What’s Happening Halloween Week in Downtown DSM: Oct. 24-30

Halloween week is here, and Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is coming alive with fall fun, festive flair and a few spooky surprises. Whether you’re in the mood for family-friendly trick-or-treating, live jazz, local art or one last stroll through the Downtown Farmers’ Market before it wraps for the season, this week’s lineup brings all the cozy, creative and community vibes. You’ll find everything from costumes and candy to culture and concerts — plus a few treats you won’t want to miss. Keep reading for five can’t-miss events happening Oct. 24-30 in Downtown DSM. Get ready to soak up every bit of the city’s fall magic!

SEASON FINALE: Downtown Farmers’ Market

Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025 | Historic Court District
It’s your last chance to wander and shop the Downtown Farmers’ Market before it wraps up its 50th season! Celebrate one final Saturday morning in the Historic Court District surrounded by fresh produce, artisanal goods and the best breakfast burritos in town. Kids are encouraged to dress up for a festive Farmers’ Market Trick-or-Treat, where vendors will hand out candy and smiles. And don’t forget to mark your calendar for the Winter Farmers’ Market, returning Nov. 21-23 at the EMC Expo Center. But first, grab your coffee, toss on a cozy sweater and enjoy one last morning of local love in Downtown DSM.
LEARN MORE

Goldie’s Halloween Bash

Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025 | Iowa State Historical Museum
Calling all little ghouls and goblins — Goldie’s Halloween Bash is back for another year of spooky, not-so-scary fun! Drop in anytime between 3 and 5 p.m. for a free afternoon packed with activities like a museum scavenger hunt, hands-on crafts (apple stamp pumpkins, anyone?) and story time that’s more sweet than spooky. Kids can share their best Beggars’ Night jokes, collect treats from Baratta’s and even see Goldie in costume. Costumes are encouraged, admission is free and no registration is required. Just bring your Halloween spirit (and an adult to tag along!).
LEARN MORE

 

Des Moines Jazz Hall of Fame

Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025 | Noce
Every great city has its jazz legends, and this weekend, Downtown DSM honors its own. The Community Jazz Center of Greater Des Moines celebrates 25 years of music and mentorship with its annual Jazz Hall of Fame and Special Recognition Awards at Noce. Enjoy performances from this year’s honorees, including trombonist Paul McKee and guitarist Willie Shay, plus special guests and past inductees. The evening kicks off at 5 p.m. with a reception and dinner, followed by the awards ceremony at 6 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door, with proceeds supporting youth music programs. Come celebrate the sound — and soul — of Des Moines jazz.
LEARN MORE

 

Halloween on the Hill

Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025 | Historic Sherman Hill Neighborhood
One of Downtown Des Moines’ most beloved Halloween traditions returns as the Historic Sherman Hill Neighborhood transforms into a haunted wonderland for Halloween on the Hill. Wander through elaborately decorated historic homes, enjoy spooky street performances — including a live Thriller dance — and meet the friendly frights that make this neighborhood famous. Admission is free, but visitors are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food donation for DMARC’s Food Pantry. Pick up a map at Hoyt Sherman Place or 15th & Center Street to find the best displays. Expect ghosts, goblins, food vendors, hot cocoa and even a seven-foot Frankenstein sighting. You won’t want to miss this Halloween favorite!
LEARN MORE

Halloween at the BOOtanical Garden

Now – Friday, Oct. 31, 2025 | Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is officially in its spooky season glow-up, transforming into the BOOtanical Garden all October long. With themed workshops, hauntingly fun events and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone. Check out Boos & Brews (21+) on Friday, Oct. 24 for brewery samples and a DJ set or bring the whole crew for Trick or Trees on Saturday, Oct. 25, a daytime celebration filled with costumes, magic shows and hands-on fun. For something totally new, don’t miss Eerie Evenings during Oct. 25-31 — when the dome lights up for a surreal, after-dark stroll among glowing greenery.
LEARN MORE

Craving more chills and thrills? Don’t miss Secrets & Shadows at Rollins Mansion this Thursday, Oct. 24, 2025 taking place just outside of Downtown DSM.

Get ready, get set — Downtown DSM has a full lineup of free events that'll make this October unforgettable. Let’s go!

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.