What’s Happening This Week in Downtown DSM: Sept. 12-18

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is buzzing this week with a mix of creativity, fandom, fun runs and more. From guided tours that bring architecture and public art to life, to trivia nights that test your wits, to a massive three-day fan convention packed with costumes, celebrities and comics — there’s no shortage of energy in Downtown this week. Add in a race that pairs running with craft beer and a local taproom party to celebrate your finish line, and you’ve got a week full of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re an art lover, a trivia buff or a pop culture superfan, there’s so much to discover in Downtown DSM Sept. 12-18.

Architecture on the Move: Public Art Edition

Friday, Sept. 12, 2025 | Capital Square Atrium
Take your evening walk to the next level with this special edition of Architecture on the Move. Co-presented with the Greater Des Moines Public Art Foundation, this guided tour mixes iconic architecture with vibrant public art along the Principal Riverwalk. You’ll see everything from A Monumental Journey by Kerry James Marshall to Ricardo Gonzalez’s brand-new Always Together mural, alongside riverfront landmarks and historic architecture. Tours leave at 5:30 p.m. sharp from Capital Square, with check-in starting at 5 p.m. Don’t forget to wear comfy shoes so you can soak in every stop. A ticket is required for this special edition, so plan ahead and prepare for an evening that will leave you seeing Downtown DSM in a whole new way.
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You might also be interested in our blogs on Downtown DSM free public art murals, sculptures and fountains.

GalaxyCon

Friday, Sept. 12 – Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025 | Iowa Events Center
Attention cosplayers, gamers, comic book lovers and superfans — huzzah, GalaxyCon is here! From Sept. 12-14, the Iowa Events Center transforms into a three-day celebration of fandom. We’re talking 300+ hours of programming, from celebrity panels and Q&As to cosplay wrestling, costume contests, photo ops, fan-led workshops and even speed friending. Meet voice actors, creators, wrestlers and fellow fans while wandering through a space that’s equal parts entertainment and community. Whether you’re into anime, comics, Sci-Fi or all of the above, this is your chance to nerd out big time in Downtown DSM.
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Live Music: Madison Kolbet with Gemma Brice

Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025 | Plain Talk Books & Coffee
Saturday evening plans = sorted. Head to Plain Talk Books & Coffee for an intimate show featuring country singer-songwriters Madison Kolbet and Gemma Brice. The music kicks off at 5 p.m., bringing heartfelt lyrics, soulful vocals and cozy coffeehouse vibes together for the perfect end to your day. Grab your favorite latte, settle into the warm, laid-back atmosphere and let these talented artists soundtrack your Saturday night. If you’ve been craving a low-key evening filled with live music and community charm, this is exactly the spot to be.
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Find Your Speed 5K+10K

Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025 | SingleSpeed Brewing Co.
Beer + running? That’s the kind of race we can get behind. Find Your Speed 5K and 10K starts and ends at SingleSpeed Taproom in Downtown Des Moines. This race promises scenic courses, a fun crowd and a cold beer waiting for you at the finish line. Expect good vibes, live music and even a stein holding contest to prove just how strong your post-race grip really is. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just there for the atmosphere, you’ll be in good company with hundreds of other runners who like their miles served with hops. Lace up, run hard, then celebrate with the kind of finish line party that only a brewery can deliver.
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Pub Trivia Night

Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025 | Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co.
Need an excuse for midweek beers? Pub Trivia Night at Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Co. has you covered. Every Wednesday at 7 p.m., grab your sharpest friends (or at least the ones who know random facts) and put your brain to the test. Topics range from pop culture to history to “Wait, how do I even know that?” — with bragging rights and prizes on the line. Pair your guesses with a pint or some nachos and settle in for laughs, competition and maybe a surprising win. Win or lose, you’ll still walk away with good stories and a good time.
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September in Downtown DSM is serving up a calendar full of free events — high on energy, low on cost and packed with fun.

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.