5 Can’t-Miss Cheerful Events This Week in Downtown DSM: Dec. 6-12 

_{Header image courtesy Ryan Morrison.}

The holiday season is in full swing and Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is buzzing with festive cheer! This week you’ll find an amazing lineup of seasonal events, from magical holiday markets perfect for gift shopping to enchanting shows that will have you singing along or sitting in awe. Whether you’re looking to soak in the holiday spirit with family, gather your friends for a festive outing or treat yourself to something special, there’s no shortage of ways to make the season memorable. Check out these five can’t-miss events happening in Downtown DSM this week!

Hide & Seek Ornaments You Keep

Friday, Dec. 6 – Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024 | Downtown DSM
Looking for a holiday adventure with a creative twist? Check out Hide & Seek Ornaments You Keep in Downtown DSM! Local artists have handcrafted ornaments and hidden them around Western Gateway, Historic East Village, Court District and central Downtown DSM. The goal? To spread holiday cheer and encourage everyone to shop local! Follow @DSMpartnership and @downtownDSMUSA on Facebook and Instagram for daily clues and photos using #downtownDSM and #DSMlocal. If you find an ornament, snap a pic, share it on social and take it home. It’s yours to keep! (Just one per family, please!) It’s the perfect way to explore the city, support local businesses and make the season extra special. Ready to join the hunt?
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Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus: Thankful

Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024 | Hoyt Sherman Place
If you’re looking for a holiday event that brings joy, warmth and a dash of sparkle, don’t miss the Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus: Thankful! This heartwarming concert celebrates the season with songs that capture the magic of twinkling lights, festive traditions and the cozy spirit of togetherness. From playful tunes about Santa and ugly sweaters to heartfelt reflections on love, gratitude and community, it’s a perfect mix of fun and meaning. With shows at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., grab your friends or family and make it part of your holiday festivities this year.
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Check out these other musical opportunities this week in Downtown DSM: Home for the Holidays with Max Wellman at Noce and Light Up the Holidays with Quartet515 at Rollins Mansion (just outside of Downtown Des Moines).

Holiday Dickensian Dinner

Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024 | Reinhardt Room
Looking for a holiday dining experience straight out of a storybook? Head to Django for a Dickensian dinner this Sunday! Inspired by Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol”, this multi-course feast will transport you to Victorian England with dishes like Sugar Plums, Scalloped Oysters and Roast Beef with Yorkshire Pudding. Chef Partners Derek Eidson and George Formaro, along with the Django team, have crafted a historical menu that’s as delicious as it is festive. The evening will kick off with a traditional welcome beverage and themed cocktails are available to keep the holiday spirit flowing. Don’t miss this communal, candlelit experience that’s perfect for foodies and Dickens fans alike. Tickets for seats are available now, so grab your spot!
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You might also be interested in Nolet’s Noel, a spirited holiday dinner at Centro.

Ruan Center’s Holiday Market

Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024 | Ruan Center
Get your holiday shopping done at the Ruan Center’s Holiday Market this Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.! With 35 incredible local vendors, this annual market is the perfect opportunity to find unique gifts, support small businesses and soak in some festive cheer. Whether you’re shopping for friends, family or even yourself, you’ll discover a wide variety of handmade goods, delicious treats and creative products. Downtown DSM residents and workers won’t want to miss this one-day-only holiday event!
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Ballet Des Moines: The Nutcracker

Thursday, Dec. 12 – Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024 | Hoyt Sherman Place
Looking for the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit? Ballet Des Moines’ The Nutcracker is a must-see! This enchanting production brings Clara’s magical journey with her Nutcracker to life, complete with dazzling choreography, stunning costumes and all the whimsy you could ask for. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or seeing it for the first time, this classic tale is pure holiday magic for all ages. With six shows over four days at the beautiful Hoyt Sherman Place, there’s plenty of opportunity to experience the wonder. Grab your tickets and let the holiday tradition begin!
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Photo Credit: Jami Milne

If you’re looking for family-friendly events happening in Downtown DSM this week, you should know about the show 3 Finger Betty at Plain Talk Books & Coffee and the annual Holiday Open House at the Hall of Laureates. You also might be interested in the Despicable Me Themed Brunch at Truman’s and Light Up the Heritage Carousel for the Holidays, just outside of Downtown DSM.

For even more events to check out in Downtown Des Moines this December, take a look at this list of Free Things to Do.

For these events and more, find tips on Downtown Des Moines (DSM) parking and navigation. For additional events and seasonal festivities coming up in Downtown DSM, visit the events calendar. Plus, follow @downtownDSMUSA on Instagram for even more things-you-just-can’t-miss happening around Downtown.