Can’t-Miss Events in Downtown Des Moines: June 7-13

This week in Downtown Des Moines (DSM), there are tons of can’t-miss events, things to do and activities to choose from. Here are five upcoming things taking place this week you should know about:

PrideFest

Friday, June 7 – Sunday, June 9 | Historic East Village
It’s PrideFest weekend in Downtown Des Moines! Join in the fun, show your support and show your pride. Activities include a silent disco, PrideStride 5k, pet parade, family and youth zone, teen zone, blood drive, Capital City Pride Parade, yoga, cardio dance and tons more! Plus performing acts with headliners Rebecca Black, Monét X Change, Shea Colleé, Gottmik, Bonne and the Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus.
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Robert Plant & Alison Krauss: Can’t Let Go Tour

Tuesday, June 11 | Water Works Park
Rock singer Robert Plant and bluegrass-country artist Alison Krauss are bringing their Can’t Let Go tour to Downtown DSM’s Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park, and it’s sure to be an unforgettable musical journey. Special guest JD McPherson will open the show, which starts at 7 p.m. Feel free to bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on, and refillable water bottles are also allowed into this outdoor concert space. Additional food and drinks can be purchased on-site.
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Ballet Des Moines Summer STEM Finale

Sunday, June 9 | Water Works Park
The Ballet’s annual tour throughout the state of Iowa will culminate this week in Downtown DSMon the Lauridsen Amphitheater stage at Water Works Park, performing excerpts from “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “Love Letters.” Lawn seating for the performance is free, and VIP upgrade opportunities are available for purchase. Also free, kids and families can experience STEM and arts activities before the show and stick around after the performance for a stargazing and constellation activity.
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AViD Author Series: Jasmine Guillory

Thursday, June 13 | Des Moines Public Library’s Central Library
The beloved author of modern-day romance novels is making a pitstop at the Des Moines Public Library’s AViD Author Series in Downtown DSM this week. Seating is on a first-come, first-served and following the program will be a Q&A period, book signing and books available for purchase by Beaverdale Books.
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Ball Game Fun at Principal Park

There are several ways to experience the ballpark in Downtown Des Moines this week, including opportunities for individuals with special sensory needs. Take a look:

• Iowa Cubs vs. Toledo: Games Daily, Tuesday, June 4 – Sunday, June 9
• Sensory Friendly Game at Principal Park: Sunday, June 9 at 1 p.m.
• 3rd Annual Iowa Legislative Slow-Pitch Softball Game: Sunday, June 9 at approx. 4 p.m.

Photo Credit: Iowa Cubs, Dylan Heuer and Ginnie Coleman

You might also be interested in this year’s first Heart of Des Moines Farmers’ Market in the River Bend neighborhood on Saturday, June 8. Additionally, IRONMAN 70.3 Des Moines is taking place Sunday, June 9 around Downtown DSM, including spectator-friendly swimming at Gray’s Lake and a great chance to cheer for the athletes as they run across the finish-line in front of the historic Polk County Courthouse.

Also, here’s a list of five totally free things to do in Downtown Des Moines during June if you’re looking for even more to explore.

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.