5 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Downtown DSM This Week + Veteran’s Day

Here’s a look at five can’t-miss things to do this week in Downtown Des Moines (DSM), including opportunities where local businesses will honor military members, veterans and their families in observance of Veteran’s Day.

Culturall: An Evening with Carol Roh Spaulding

Friday, Nov. 10 | Storyhouse Book Pub
Celebrate the release of Roh Spaulding’s most recent book, “Waiting for Ms. Kim and Other Stories.” The collection of interlinked stories explores what it means to live at the intersection of “Asian” and “American” by following four generations of Korean American families. Tickets to the event include drinks and dessert.
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Iowa Wolves Home Opener

Friday, Nov. 10 – Saturday, Nov. 12 | Wells Fargo Arena
The wolf pack is back for the kickoff to the season in Downtown DSM! The Wolves will take on the Windy City Bulls in fast-paced hoops action. Friday’s Premiere Night promotion will include Luka Garza booblehead giveaways for the first 2,000 fans. And Saturday is Hoops for Troops night in observance of Veterans Day on Nov. 1; the first 1,000 fans will receive an Iowa Wolves schedule magnet.
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Star-Spangled Salute to Veterans

Sunday, Nov. 12 | Des Moines Civic Center
In observance of Veteran’s Day, the Iowa Military Veterans Band will perform a traditional concert in honor of all veterans. The event kicks off at 2 p.m. and is free for all to attend andopen to the public.
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Don’t Miss: Several Downtown DSM businesses wish to honor service members with special offerings in observance of Veterans Day. On Saturday, Nov. 11, Big Grove Brewery is giving active-duty military, veterans and Gold Star families a free meal. Additionally on Saturday, veterans will receive free admission to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden.

A Motown Christmas

Tuesday, Nov. 14 | Hoyt Sherman Place
Featuring former members of the Temptations, the Miracles and the Contours, the iconic Motown sound includes a six-piece band backing the crooning vocals. You’ll hear favorite Motown hits combined with holiday classics plus dazzling dance moves and perfect harmonies. It’s never too early to get into the holiday spirit!
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Books & Bites

Tuesday, Nov. 14 | The Walnut
The Des Moines Public Library’s monthly book club is ready for its next page-turner! Register in advance on the DMPL’s website and join other booklovers at The Walnut restaurant in Downtown DSM, with this month’s discussion based on the book, “The Banned Bookshop of Maggie Banks” by Shauna Robinson. Copies of the monthly book selection are available, while supplies last, for checkout from the Central Library Circulation Desk and Pickup Window.
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Looking for more Downtown DSM events and happenings? Here’s a look at 5 free things to do downtown during November!

For additional ideas, take a peep at the Downtown DSM buying guides ahead of the holiday season! The North + Central, South, West and East Buying Guides are a curated list of shops, restaurants and services around the region and downtown, too! And as the weather changes, you’ll want to be prepared for what’s to come. Here are some helpful tips on how to remain safe during the coldest months of the year.

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.