Your Weekly Downtown DSM Can’t-Miss Events: June 13–19
Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is turning up the summer energy this week with a mix of music, celebration and events that bring the community together in all the best ways. From a heartfelt theater performance and a rooftop wine fest to food truck lunches, Father’s Day fun and a meaningful Juneteenth celebration — there’s something to experience nearly every day of the week. Whether you’re chasing sunshine, culture or just looking for a reason to get out and about, these five Downtown DSM events will help you make the most of June 13-19. Let’s dive in!
Torch Song by Harvey Fierstein
Friday, June 6 – Sunday, June 15, 2025 | Stoner Theater
Grab the tissues and prepare to laugh (and maybe cry) at Torch Song, the revival of Harvey Fierstein’s iconic Torch Song Trilogy. The story follows Arnold, a sharp-witted, torch song-singing, Jewish drag queen on a journey to find love, family and a pair of bunny slippers that actually fit. With nine performances to choose from, it’s the perfect time to experience this heartfelt, hilarious and beautifully human tale live at Stoner Theater. Expect witty one-liners, tender moments and a reminder that sometimes what we want most — respect — takes the longest to earn.
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Sips in the City by WineFest Des Moines
Friday, June 13, 2025 | Ruan Center
Sips in the City is your Friday night party pass! This WineFest fan favorite is back at the Ruan Center with everything you love about summer nights in Downtown DSM — great wine, upbeat tunes, amazing food and an electric crowd. Try wines, seltzers, spritzes and more, or upgrade to VIP for early entry, exclusive pours, hors d’oeuvres and access to the Farm Bureau Financial Services Wealth Management Lounge. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just here for the good vibes, this 21+ event is a summer standout.
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Music Under the Stars
Sunday, June 15, 2025 | Hoyt Sherman Place
It’s time to take Dad out for a night he won’t forget! Music Under the Stars returns with its free summer concert series — and this one’s all about dads and their little princesses. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, pack a picnic and enjoy live music under the open sky. Featuring vocalists Abby Kate Boeschen and Gina Gedler, this special Father’s Day edition promises classic tunes, family-friendly fun and a magical atmosphere at Hoyt Sherman Place. The music starts at 7 p.m., but you’ll want to arrive early to claim your spot!
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Looking for more ways to enjoy the outdoors in Downtown DSM this week? Join an architect-guided Architecture on the Move walking tour this Friday — and mark your calendar for more dates coming in August, September and October!
Out to Lunch
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | Ruan Center
Lunchtime just got a serious glow-up. Out to Lunch is back this Wednesday, and it’s the perfect excuse to step away from your desk. Head over to Locust Street for live music from Days Live Music and an incredible lineup of local food trucks — think Jethro’s Express, Street Sweets, Cajun Belle and more. Whether you’re Downtown for work or play, grab a bite, catch some tunes and soak up those sweet summer vibes in the heart of the city. It’s free, it’s fun and it’s your Wednesday reset.
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Juneteenth Jubilee
Thursday, June 19, 2025 | State Historical Building
Celebrate freedom, community and culture at the Juneteenth Jubilee. Held at the State Historical Building, this powerful evening honors Iowa’s Black history and future with music, recognition of local leaders, a student scholarship ceremony and a thought-provoking community forum. Add in Bethany Elle’s musical performance, light refreshments and a historical display — and you’ve got a meaningful night you won’t want to miss. Doors open at 5 p.m. for networking before the banquet kicks off at 6 p.m. Tickets are $35 per person. Come for the history, stay for the celebration.
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Ready for more free fun? This month’s Downtown DSM roundup is packed with no-cost ways to get out and enjoy the city in June.
Looking to discover even more? Check out these can’t-miss events happening just outside of Downtown DSM this week:
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.
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DSM USA is the regional identifier for Greater Des Moines (DSM). DSM USA is a bold statement to the world: This is a welcoming, diverse and vibrant community with affordable and accessible amenities for residents and businesses. This regional identifier is the result of significant quantitative and qualitative research.
The Partnership will champion the DSM USA message, and encourages its Investors, its more than 6,700 Regional Business Members and DSM USA Ambassadors to help share the region's story with One Voice.