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!

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.

What’s Happening Downtown DSM: 5 Events You’ll Love: Feb. 13-19

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Love is in the air, and so is the sound of blues guitar riffs, clinking pint glasses and fuzzy-costumed cyclists pedaling through Downtown Des Moines (DSM). This week is bringing all the vibes: romantic dinners, high-energy concerts, quirky traditions and a healthy dose of red flannel. Whether you’re a foodie looking to pair your pasta with the perfect brew, a runner ready to embrace the cold in style or someone who just loves a good dance party for a cause, the perfect way to spend your week is in the heart of the city. Downtown DSM is buzzing with energy, and you don’t want to miss out. Keep scrolling for five events that will warm up your February in all the best ways.

Downtown DSM January Fun: 5 Events to Check Out This Week (Jan. 16-22)

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

From mixology mysteries and Pink Floyd light shows to a Wookie-approved beer fest, Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is keeping things exciting this January. Whether you’re up for a night of artsy vibes and iced coffee, gliding into a new hobby on the ice or rocking out after an Iowa Wild goal (or two), this week’s lineup has no shortage of unique ways to shake off the post-holiday slump. You’ll find events perfect for group hangs, date nights or solo outings — all within a few blocks of Downtown DSM’s best food, drink and entertainment spots. So grab your calendar, bundle up and scroll on for five fresh, fun ways to explore Downtown DSM from Jan. 16-22.

What’s Happening This Week in Downtown DSM: Jan. 9-15

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

January in Downtown Des Moines is anything but boring. Whether you’re looking to lasso some high-energy entertainment, channel your inner flapper, hunt demons (yes, really) or lock in wedding day inspo, this week’s lineup is full of surprises. Expect a little nostalgia, a lot of dancing and plenty of chances to kick off 2026 in style. There’s even a free pre-show at the rodeo and a full-blown Gatsby gala on the dance floor. So shake off the winter blues and keep scrolling for five fun ways to get out and about in Downtown DSM this week, Jan. 9-15.

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.

New Year’s Eve Nightlife + Events in Downtown DSM

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Whether you’re looking for a New Year’s event to celebrate the end of 2025 and ring in 2026 or want to find a party at one of Downtown Des Moines’ (DSM’s) hotels or nightlife venues, we’re here to help! Celebrate with loved ones this New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day with our favorite downtown businesses. There are plenty of places to watch the ball (or balloons!) drop or simply spend time with family and friends in anticipation of Midnight.