What to Do in Downtown DSM This Week: Nov. 14-20
The holiday season is starting to sparkle, and Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is serving up festive lights, live music, gallery nights and holiday pop-ups. Whether you’re in the mood to slow down and take in meaningful art, lace up your dancing shoes, sip a festive cocktail or rock out to a legendary album performed live, this week’s lineup has you covered. You’ll find cozy lights, creative energy and enough holiday magic to start (or restart) your seasonal spirit. From Nov. 14-20, make room in your calendar for five fun, can’t miss events happening right in the heart of Downtown DSM.
Tinsel
Now – Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026 | Either/Or
Step into a holiday vibe that’s part nostalgic, part magical and 100% ready for your Instagram feed. Tinsel is back at Either/Or, turning the bar into a cozy holiday haven with festive décor, creative seasonal cocktails, themed events and a menu full of comfort food and cheer. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are your best bet if you want a guaranteed seat in the holiday glow. Whether you’re meeting up with friends or just soaking up the twinkle lights solo, this is the Downtown pop-up you don’t want to miss.
LEARN MORE
November Swing Dance
Friday, Nov. 14, 2025 | Mainframe Studios
Live music. Jazz energy. Twirls. Laughter. The November Swing Dance at Mainframe Studios is pure joy. Don’t worry if you’re not a pro, a beginner-friendly lesson kicks off the night at 7:15 p.m., followed by live tunes from Junction Jazz Society and open dancing from 8-10:30 p.m. No partner required, no pressure, just a great time. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone who lives for a good Lindy Hop, this is your excuse to dress up a little, let loose and make some dance floor memories.
LEARN MORE
The Black Jacket Symphony Presents AC/DC Back in Black
Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025 | Hoyt Sherman Place
Ready to rock? The Black Jacket Symphony is bringing AC/DC’s legendary Back in Black album to life — note for note, track by track — with a full set of AC/DC hits to follow. This isn’t your average tribute show. It’s a polished, powerful, sonic replica that recreates every sound, riff and roar just like you remember. If you’ve never been to a Black Jacket show, this is the one to start with. And if you have? You already know you’ll want to go again.
LEARN MORE
Dome for the Holidays
Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025 – Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026 | Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Take a break from the cold and step into a glowing tropical paradise! Dome for the Holidays returns to the Botanical Garden with twinkling lights, lush greenery and cozy holiday vibes. From their beloved gnome hunt and seasonal snacks to sparkling photo ops and all-new Igloo Experiences, this is a warm-weather winter tradition worth making room for. It’s festive, it’s family-friendly and it feels like a mini escape right in the middle of Downtown DSM. Get your tickets early, this one fills up fast!
LEARN MORE
Want to enjoy November without spending a dime? Downtown DSM has plenty of free fun in store this month.
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.
Greater Des Moines Partnership
DSM USA is the regional identifier for Greater Des Moines (DSM). DSM USA is a bold statement to the world: This is a welcoming, diverse and vibrant community with affordable and accessible amenities for residents and businesses. This regional identifier is the result of significant quantitative and qualitative research.
The Partnership will champion the DSM USA message, and encourages its Investors, its more than 7,200 Regional Business Members to help share the region's story with One Voice.