What’s Happening in Downtown DSM This Week: Feb. 27 – March 5

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is closing out February and kicking off March with a week that hits all the right notes, from Broadway buzz and bold conversations to ballet, brainy trivia nights and hands-on science fun. Whether you’re in the mood for a Tony Award-winning musical, an inspiring speaker event, a night of dance that blends music and art or a casual Tuesday trivia showdown, there’s plenty happening in the heart of the city. It’s the kind of week where you can cheer, reflect, learn, compete and celebrate all within a few city blocks. Ready to plan your nights out for the week? Here are five can’t-miss events happening Feb. 27 – March 5 in Downtown DSM.

The Outsiders

Wednesday, Feb. 25 – Sunday, March 1, 2026 | Des Moines Civic Center
Stay gold, Downtown DSM. The 2024 Tony Award winner for Best Musical, The Outsiders, is lighting up the Civic Center stage with raw emotion, powerful choreography and a score that hits straight to the heart. Based on S.E. Hinton’s classic novel, the story follows Ponyboy, Johnny and the Greasers as they navigate identity, loyalty and belonging in 1967 Tulsa. It’s gritty, moving and deeply human. A show that balances heartbreak with hope. Whether you read the book in school or are seeing it for the first time, this production packs a punch and reminds you there’s still “lots of good in the world.”
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Ballet Des Moines: Nothing Holds Still

Thursday, Feb. 27 – Friday, Feb. 28, 2026 | Hoyt Sherman Place
If you’ve been craving something visually stunning and emotionally moving, Ballet Des Moines’ Nothing Holds Still delivers. This production explores change, motion and the beauty of fleeting moments through live music, original scores and striking collaborations. Expect new choreography, a world premiere work and partnerships with local artists that make the whole experience feel layered and alive. It’s contemporary ballet with depth and edge, staged inside the historic Hoyt Sherman Place. Two nights only, so don’t wait. This is the kind of performance that lingers with you long after the curtain falls.
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Girls in Science Festival

Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026 | Science Center of Iowa
Future engineers, scientists and innovators, this one’s for you! The Girls in Science Festival at the Science Center of Iowa is a full day of hands-on discovery celebrating women in STEM. Meet real-life role models, dive into interactive activities and explore how science shows up in everyday life. Workshops are available for deeper dives into specific topics, with registration happening onsite the day of the event. It’s empowering, educational and seriously fun. Bring the kids, bring your curiosity and prepare to leave inspired. Who knows? You might just meet the next generation of world changers.
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DJ Trivia

Tuesday, March 3, 2026 | Mad Meatball
If your random knowledge is begging for a spotlight moment, Trivia Tuesday at Mad Meatball is calling your name. Starting at 7:30 p.m., this free DJ Trivia night serves up brain teasers alongside hearty comfort food and drinks. Grab a table, round up your most competitive friends and prepare for questions that’ll make you feel brilliant one minute and humbled the next. It’s casual, lively and just the right midweek excuse to get out of the house. Bonus: Pizza + trivia bragging rights is an elite combo. Show up early, settle in and let the trivia battles begin.
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Capital City Pride Speaker Series: Brandon Wolf

Thursday, March 5, 2026 | Temple Theater
Looking for a night that inspires and challenges you in all the best ways? The Capital City Pride Speaker Series welcomes Brandon Wolf to Temple Theater for a powerful, timely conversation. As National Press Secretary for the Human Rights Campaign and a survivor of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy, Wolf brings a voice rooted in resilience, advocacy and hope. His insights on LGBTQ rights, racial justice and legislative action feel especially relevant during Iowa’s legislative session. Expect an evening that’s thoughtful, motivating and community-driven. Come ready to listen, reflect and leave feeling energized to be part of something bigger.
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March is bringing a fresh burst of energy to Downtown Des Moines (DSM), with free events, friendly faces and longer days that finally hint at spring.

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