and soak in the electric atmosphere of one of Iowa’s most unforgettable race days.
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Spring Open Studio

Saturday, May 10, 2025 | The Fitch Building
Art lovers, this one’s for you. The Fitch Building’s Spring Open Studio event is back, and it’s your chance to step inside the creative spaces of local painters, photographers, printmakers, sculptors and more. Wander through open studios, chat with artists, admire in-progress works (or even buy a few!) and soak in the energy of one of Downtown DSM’s coolest artist communities. No ticket needed — RSVP online if you’d like or just show up ready to explore. Whether you’re an art collector or just love a good peek behind the curtain, this laid-back Saturday event is always full of surprises.
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Mother’s Day Events

Various Dates & Locations in Downtown DSM
Treat the moms in your life (or yourself — we see you!) to a Downtown DSM Mother’s Day weekend filled with food, flowers and fun. Whether she’s into painting, pastries or patio brunching, there’s something special going on:

• Mother’s Day Bouquet: Cupcake Decorating Class – Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Molly’s Frozen
• Mothers’ Day Dine-In Brunch or Take + Bake Brunch To-Go – Saturday, May 10 & Sunday, May 11, 2025 at Mulberry Street Tavern
• Mother’s Day Live Music & Brunch – Sunday, May 11, 2025 at Truman’s
• Mother's Day Bouquet Bar – Sunday, May 11, 2025 at Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
• Mother’s Day Paint & Sip – Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at Confluence Brewing Co.
• Mother’s Day Drag Brunch Party – Saturday, May 17, 2025 at The Garden

Celebrate her the way she deserves — with fun, flair and maybe a mimosa or two.

Don’t miss this May roundup of free things to do in Downtown DSM for budget-friendly fun!

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.