Downtown Des Moines Blog - Greater Des Moines Partnership

5 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Downtown DSM: May 1-7

Fri, 01 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

May is kicking off in Downtown Des Moines (DSM), and it’s bringing a fresh mix of events that feel like a true start to the season. This week is all about getting outside, exploring local favorites and settling back into those weekend routines we’ve been waiting for. You can spend a Saturday morning Downtown, catch a baseball game with the family or plan an evening out with live music and a crowd that’s ready to enjoy it. There’s also a chance to look up — literally — and experience something a little different. Whether you’re planning ahead or just seeing where the week takes you, here are five can’t-miss events happening in Downtown DSM May 1-7.

5 Free Things to Do in Downtown Des Moines — May Edition

Fri, 01 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The best time of the year is finally here in Downtown Des Moines (DSM)! As spring transitions to summer, local favorites ranging from cultural festivals to farmers’ markets return for the season. Be sure to take advantage of these five fun and FREE Downtown DSM festivals, events and things to do throughout the month of May.

Mission Cancer + Blood: From the Heart of Downtown Des Moines to a Statewide Cancer Care Network

Fri, 01 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Greater Des Moines (DSM) is known for many things — insurance, economic development, being a top 10 U.S. city for Gen Z workers and more recently, as a hub for cancer care and expertise. For nearly 45 years, patients and families across Des Moines and Central Iowa have trusted Mission Cancer + Blood for their cancer care, and more than 300 oncologists, advanced practice providers (APPs), nurses, care teams and administrative professionals have chosen to practice in the communities they call home.

Opening Day at the 2026 Downtown Farmers' Market: What to See, Eat and Do

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The Downtown Farmers' Market is back this weekend!

Live Music This Week in DSM: April 28 – May 3, 2026

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This week’s lineup of musical acts in Greater Des Moines (DSM) includes Arcy Drive, clovers daughter with ghostwives, CeCe Stewart, Recoil, Rivieras and Banjo Kat. Cheer on a sports team, shop local or visit your favorite attraction or event before or after enjoying the best live music in DSM.

Top 5 Things to Do in Downtown DSM This Week: April 24-30

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The last week of April is a great time to get out and try something new. Downtown Des Moines (DSM) has a handful of events that are easy to drop into, whether you’re planning ahead or just seeing where the weekend takes you. You can spend time outside under the night sky, find something fun for the kids or mix in a little creativity with a hands-on experience. There are also opportunities to gather with friends, enjoy a relaxed afternoon and try something a little different. If your calendar has some open space, here are five can’t-miss events happening in Downtown DSM April 24-30.

Live Music This Week in DSM: April 21 – 26, 2026

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This week’s lineup of musical acts in Greater Des Moines (DSM) includes Clarksville Station, Chris Falcon, Haunted Like Human, Taylor King, Look At Me and Al Welsh. Cheer on a sports team, shop local or visit your favorite attraction or event before or after enjoying the best live music in DSM.

Top 5 Things to Do in Downtown DSM This Week: April 17-23

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Spring has sprung in Downtown Des Moines (DSM), and the week of April 17-23 is packed with ways to get out and be part of the action. From one of the city’s most iconic annual traditions to hands-on, family-friendly events and live performances, there’s a great mix of experiences happening across Downtown DSM. You can spend time outdoors celebrating the season, cheer on participants at a high-energy community event or explore something new with friends or family. Whether you’re planning your weekend or just looking for something to add to your week, there’s plenty worth checking out. Keep reading for five can’t-miss events happening in Downtown DSM this week.

Live Music This Week in DSM: April 7 – 12, 2026

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This week’s lineup of musical acts in Greater Des Moines (DSM) includes Dale Menning & The Stardusters, Zane Gedler & Co., Wave Cage, Plastic Apartment, Jeff Banks Band and Jeni Grouws. Cheer on a sports team, shop local or visit your favorite attraction or event before or after enjoying the best live music in DSM.

5 Free Things to Do in Downtown Des Moines — April Edition

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Spring is here in Downtown Des Moines (DSM). Explore these five Downtown DSM free things to do in April, including both indoor and outdoor ideas!