What’s Happening in Downtown DSM This Week: Oct. 17-23

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is buzzing with creativity, community and celebration this week, and you’re invited to be part of it all. From a cutting-edge mural festival that blends art and augmented reality, to milestone celebrations, marathons, family-friendly wellness walks and a lineup of live shows that bring the energy all week long, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of mid-October. Whether you’re lacing up your running shoes, stepping into a retro party or watching public art come alive, Downtown DSM has something exciting waiting around every corner. Keep reading to discover five can’t-miss events happening Oct. 17-23!

Live Shows at Wooly’s

Various Days & Times | Wooly’s
Wooly’s keeps the good times rolling all week with a lineup as eclectic as it is electric. From funky sax to indie folk, hardcore and alt-pop, each show brings its own unique sound and style to the stage. Located in the Historic East Village, Wooly’s is a Downtown DSM staple for live music lovers — so grab a ticket, rally your crew and make a night (or four) of it. Upcoming shows this week:

• Saxsquatch – Friday, Oct. 17
• Sons of the East – Sunday, Oct. 19
• Peelingflesh – Wednesday, Oct. 22
• Petey USA – Thursday, Oct. 23

LEARN MORE

 

Turn It On! Mural Festival

Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025 | 901 Grand Avenue
Downtown DSM is about to get a serious splash of color! Internationally acclaimed Dutch artist Leon Keer is transforming 901 Grand Avenue with an 8,000+ square foot anamorphic mural that blends hyper-realism with augmented reality. Using the free Greater Des Moines Public Art Foundation app, the mural literally comes to life in front of your eyes — no special glasses required. The piece celebrates Iowa’s landscapes and heritage with vintage TVs broadcasting curated scenes from local cultural partners. Be among the first to experience this groundbreaking mural at the Turn It On! Mural Festival, happening this Saturday from 1-3 p.m. It’s free, family-friendly and a sneak peek into Downtown DSM’s future mural strategy.
LEARN MORE

 

SCI’s Big Blast: 55 Years of Science & Celebration

Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025 | Science Center of Iowa
Retro outfits, specialty cocktails and hands-on science? Yes, please. Celebrate 55 years of the Science Center of Iowa at BIG BLAST, an adults-only throwback bash filled with immersive experiences. Enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres, desserts from local favorites, complimentary wine, 1970s-style beer, a groovy signature cocktail, a silent auction and plenty of nostalgic vibes. It’s part party, part fundraiser, part time machine and all unforgettable. Grab your tickets, your velvet blazer or metallic jumpsuit and get ready to toast to five-plus decades of SCI magic.
LEARN MORE

 

IMT Des Moines Marathon

Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025 | Various Downtown DSM Locations
Cheer them on or join the pack — either way, you’ll feel the energy. The IMT Des Moines Marathon takes over the city this Sunday with scenic routes that weave through vibrant neighborhoods, university campuses, city parks and past the skyline. Even if you’re not running, bring a sign, some noisemakers and soak up the finish line energy on Court Avenue, where runners cross triumphantly into the Historic Court District. It’s one of the best spectator moments of the year, so don’t miss your chance to be part of the excitement.
LEARN MORE

 

Iowa’s Healthiest State Initiative 1-Mile Walk

Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025 | Various Downtown DSM Locations
The Healthiest State Initiative 1-Mile Walk, presented by HealthPartners, joins the marathon weekend fun with a family-friendly, untimed walk designed for all ages and abilities. Whether you’re warming up for a race or just want to get moving with friends, it’s a great way to be part of Iowa’s statewide push for a healthier future. There’s also a virtual option, so you can join the movement from anywhere. It’s the perfect low-pressure way to experience the weekend’s energy in Downtown DSM — one mile at a time.
LEARN MORE

October in Downtown DSM is shaping up to be unforgettable, with a lineup of free events that will keep the good times rolling.

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.