5 Great & Can’t-Miss Events in Downtown Des Moines: Jan. 10-16 

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is serving up a week packed with great levels of excitement, energy and plenty of ways to beat those winter blues! Whether you’re ready to lace up your dancing shoes for a sizzling Latin night, kick back with live music and a cold brew or experience the thrill of rodeo action, there’s no shortage of entertainment to enjoy. From heart-pounding basketball games to laid-back evenings with your favorite tunes, Downtown DSM has you covered for an unforgettable week of fun. Check out these five can’t-miss events happening this week and start planning your next adventure in Downtown DSM!

Botanical Blues

Sunday, Jan. 5 – Sunday, March 30, 2025 | Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Escape the winter chill and let the Botanical Garden’s conservatory warm your soul with the smooth sounds of live blues music! Cozy up among lush greenery and enjoy some of the Midwest’s best blues artists in this incredible indoor setting. With two shows taking place each Sunday at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., this series is the perfect way to brighten your winter weekends. Admission is first-come, first-served at the door. Don’t miss out on this 2025 blues line-up:

• Jan. 5 – Major Blues and the Mugshots
• Jan. 12 – Bob Pace
• Jan. 19 – Weary Ramblers
• Jan. 26 – Heath Alan
• Feb. 2 – Chuggaluggers
• Feb. 9 – Jodi Bodley and Dewey Cantrell
• Feb. 16 – Local Ukesters Ukulele Band
• Feb. 23 – Soul Searchers
• March 2 – Drama Kings
• March 9 – Steve E. George
• March 16 – Ducharme-Jones
• March 23 – “The Blue Two” Bob Dorr and Jeff Petersen
• March 30 – “Grill and Kain” Cindy Grill and Dennis Kain

Sponsored by Nationwide, this blues-filled winter tradition promises music, warmth and a relaxing escape from the cold!
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Cinch World’s Toughest Rodeo

Friday & Saturday, Jan. 10-11, 2025 | Wells Fargo
Get ready to saddle up because the Cinch World’s Toughest Rodeo is riding back into Downtown DSM! This high-energy, action-packed event will showcase the nation’s top rodeo athletes, fearless cowboys and some of the wildest livestock around. From bull riding to bronc busting, you won’t want to miss a second of the adrenaline-pumping fun. And don’t forget to come early for the free pre-show at 6 p.m. each night! Head down to the dirt for a chance to sit on a real live bull, learn to lasso like a pro, ride a pony and soak up all the rodeo magic up close. It’s the perfect family-friendly night of thrills, spills and unforgettable memories.
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Photo Credit: Cinch World's Toughest Rodeo

Iowa Wolves Basketball Games

Monday, Jan. 13 & Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025 | Wells Fargo Arena
Searching for an affordable family outing this week? Head to Wells Fargo Arena to watch the Iowa Wolves play, with your choice of two weekday games! Get your tickets now to Monday’s game against the Rip City Remix and Wednesday’s game against the Greensboro Swarm. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with tip-off at 6:30 p.m. both nights. With so many affordable ticket options available, you can catch top-tier basketball action up close and cheer for rising stars just a step away from the NBA. Gather your friends and family for an exciting night of hoops, energy and hometown pride in Downtown DSM!
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Andrew Hoyt Live

Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025 | Confluence Brewery
Kick back with a cold brew and enjoy the smooth sounds of Andrew Hoyt at Confluence Brewery this Thursday from 6 to 8:30 p.m.! A Des Moines local and K-5 vocal music teacher, Andrew brings his signature chill vibes and undeniable talent to the stage. With influences like John Mayer and Jason Mraz, Andrew’s soulful tunes and signature Hawaiian KoAloha ukulele are guaranteed to set the perfect mood. Recently signed by indie label Golden Bear Records, this rising star is one to watch. Grab your friends, sip on some of Confluence’s finest craft beer and let Andrew’s warm melodies make your evening unforgettable.
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Caliente! Thursdays

Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025 | Nightingale Cocktail
Turn up the heat this Thursday with Caliente Thursdays, Des Moines’ ultimate Latin dance night! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or have two left feet, you’re sure to enjoy this lively evening. Grab a partner or come solo to groove to the hottest mix of Salsa, Bachata and Reggaeton hits. Need a little help? Join the free dance lesson at 8 p.m. led by experienced instructors who’ll have you dancefloor-ready in no time. After you’ve worked up a sweat, sip on a handcrafted cocktail and unwind. Come for the music, stay for the energy and mingle with a fun, welcoming crowd. Thursdays have never been this caliente!
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Photo Credit: Nightingale Cocktail

Plan your week, mark your calendar and make the most of what Downtown DSM has to offer! For even more events this January in Downtown Des Moines, 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.