5 Can’t-Miss Events in Downtown Des Moines: Sept. 6-12

On this week’s roundup of Downtown Des Moines (DSM) can’t-miss events, we have everything from live music and pop-up shops in the East Village, to a fashion extravaganza at Mainframe Studios, to a football tailgate at Cowles Commons and so very much more! Don’t miss out on this eventful week of activities and opportunities to explore Downtown DSM.

First Friday: Live Music + Pop-Up Shops

Friday, September 6, 2024 | Historic East Village
Enjoy double the fun in the Historic East Village this First Friday event, including free live music and pop-up shops hosted by HEV businesses. The pop-up shops will include hand-drawn pet portraits by local artists at Leona Ruby, a gem show at Owen Jewelry Design, Rachel Lucs Cookies and Cakes at AllSpice Culinarium and more! Pro Tip: Mark your calendar for more free live music and fun next month on Friday, October 4!
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First Friday: Five Floors of Fashion

Friday, September 6, 2024 | Mainframe Studios
Get ready for a fashion extravaganza! Explore “Five Floors of Fashion” at Mainframe Studios’ First Friday open studio event. Tour 180 artist studios, enjoy live music and munch on delicious food. This free event features an array of artists including fashion designers, jewelry makers and fiber artists. A henna artist, interactive photo displays and craft activities will also be available. The grand finale of the evening will be a fashion show starting at 7 p.m.
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Downtown Farmers’ Market

Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024 | Historic Court District
Kick-off your Saturday morning right at Des Moines’ Downtown Farmers’ Market in the Historic Court District. Pop on by from 7 a.m. to Noon to find an array of vendors and new products! The Market represents the diverse community of Iowa, from agriculture to business. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, baked goods, fresh-cut flowers, handmade art or live music, The Market is the perfect place to enjoy it all!
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Touchdown Tailgate

Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024 | Cowles Commons
Let’s get ready for some football! Come down to Cowles Commons to see the Iowa vs. Iowa State football game on the big screen! Wear your team’s colors, bring a lawn chair and come for the fun from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with the game kicking off at 2:30 p.m. on two Jumbotron TVs. Four local food truck vendors will be available: Farmboys BBQ, Roadside Tacos, Big Red Food Truck and Sweet Swirls, plus Your Private Bar will be selling alcohol. Be sure to follow the rules: No coolers or outside food will be permitted. Join the best tailgate party in Downtown DSM with music, entertainment, cold beer, fantastic food and — of course — football!
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Abbie Sawyer & Lorin Ditzler at Local Bands, Brews and Bikes

Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024 | Des Moines Biergarten at Water Works Park
Experience the earthy sounds and soulful harmonies of Abbie Sawyer and Lorin Ditzler at Local Bands, Brews and Bikes at Des Moines Biergarten. Both members of the band Abbie & The Sawyers, these women are ready to take the stage with their stunning vocals, accompanied by the guitar and banjo. Ride your bike down to Water Works Park, grab a cold brew from the Des Moines Biergarten and kick back, relax and listen to the music. Don't miss out on this free event, the perfect place to enjoy live music! Check out the list of upcoming bands including The High Bidders, Southbound Allman Brothers Tribute Band and more.
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You might also be interested in the Whiterock Conservancy Six-Course Pairing Dinner with Big Grove Brewery and Lua Brewing happening this Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024.

Looking for more? Check out this list of free events taking place during September in Downtown DSM.

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.