5 Events Coming to Downtown DSM Over May 5-11

There’s so much to see in do in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) as spring turns to summer! May brings the Downtown Farmers’ Market season, cultural festivals, live music, concerts and much more. Here’s a look at what’s coming up this week:

First Fridays in the East Village

Friday, May 5 | Historic East Village
Hop on over to Downtown DSM to shop, eat, drink and support local businesses this Friday. Historic East Village shops are offering special promotions and fun events from 5 to 8 p.m., including FREE PARKING in designated retail areas.
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Field Daze Music Series Kickoff

Friday, May 5 | Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park
Get ready to have a great time! On Friday, the ultimate ‘70s tribute band, Pet Rock, is ready to jam on-stage as the kickoff to the 2023 Field Daze Music Series at Water Works Park. Then Saturday, come for the dance party featuring tunes from the ‘80s, ‘90s and ‘00s including headliner, The Pork Tornados. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. Both shows are for all ages.
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Downtown Farmers’ Market

Saturdays, May 6 – October 28 | Historic Court District
Opening day is finally here! The Downtown Farmers’ Market presented by UnityPoint Health – Des Moines returns to the streets of Downtown DSM from 7 a.m. to Noon beginning May 6 and continuing each Saturday through October. Wander hundreds of local vendors and shop diverse products including locally grown produce, farm fresh eggs, meat and cheese, flowers, plants, locally produced wine, baked goods, breakfast and lunch foods, coffee and tea, art, décor, jewelry, apparel and so much more. The festive atmosphere, live music and entertainment will leave you excited to come back again next week, too!
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Gray’s Station Summer Music Series: Andrew Hoyt

Thursday, May 11 | Gray’s Station
Don’t miss the kickoff to this new Summer Music Series taking place on Thursdays throughout the summer! BYO chair, blanket and beverage for a fun night of free live music. While you listen to Andrew Hoyt performing live, enjoy food available for purchase from the local food truck, Flame. This event is family- and dog-friendly, and is co-hosted by 80/35 Music Festival and the Des Moines Music Coalition.
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Spring Garden Festival

Thursday, May 11 – Saturday, May 13 | Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Support a local nonprofit with your spring plant purchases at this unique shopping event. The Botanical Garden’s annual plant sale includes 350 unique and tried-and-true varieties curated by the garden staff. The preview night on Thursday provides guests with a signature drink and charcuterie with the chance to browse the inventory, including an informal Q&A opportunity with horticulture staff and volunteers. In addition to plants, gently used garden and plant-themed items will be available for purchase over two shopping dates, both Friday and Saturday.
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Looking for more things to do? Check out these five free events and happenings around Downtown DSM this month.

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.