Discover 5 Must-Attend Events Happening in Downtown DSM This Week

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is full of energy this week, offering an exciting line-up to brighten your winter days! Get ready to cheer courtside at an Iowa Wolves basketball game, soak in the elegance of the Des Moines Symphony and show off your competitive side in a spirited bags tournament. Add a cozy beer brunch and a bundled-up bike ride for a cause, and you’ve got the ultimate recipe for a week filled with fun and energy.

Whether you’re seeking thrilling action, musical brilliance or community camaraderie, Downtown DSM delivers for everyone. Dive into this week’s highlights and start planning your next adventure!

Iowa Wolves: YPC Night & Disability Empowerment Night

Friday, Feb. 7, 2025 | Wells Fargo Arena
Don’t miss the Iowa Wolves Basketball Game this Friday, including both YPC Night and Disability Empowerment Night. Starting at 5:30 p.m., young professionals can connect at YPC’s 2025 Kick-Off Party at Wells Fargo Arena. Enjoy courtside tickets, bottomless popcorn and chips, post-game basketball shootouts and access to the courtside bar. Cheer on the Iowa Wolves as they take on the Stockton Kings with the theme “Basketball for All;” Disability Empowerment Night is presented by and in benefit of Special Olympics Iowa. Grab your tickets now!
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She’s Crafty: All Female Beastie Boys Tribute

Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025 | Wooly’s
Get ready to fight for your right to party at Wooly’s with She’s Crafty: Chicago’s All-Female Beastie Boys Tribute! Featuring MCAmy, MagRock, Ken D and DJ ENRG, this powerhouse group pays homage to the legendary Beastie Boys with unmatched energy and skill. Celebrate the spirit of Adam “MCA” Yauch and the band’s iconic legacy in an inclusive, high-energy atmosphere where everyone’s invited to groove. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the show starts at 9 p.m. Don’t miss this epic night in Downtown DSM!
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Looking for more to do this week in Downtown DSM? You might be interested in Galentine’s Day Swiftie Skate at Brenton Skating Plaza or the Galentine’s Party at Rollins Mansion (just outside of Downtown DSM).

Barrel Aged Beer Brunch

Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025 | el Bait Shop
Get ready for a beer lover’s dream at the 11th Annual Barrel Aged Beer Brunch at El Bait Shop! Enjoy one of two exclusive sessions (9 a.m. to Noon, or 1 to 4 p.m.) in a private, cozy setting. Your ticket includes reserved seating, a punch card for 12 three-ounce samples of incredible barrel-aged beers, a hearty brunch featuring biscuits and gravy, bacon, pancakes and more, plus a commemorative event mug and 50% off lunch items. Gather your crew and book a table for this flavorful fusion of craft beer and brunch. This is an event you don’t want to miss!
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If you're on the hunt for a rockin’ good time in Downtown DSM, you might also be interested in The Fur Ride from Ricochet to Big Grove Brewery. Get moving, get biking, get groovin’, all for a great cause! All proceeds benefit Above + Beyond Cancer’s programs for cancer survivors and caregivers.

Des Moines Symphony: Chen Conducts Rachmaninoff

Saturday & Sunday, Feb. 8-9, 2025 | Des Moines Civic Center
Experience an unforgettable musical performance as Mei-Ann Chen conducts the Des Moines Symphony at the Civic Center! The concert opens with Florence Price’s vibrant Dance of the Canebrakes, followed by Anne Marie McDermott’s stunning rendition of Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1. The evening concludes with Rachmaninoff’s powerful Symphonic Dances, a dramatic masterpiece. Don’t miss your chance to experience this celebration of musical brilliance with two shows to choose from: Saturday, Feb. 8 at 7:30 p.m. or Sunday, Feb. 9 at 2:30 p.m.
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Des Moines Downtown Chamber of Commerce Bags Tournament

Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025 | River Center
Get ready to toss, compete and have a blast at the Des Moines Downtown Chamber of Commerce Bags Tournament! This lively event takes place on Thursday at the River Center and promises an exciting mix of friendly competition and good times. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just playing for fun, this tournament is the perfect way to connect with the Downtown DSM community. Gather your team and register today to join the action!
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For even more events happening in Downtown DSM this February, 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.