5 Free Things to Do in Downtown Des Moines — May Edition

The best time of the year is finally here in Downtown Des Moines (DSM)! As spring transitions to summer, local favorites ranging from cultural festivals to farmers’ markets return for the season. Be sure to take advantage of these five fun and FREE Downtown DSM festivals, events and things to do throughout the month of May.

Free Downtown DSM Events in May

Des Moines’ Downtown Farmers’ Market

Saturdays, 7 a.m. – Noon from May – September, 8 a.m. - Noon in October
It’s back! The much-awaited Downtown Farmers’ Market presented by UnityPoint Health – Des Moines is finally open for the season, beginning this month. Shop local farmers and producers, artists, makers and other vendors scattered throughout the Historic Court District in Downtown DSM as you enjoy live music and entertainment in an unforgettable atmosphere. Get your fill of fresh produce, meat, cheese, eggs, baked goods, fresh flowers and plants, jewelry, art, décor and lots more! While you wander, enjoy a hot coffee and eat breakfast, lunch or something sweet. You’re in for a treat at this festive, can’t-miss market that draws thousands of locals and visitors to Downtown DSM each week. Keeping it fresh: The Market is adding 27 booth spaces and 48 new vendors in 2025!
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CelebrAsian

Friday, May 23 – Saturday, May 24, 2025, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
The Western Gateway neighborhood will transform into a vibrant celebration of Asian culture, heritage and community for the 22nd Annual CelebrAsian in Downtown DSM. This year’s theme, In Full Bloom, honors 50 years since Southeast Asian refugees resettled in the U.S., and the incredible growth that’s followed — from families and communities to generations rooted in hope and resilience. Experience more than a dozen Asian villages featuring authentic food, cultural exhibits, live performances, martial arts, sports and family activities. Whether you’re reconnecting with your heritage or discovering new traditions, this free two-day festival is a celebration of growth, strength and shared stories.
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Optik Interactive Forms

Friday, May 2 – Monday, May 26, 2025
Optik Interactive Forms is a free public art installation coming to Cowles Commons in Downtown DSM this month. The exhibit features 20 six-foot-tall gyroscope-like forms that light up, spin and transform into interactive musical instruments. Created by The Urban Conga in collaboration with Serge Maheu and powered by Creos, Optik invites people of all ages to engage with light, sound and movement in a playful, hands-on way. Co-presented by Des Moines Performing Arts and Operation Downtown in partnership with the Greater Des Moines Partnership, this vibrant experience adds energy and creativity to the heart of Downtown DSM. A grand opening event is planned for Friday, May 2, featuring live music from soul-pop band The Finesse. Stop by throughout May to explore, interact and experience Downtown DSM in a whole new way.
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More Free Things to Do in Downtown DSM

Gray's Lake

As May rolls around, more outdoor recreation is available for the season at Gray’s Lake! Hit the beach, wander the 2.1-mile looped trail around the lake or even enjoy a lakeside picnic or a nap in your hammock. In addition to the free recreation available, beginning Wednesday, May 12, 2025, you’ll find snacks, drinks and watercraft rentals available for purchase on weekday evenings and weekends with further expanded hours starting Memorial Day weekend through Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025. Types of watercraft available to rent include canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, pedal boats, row boats and sailboats — with life vests provided complimentary with each rental. After an excursion on the lake, buy a cold drink, ice cream or snack to fuel up at the concession stand.
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Downtown DSM Parks & Trails

‘Tis the season to get out and explore the great outdoors around Downtown DSM! The Greater Des Moines (DSM) region boasts 800+ miles of recreational trails ideal for walking, running, biking, skateboarding, rollerblading (and more!) — many converging in Downtown DSM as the central trails hub for the area. From the mature tree canopy at MacRae Park to the urban Principal Riverwalk, you’ll find the perfect combination of nature getaway along with vibrant city amenities (no bike ride is complete without a bite to eat and a cold beer on a local patio!).
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Looking for even more budget-friendly adventures? You can also find live music happening each week thanks to the "Live Music This Week in DSM" blog series, including free opportunities to hear local musicians.

Plan your visit to Downtown Des Moines (DSM) with these tips for parking and navigation and follow @downtownDSMUSA on Instagram for more epic, things-you-just-can’t-miss happening around Downtown.