Downtown Des Moines Blog - Greater Des Moines Partnership

5 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Downtown DSM: May 15-21

Fri, 15 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is keeping the momentum going this May with a week full of events that range from high-energy nights out to feel-good community celebrations. You can catch a classic story brought to life on stage, spend an evening cheering on local talent or fill your night with live music from some seriously iconic bands. There are also opportunities to gather with the community, support meaningful causes and enjoy a few events that are guaranteed to make you smile. From a full weekend of plans to a single night out, here are five can’t-miss events happening in Downtown DSM May 15-21.

Top 5 Things to Do in Downtown DSM This Week: May 8-14

Fri, 08 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Things are picking up in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) this May, with a mix of events that bring together spring energy and early summer plans. This week is all about getting out, trying something a little different and finding easy ways to spend time Downtown.

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.

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.

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!

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.