What’s Happening Downtown DSM: 5 Events You’ll Love: Feb. 13-19

Love is in the air, and so is the sound of blues guitar riffs, clinking pint glasses and fuzzy-costumed cyclists pedaling through Downtown Des Moines (DSM). This week is bringing all the vibes: romantic dinners, high-energy concerts, quirky traditions and a healthy dose of red flannel. Whether you’re a foodie looking to pair your pasta with the perfect brew, a runner ready to embrace the cold in style or someone who just loves a good dance party for a cause, the perfect way to spend your week is in the heart of the city. Downtown DSM is buzzing with energy, and you don’t want to miss out. Keep scrolling for five events that will warm up your February in all the best ways.

Winter Blues Fest

Friday, Feb. 13 – Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026 | Des Moines Marriott Downtown
Winter Blues Fest is back, and it’s bringing 20+ acts, five stages and two nights of wall-to-wall music under one cozy roof. Held entirely inside the Des Moines Marriott Downtown, this midwinter tradition turns up the heat with dancing, drinks and bluesy grooves that go late into the night. Grab a drink, hit the dance floor or just jam out with friends to local legends and national names. Whether you’re a die-hard blues fan or just need an excuse to shake off winter, this is your ticket to good times and great music. General admission gets you into everything, and the lineup is everything! We’re talking Nikki Hill, Kings of Blues, Chris Cain, Kevin Burt and more.
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Valentine’s Day Beer Dinner

Friday, Feb. 13 – Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026 | Exile Brewing Company
Love is brewing at Exile! This year’s Valentine’s Day Beer Dinner is a four-course culinary adventure paired with some of the brewery’s best pours. We’re talking seared scallops, house made pasta, ossobuco and a rich Budino dessert, each matched with a beer that complements every bite. Expect tasting notes, toasts and a few surprises from the Exile team. You might even make new friends at your table, since it’s all about community here. Space is limited, so get your tickets today. Come for the food, stay for the stories. You never know, you might leave with a new favorite brew.
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Valentine’s Day Dinner

Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026 | Ceviche Bar
Looking for a dinner date with serious flavor? Book your Valentine’s night at Ceviche Bar for a three-course experience that’s as romantic as it is delicious. For $70, you and your date get two handcrafted cocktails, a shared starter, two entrees and dessert to seal the deal. This is the kind of cozy, low-lit dinner that hits all the right notes, perfect for date night or even a bestie dinner if romance isn’t your thing. Spots fill up quick, so snag that reservation before it’s gone. Because nothing says “I adore you” like ceviche and cocktails.
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37th Annual Red Flannel Run

Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026 | Wellmark YMCA
Throw on your warmest plaid and get ready to run, jog or strut your stuff at the 37th Annual Red Flannel Run. This beloved tradition blends fitness and fun with 5K, 10K and 1-Mile Family Fun Run options — and yes, dogs are welcome too! Whether you’re clocking your fastest time or just in it for the costumes, this YMCA fundraiser brings the community together with high energy, great energy and lots of red flannel. Bonus points for creativity (plaid onesies encouraged). Proceeds support the Y’s mission to build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
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The Fur Ride

Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026 | Ricochet to Big Grove Brewery
Ready for a wild ride? The Fur Ride is part bike cruise, part costume party and all heart. Grab your favorite faux fur, hop on your bike and meet at Ricochet for games, drinks and a pre-ride party. At 1 p.m., the crew pedals just under two miles to Big Grove Brewery for live music from The Guilty Pleasures, contests, prizes and a full-on dance party. Don’t want to bike? No problem, just RSVP to join the party at Big Grove. Proceeds benefit cancer survivors and caregivers, so whether you ride or just show up to boogie, it’s all for a great cause.
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Who says winter has to be dull? February in Downtown DSM is full of free fun that’ll help you beat the blahs and find something new to love.

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