Downtown Des Moines Blog - Greater Des Moines Partnership

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.

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!

Your Guide to Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Downtown DSM: April 3-9

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

April is settling into Downtown Des Moines (DSM), and this week brings a mix of live entertainment, unique shopping and can’t-miss experiences worth adding to your calendar. You can spend an evening listening to live music with a drink in hand, browse a vintage market packed with one-of-a-kind finds or hear from a bestselling author whose stories have captured audiences around the world. There’s also a comedy show guaranteed to bring the laughs and a live band karaoke night that puts you front and center on stage. Keep reading for five can’t-miss events happening in Downtown DSM, April 3-9.

5 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Downtown DSM: March 27 – April 2

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is closing out March and kicking off April with a lineup that’s anything but ordinary. This week brings a mix of big events, nostalgic throwbacks and a few experiences you won’t find just anywhere. You can dive into a massive collector convention, catch a classic film brought to life with a full symphony or step into a cosmic-themed night out that’s part dance party, part science adventure. Families can get in on the fun, too, with a hockey game built just for kids, while curious explorers can uncover a different side of the city through a self-guided audio tour.

5 Downtown DSM Events You Won’t Want to Miss: March 20-26

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Spring is starting to show its face in Downtown Des Moines (DSM), and the week of March 20-26 is packed with reasons to get out and enjoy the city. From fast-paced hockey and basketball games to live music, immersive game nights and glowing evenings inside a tropical conservatory, this week is full of fun things to check out around Downtown DSM. You can cheer on hometown teams at Casey’s Center, test your detective skills in a dramatic social deduction game or unwind under the warm lights of the Botanical Garden dome. Keep reading for five can’t-miss events happening this week.

5 Can’t-Miss Downtown DSM Events to Add to Your Calendar: March 13-19

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is gearing up for a week that’s big on energy and even bigger on fun. From prehistoric adventures and powerful live music to symphony performances and basketball showdowns, there’s a little bit of everything happening across the city March 13-19.

5 Can’t-Miss Things in Downtown DSM: March 6-12

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

March is officially in its “spring is around the corner” era, and Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is more than ready. This week brings big laughs, bold flavors, live music with a mission and even a little friendly competition to get you out and about!

5 Free Things to Do in Downtown DSM in March

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is a great place to be year-round — and it’s affordable, too! This month, take a look at these five totally free events and things to do in Downtown Des Moines.

What’s Happening in Downtown DSM This Week: Feb. 27 – March 5

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is closing out February and kicking off March with a week that hits all the right notes, from Broadway buzz and bold conversations to ballet, brainy trivia nights and hands-on science fun. Whether you’re in the mood for a Tony Award-winning musical, an inspiring speaker event, a night of dance that blends music and art or a casual Tuesday trivia showdown, there’s plenty happening in the heart of the city. It’s the kind of week where you can cheer, reflect, learn, compete and celebrate all within a few city blocks. Ready to plan your nights out for the week? Here are five can’t-miss events happening Feb. 27 – March 5 in Downtown DSM.

12 Places to Celebrate National Margarita Day in Downtown Des Moines

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Whether you’re looking for a margarita that’s shaken, stirred or frozen — Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is the place to be for National Margarita Day on Feb. 22! These Downtown DSM restaurants and nightlife venues have a broad range of tequilas and flavors to make your margarita dreams come true so try them on or around National Margarita Day!