Where to Go and What to Do in DSM This Week: Nov. 7-13
November in Greater Des Moines (DSM) is off to a cozy, high-energy start. This week, you’ll find everything from off-road races and art-filled small-town getaways to veterans’ tributes, boutique shopping sprees and live music with after-work cocktails. Whether you’re layering up for a run through the countryside, kicking off your holiday shopping or raising a glass with friends, there’s a little something happening in every corner of the region. Events span from Ankeny and Altoona to Perry, Urbandale, Waukee and beyond. If you’re looking to make the most of your week without overfilling your schedule, keep scrolling — we’ve rounded up five fun and meaningful things to do across the region, Nov. 7-13.
Harvest to Holiday: Boutique Open House
Friday, Nov. 7 – Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025 | The District at Prairie Trail, Ankeny
If you’re someone who switches from pumpkins to peppermint the second Halloween ends, this is your sign to start holiday shopping. The boutiques at The District in Ankeny are hosting a cozy Harvest to Holiday Open House all weekend long, and it’s full of seasonal style, gift-worthy goodies and fun giveaways. Swing by shops like Maria Vincent Boutique, Purple Poppy, ROBIN•riley and Mainstream Boutique to check out their best fall and winter arrivals. Bonus: No big crowds, just good vibes and even better retail therapy.
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Living History Farms Race
Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025 | Living History Farms, Urbandale
This isn’t your typical 5-mile run! It’s a mud-splashing, stream-hopping, history-tripping adventure through 300 years of Iowa life. The Living History Farms Race is one of the quirkiest (and most beloved) off-road runs in the state, taking you through fields, past farm animals and straight into post-race snacks from The Machine Shed. Costumes are highly encouraged, with prizes for best individual, group and patriotic/U.S. semi-quincentennial themes. Plus, there’s a free kids’ run afterward at 10:30 a.m.! Registration closes Nov. 7, so don’t wait. No race day sign-ups.
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Art on the Prairie
Saturday, Nov. 8 – Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025 | Downtown Cultural & Historic District, Perry
If you love small-town charm with a side of culture, make the trip to Perry for the 15th Annual Art on the Prairie festival. This free event takes over the Downtown Cultural & Historic District with 48+ visual artists, 36+ musicians and 16+ poets sharing their work across multiple cozy venues. It’s equal parts creative and community-driven, with layers of local art, music and spoken word that feel refreshingly authentic. Whether you’re browsing or buying, you’ll walk away inspired. Hours: Saturday 10-5 p.m., Sunday 10-4 p.m.
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Commemorate Veterans Day
Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2025 | Various DSM Locations
Veterans Day is a time to pause, reflect and honor those who have served, and there are several meaningful ways to do just that across DSM. Whether you attend a ceremony or simply take a moment of gratitude, here are a few places where you can commemorate the day:
However you choose to observe, take a moment this week to thank a veteran and reflect on the sacrifices made for our freedoms.
Amped After Work
Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025 | Vibrant Music Hall, Waukee
You’ve made it to Thursday! It’s time to swap your inbox for a cocktail and head to Amped After Work at Vibrant Music Hall. From 4-7 p.m., you’ll get free access to their VIP Club (aka: the Red Room), where the drinks are flowing and the music is live. It’s low-pressure, high-vibe fun — perfect for an after-work catch-up with coworkers or friends who need a midweek pick-me-up. No cover. Just good energy. Now clock out and grab your crew. It’s time to get amped!
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November is packed with free fun across DSM, and you won’t need to spend a dime to enjoy it.
For additional events and seasonal festivities coming up in Greater Des Moines (DSM), visit the calendar of events. You can also find live music happening each week thanks to the “Live Music This Week in DSM” blog series. Plus, follow @DSMpartnership on Instagram for even more things-you-just-can’t-miss happening around DSM.