5 Must-Attend Downtown DSM Events: Jan. 17–23 

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is shaking off the winter chill with an exciting lineup of events happening this week! Whether you’re testing your trivia skills over craft brews, cheering on the Iowa Wild during Pride Night or enjoying a sensory-friendly ice-skating experience, there’s no shortage of fun. Get ready to sing along to Purple Rain at a legendary Prince tribute show or put your detective skills to the test during a thrilling interactive dinner mystery.

From lively nights out to unique winter adventures, Downtown DSM has your week covered with entertainment, excitement and unforgettable memories. Let’s dive into the details of what’s happening this week in Downtown DSM!

Pub Trivia Night

Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025 | Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Company
Round up your brainiest crew and head to CABCo. for an unforgettable Trivia Night packed with fun, laughs and a little friendly competition! Sip on craft brews, savor delicious bites and flex those mental muscles as you tackle trivia questions across a variety of topics. If you’re a pop culture pro, a history buff or just here for the beer, you're sure to have a great time. With awesome prizes up for grabs and a lively atmosphere to keep the good vibes flowing, it’s the perfect midweek pick-me-up. Think you’ve got what it takes to claim the trivia crown? Grab your team and come find out!
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Iowa Wild Pride Night

Friday, Jan. 17, 2025 | Wells Fargo Arena
Get ready for a night of fierce hockey action and vibrant celebration at Pride Night with the Iowa Wild this Friday! Cheer on the Wild as they take on the Rockford IceHogs and celebrate diversity, inclusion and community alongside the Pride Sports League. The energy on the ice will match the excitement in the stands with $2 beers until the end of the first intermission and $3 off Fireball drink specials to keep things lively. Whether you’re a hockey diehard or just here for the fun vibes, this game is the perfect way to show your pride and support, plus enjoy a memorable evening in Downtown DSM. Grab your crew, sip a cold one and make this a night to remember!
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Sensory Skate

Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025 | Brenton Skating Plaza
Des Moines Parks and Recreation invites individuals with sensory processing challenges to enjoy a special ice-skating experience at Brenton Skating Plaza from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. For just $5 (which includes admission and skate or sled rental), Sensory Skate provides a quieter, less crowded environment, perfect for embracing the joy of outdoor skating at a comfortable pace. With thoughtful accommodations and a focus on inclusivity, this session offers a welcoming space for fun and recreation. Pro Tip: Mark your calendar for more upcoming Sensory Skate dates: Feb. 8, March 1 and March 15, 2025.
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Photo Credit: Des Moines Parks and Recreation

You might also be interested in our blog on other sensory-friendly activities in Downtown DSM.

The Prince Experience

Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025 | Wooly’s
Get ready to party like it’s 1999! Wooly’s and ia live bring The Prince Experience to Downtown DSM for an unforgettable night celebrating the music of legendary musician, Prince. This tribute show captures all the magic, energy and iconic hits from every era, including the unforgettable Purple Rain. If you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering Prince’s genius, this performance is packed with sing-along favorites and electrifying vibes that will have you dancing all night long. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show kicks off at 8:30 p.m. Don your best purple, grab your friends and let’s honor the music and legacy of one of the greatest artists of all time!
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Dinner Detective

Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025 | Embassy Suites by Hilton Des Moines Downtown
Calling all future sleuths! Here’s your chance for an evening filled with mystery, comedy and suspense at The Dinner Detective, the ultimate interactive true crime dinner experience. Set in the present day and inspired by real cold cases, this thrilling event keeps you guessing as you feast on a delicious dinner. But be warned — someone sinister is lurking in the room and you could become the Prime Suspect! Hilarious Detectives will interrogate guests, uncover clues and reveal shocking twists as the night unfolds. Can you solve the crime before the final reveal? Prizes await the Top Sleuth, so sharpen those detective skills and prepare for a night of unforgettable intrigue, laughter and fun!
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For even more events happening in Downtown DSM this January, 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.