5 Can’t-Miss Events in Downtown This Week - Feb. 21-27

February in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is anything but dull and this week’s lineup of events proves it! Whether you’re in the mood to explore the outdoors, dance the night away or get inspired by local talent, there’s something happening that’s guaranteed to shake up your routine. From a hoot of a wildlife experience to a high-energy pitch competition, a music-filled fiesta and hands-on creative workshops, Downtown DSM is buzzing with ways to connect, unwind and try something new. Want to two-step your way into the weekend? Got a knack for spotting the next big startup? Or maybe you just need a night out with cocktails and good company? Keep reading for all the details on five can’t-miss happenings this week in Downtown DSM!

Owls of Iowa

Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 | MacRae Park
Who’s ready for an owl adventure? If you’ve ever wanted to meet one of Iowa’s most mysterious nighttime hunters up close, now’s your chance! Head to MacRae Park for Des Moines Parks & Recreation’s Owls of Iowa event, where you’ll get to meet a live screech owl and learn all about these fascinating feathered creatures. Then, bundle up and hit the trails for a short hike to see if you can spot some in the wild. It’s free, it’s fun and it’s the perfect way to add a little magic to your week. Just be sure to listen closely, you might hear an owl before you see one!
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Photo Courtesy of Des Moines Parks and Recreation.

Fiesta Con Sonia De Los Santos

Saturday Feb. 22, 2025 | Des Moines Civic Center
Get ready for a toe-tapping, handclapping, heartwarming celebration as Sonia De Los Santos brings her sunny energy to Downtown DSM. This isn’t just a concert — it’s a full-blown fiesta, where music from all over the world comes together in one unforgettable show. Sonia’s vibrant NYC-based band will be joined by Iowa’s own Los Llaneros, bringing the rich sounds of Colombian and Venezuelan folk music to the party. Expect catchy melodies, joyful dancing and a whole lot of good vibes. Whether you’re five years old or 95, this is the kind of show that’ll have you smiling and singing along!
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We think you might also be interested in this event happening at the Plymouth Church, just outside Downtown DSM: Lift Every Voice in Love Benefit. Enjoy this special concert to celebrate Black History and raise money for the Grubb YMCA.

Blooms & Baubles

Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025 | AC Hotel by Marriott Des Moines East Village
Flowers, jewelry and cocktails — can you name a better trio? Impossible! Blooms & Baubles is the perfect excuse to grab your besties, your partner or anyone you adore for a night of creativity and fun at the AC Hotel in Historic East Village. You’ll craft your own stunning floral arrangement with the pros from Wildflower and design custom charmed jewelry at the Darlin’ DSM’s Charm Bar. Bonus: Your ticket includes an extra charm, because you deserve it! Sip on Valentine-themed cocktails, nibble on delicious small bites and enjoy a night that’s as stylish as it is fun. Don’t miss this fabulous night out!
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Line Dance for the Soul

Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025 | Mainframe Studios
If you’ve been looking for something new and fun to do, Line Dance for the Soul is where it’s at! Grab your cowboy hat (or just your dancing shoes) and head to Mainframe Studios for an evening of high-energy line dancing that doubles as a killer workout. No excuses, no complaints — just good vibes, great music and a whole lot of two-stepping. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or have two left feet, this class is all about letting loose and having fun. Plus, it’s just $5 per class, so what are you waiting for? Mark your calendar for upcoming classes every Saturday.
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Founders Live

Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025 | Confluence Brewing Company
Founders Live is not your average pitch competition. It’s fast, fun and packed with innovation. Starting at 5 p.m., five bold entrepreneurs take the stage, each with just 99 seconds to pitch their game-changing ideas. After that? A four-minute audience Q&A, and then you decide the winner! Bring your friends, grab a drink and network with Des Moines’s brightest minds while casting your vote for the startup you think has what it takes to go big. Plus, enjoy live music from Tom Pevear starting at 6:30 p.m. With great pitches, great people and a high-energy vibe, this is one event you don’t want to miss!
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For even more events happening this February in Downtown DSM, check out this list of Free Things to Do.

For this week’s 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.