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.

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!

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.

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.

Your Weekly Downtown DSM Plan: Jan. 23-29 Events

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

January might be winding down, but Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is heating up with a fresh lineup of events to keep the winter blues at bay. This week brings a fun mix of live music, indoor markets and flavorful experiences — from wine and chocolate pairings to throwback tribute shows. Whether you’re a longtime cycling fan, a local shopping enthusiast or just looking for an excuse to get out of the house, there’s something happening to match your vibe. You can browse one-of-a-kind goods, catch a rock concert, toast to local flavors or start planning your next biking adventure. Scroll on for five can’t-miss things to do in Downtown DSM from Jan. 23-29.

Can’t-Miss Holiday Things This Week in Downtown DSM: Dec. 19-25

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is serving up one more week of festive fun before Christmas arrives! Whether you’re squeezing in a few last-minute holiday photos with Santa, watching the sky light up with drones, sipping cocoa in a historic hall or rallying your crew for an epic bar crawl, there’s no shortage of merry moments to make your week extra bright. Family-friendly fun, holiday traditions, local shopping and spirited nightlife all collide in Downtown DSM this week. Keep reading for five can’t-miss ways to soak up the season before the final presents are wrapped and the cookies are devoured.

Holiday Magic Awaits: 5 Downtown DSM Events to Catch This Week: Nov. 28-Dec. 4

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is officially in holiday mode, and this week’s lineup is bringing all the sparkle, heart and hometown magic you could ask for. From the warmth of a glowing tree and carriage rides in the park to meaningful moments that benefit local children, it’s the perfect mix of feel-good traditions and brand-new experiences. Whether you’re craving a cozy photo with Santa, exploring a powerful art exhibit or soaking in the sights and sounds of a German-style holiday market, there’s no shortage of festive energy to go around. Keep scrolling for five events that’ll help you wrap up November and kick off December — with joy and festive vibes.

Hustle & Bustle to Downtown DSM for These 5 Free Upcoming Events

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMT

It’s the holiday season and Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is hustlin’ and bustlin’ with so many festive things to do: Local shopping, food and drink, live entertainment, arts and culture and lots more! Here’s a look at five FREE things to do during the month of December in Downtown DSM.