Can’t-Miss Downtown Events & Festive Gatherings: Nov. 15-21

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is alive with excitement, community and a festive spirit thanks to this week’s lineup of events. From elegant gatherings like the annual Champagne & Chocolate event at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden to the high-energy thrill of two Iowa Wild home hockey games, there’s no shortage of fun in Downtown.

Kickstart your holiday shopping early at the Look Local First Holiday Sip ’n Shop at the Des Moines Heritage Center or get active with family and friends at Turkey Trails Des Moines. Whether you’re in the mood for shopping, sports or seasonal treats, Downtown DSM has a packed lineup of can’t-miss activities this week!

Champagne & Chocolate

Friday, Nov. 15, 2024 | Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Savor an evening of elegance and celebration at the Botanical Garden with a glass of champagne in hand. This festive gala brings together exquisite champagne and chocolate pairings, savory bites, botanical cocktails and live music. Wander through the enchanting “Dome for the Holidays” light display and enjoy the garden’s magical glow after dark. It’s a perfect way to welcome the holiday season with friends, both new and old. Each ticket directly supports the Botanical Garden’s essential programs, allowing them to continue educating, inspiring and building connections in our community. Don’t miss this memorable night in Downtown DSM!
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Iowa Wild Games

Friday, Nov. 15, 2024 & Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024 | Wells Fargo Arena
Catch the Iowa Wild in action over the weekend at Wells Fargo Arena with two thrilling home games! Feel the excitement as the team takes the ice and join in the high-energy atmosphere as you cheer them on. It’s set to be a week packed with hockey and fun — just don’t miss out! Check out game details and special promotions:

• Friday, Nov. 15 Game vs. Texas Stars at 7 p.m.
  • Hockey Fights Cancer Night
  • I Fight For Card Giveaway (All Fans)
  • $2 Beers presented by 100.3 The Bus until end of 1st period
  • $3 off Fireball Drink Specials
• Saturday, Nov. 16 Game vs. Texas Stars at 6 p.m.
  • Veterans Appreciation Night
  • First 1,500 fans receive a Free Hat presented by Hildreth Construction Services and LAZER 103.3
  • 2-for-1 Confluence Beers until puck drop
  • Coca-Cola Local Concert Series, featuring Birdchild Duo
  • Post Game Auction benefitting Mid-Iowa Council Boy Scouts of America

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Look Local First Holiday Sip ‘n Shop

Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024 | Des Moines Heritage Center
Kick off your holiday shopping with the Look Local First Holiday Sip n’ Shop! Held at the Des Moines Heritage Center from 3-7 p.m., this first-ever event invites you to an evening filled with shopping, sips and seasonal cheer. With more than 30 local small businesses on site, it’s a fantastic opportunity to support local makers and find unique gifts before the Black Friday rush. Enjoy food trucks, bar service, a non-alcoholic beverage vendor and plenty of festive photo ops! The first 100 attendees will receive an exclusive swag bag, complete with goodies and a free drink ticket. With free admission, this is the perfect way to celebrate the season, support small businesses and enjoy the festive spirit of Downtown DSM!
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You might also be interested in the Des Moines Holiday Boutique at the Iowa Events Center on Nov. 15-17, 2024. Shop holiday gifts, browse pieces from local artisans, admire holiday displays, decorations and more!

Gabriel Espinosa: A Brazilian Night

Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024 | Noce
Enjoy a captivating evening of Brazilian music with Gabriel Espinosa: A Brazilian Night – Music of Jobim & More. Guitarist and composer Gabriel Espinosa, originally from Merida, Mexico, will present a night of Bossa Nova, joined by Helio Alves, Mauricio Zottarelli and special guest vocalist Aviana Gedler. Don’t miss this special performance celebrating the rich sounds of Brazilian music and the genius of Jobim, sure to bring warmth and rhythm to Downtown DSM this week.
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Turkey Trails Des Moines

Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024 | Gray’s Lake Kruidenier Trail
Get ready for some festive fitness with the Turkey Trails Des Moines race happening this week on Kruidenier Trail at Gray’s Lake! This Thanksgiving-themed 5k and 10k is perfect for the whole family, even a virtual race option for those who can’t join in person. Starting at 8:55 a.m., kids 10 and under can enjoy the untimed Kid’s Dash. Then the main events – one-mile, 5k and 10k races – kick off at 9 a.m. Racers can look forward to awesome swag, including a designer shirt and custom medal, plus chip-timed results, live awards and delicious post-race treats! Not running? No problem! Spectators are welcome to soak up the lively atmosphere, browse vendors and join the after party. Grab your family and friends for this fun, festive Downtown DSM tradition!
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If you’re looking for even more events in Downtown Des Moines, check out this list of Free Things to Do in November.

Find tips on parking and navigation in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) for this week’s exciting events and more. For additional information about upcoming events in Downtown DSM, visit the events calendar. Plus, follow @downtownDSMUSA on Instagram for even more things-you-just-can’t-miss happening around Downtown.