5 Can’t-Miss Events in Downtown Des Moines: Sept. 20-26

Fall is in the air in Downtown Des Moines (DSM), and we’re loving the slightly cooler temps and return of the pumpkin spice latte. We’re ready to kick off the first day of fall this week with can’t-miss events around Downtown DSM. Take your pick!

Winefest: Grand Tasting

Friday, Sept. 20, 2024 | Hotel Fort Des Moines
Get ready for an evening enjoying the finest foods and exquisite wines at The Grand Tasting at Hotel Fort Des Moines in Downtown DSM. Savor the flavors of a selection of hors d’oeuvres prepared by the area’s best restaurants and caterers, accompanied by an array of high-end wines from acclaimed wineries and world-renowned importers. Ticket upgrades are also available for an even more VIP experience of luxury and entertainment, including an exclusive lounge area, generous wine pours and elite appetizers available to VIP guests only. Let’s raise a glass to the return of The Grand Tasting in Downtown DSM!
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You might also be interested in the Sept. 26, 2024 event at Rollins Mansion, September Gin: A Culinary Tribute to England (and David Bowie). Enjoy an unforgettable five-course experience, with each dish perfectly complemented by a unique gin cocktail, just outside of Downtown DSM.

World Soccer Exhibition Games

Friday, Sept. 20, 2024 | Hy-Vee Hall at the Iowa Events Center
Experience the excitement of indoor global soccer games for the first time in Downtown DSM! Get a kick out of watching the Mexico National Team take on the Brazil National Team for an International Soccer Fiesta! Doors open at 6 p.m. and the soccer match starts at 7 p.m. Additional entertainment will be provided by Son Peruchos, Folkloric Ballet Las Embajadoras, Banda La Nueva Perla Del Sur, DJ Chato La Q Buena and more!
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Knotfest Iowa 2024

Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024 | Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park
Beloved Iowa band, Slipknot, is hosting Knotfest Iowa 2024 in Downtown DSM. The one-day festival is a celebration of the band’s special 25th anniversary. The full lineup includes 13 bands on two stages, including Slipknot, Till Lindemann, Knocked Loose, Hatebreed, Poison The Well and Dying Wish, to namedrop just a few. The Slipknot Museum will also be featured as an immersive exhibit at the event. Fans can purchase tickets for an additional charge to access the museum full of instruments, memorabilia, wardrobe and personal items that have never been seen before.
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Iowa’s Latino Heritage Festival: Viva La Fiesta

Saturday & Sunday, Sept. 21 & 22, 2024 | Western Gateway Park
Don’t miss the diverse tastes, sounds and delicious smells of Iowa’s largest Latino fiesta, Latino Heritage Festival in Downtown DSM. Browse cultural booths and Latino artist displays throughout the festival while listening to upbeat Latin music with a lineup that will have you dancing before you know it. Sample an array of tasty Latino dishes, including tacos (of course!), pupusas, mango with chile, birria and sopes. Come for the delicious Latino cuisine, stay to celebrate the 22 Latin American countries represented here!
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NHL Hockey: Des Moines Community Classic

Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024 | Wells Fargo Arena
Calling all hockey fanatics and sports fans alike! Experience National Hockey League-level hockey in Downtown DSM with the first-ever competitive game for Utah Hockey Club. The team was established as an NHL franchise earlier this year and on Sunday the new club will kick off with a preseason game against the St. Louis Blues. Get your tickets so you don’t miss this NHL professional hockey experience — right here in DSM!
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You might also be interested in the Capital City Card Convention, Iowa’s largest three-day sports card and memorabilia convention taking place Sept. 20-22 at Iowa Events Center in Downtown DSM.

And if you’re looking for even more events and activities in Downtown Des Moines, check out this list of Free Things To Do in Downtown DSM in September.

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