What’s Happening in Downtown DSM This Week: May 30 – June 5

Summer energy is kicking into high gear in Downtown Des Moines (DSM)! From gravity-defying soapbox races and high-stakes half marathons to outdoor concerts, fan-favorite Broadway productions and the ultimate celebration of all things nerdy — this week is absolutely packed. Whether you’re catching a live set in a garden oasis, dressing up as your favorite comic book hero or just looking for a reason to stay out past sunset, Downtown DSM has your plans covered. Read on for five can’t-miss events that’ll help you round out May and roll into June with fun, flair and unforgettable vibes.

Music in the Garden Summer Concert Series

Thursday, June 5, 2025 | Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
If summer had a soundtrack, it’d probably sound a lot like this. Music in the Garden is back at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Center, and the first concert of the season features RetroSpect — a feel-good kickoff in one of the most beautiful settings Downtown DSM has to offer. Picture this: wood-fired pizza in one hand, a cold drink in the other and live music under the open sky surrounded by lush garden blooms. Doors open at 6 p.m. and music starts at 6:30 p.m., so bring a blanket or chair and settle in for a dreamy night in the Koehn Garden. Bonus: Tickets are available in advance this year, or you can snag a season pass and make this your weekly tradition.
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Red Bull Soapbox Race

Saturday, May 31, 2025 | Iowa State Capitol Grounds
Ready for chaos, creativity and maybe a few spectacular crashes? The Red Bull Soapbox Race is rolling into Downtown DSM and it’s just as wild as it sounds. Watch teams of daredevils and dreamers launch their homemade, non-motorized rides down the course with only gravity, guts and a whole lot of duct tape to keep them going. Expect big crowds, even bigger laughs and some seriously quirky designs. Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines or just here for the costumes, this high-energy event is one of the most entertaining ways to spend a Saturday.
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Photo Credit: © Red Bull Media House

EMC DAM to DSM Half Marathon

Saturday, May 31, 2025 | Finish Line + Post Race Party at Cowles Commons
Even if you’re not running, the vibes are strong for this iconic half marathon. The EMC DAM to DSM is back for its 46th year, taking runners from Saylorville Dam all the way to Downtown DSM. The real action? It’s at the finish line — spectators line the streets, cowbells in hand, cheering as runners make their final push across the Des Moines River and into Cowles Commons. Post-race, it’s time to party! Think food trucks, cold drinks and music filling the air. If you’re Downtown DSM on Saturday morning, you’ll feel the energy — trust us, it’s contagious.
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Des Moines Con

Friday, May 30 – Sunday, June 1, 2025 | Iowa Events Center
Calling all fandoms! Des Moines Con is back and taking over the Iowa Events Center with three full days of comics, cosplay, collectibles and all the pop culture love you can imagine. Whether you’re obsessed with superheroes, sci-fi, fantasy or retro video games, this convention offers all different kinds of nerdy fun. Don your best costume, snap selfies with celebs and creators, shop from hundreds of vendors and connect with fellow fans. If you’ve been waiting for a reason to let your geek flag fly — this is it.
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Hamilton

Tuesday, June 3 – Sunday, June 15, 2025 | Des Moines Civic Center
Yes, that Hamilton. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s award-winning cultural phenomenon hits the Civic Center stage starting this week—and if you’ve never seen it live (or even if you have), this is your chance. With its electrifying blend of history, hip-hop and Broadway brilliance, Hamilton tells the story of Alexander Hamilton like you’ve never heard it before. The music, the choreography, the storytelling — it’s all next level. Snag your tickets early because this show always sells out fast. You’ll be singing along to “My Shot” before the curtain even falls.
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Don’t miss the June roundup of free things to do in Downtown DSM — because fun doesn't have to cost a thing!

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.