Free Things to Do in Downtown Des Moines: November Edition

‘Tis the season starts now! November marks the beginning of the holidays in Downtown Des Moines (DSM), and that brings several free and fun things to do as the season changes from fall to the first few glimpses of winter. No matter the season, one thing remains: There’s plenty to do in Downtown DSM!

Free Downtown Art Events in November

• November First Friday at Mainframe Studios: Friday, Nov. 1, 2024 
• “Seed Scoops in My Drive” Exhibit at Polk County Heritage Gallery: Now – Friday, Nov. 28, 2024 
• “Faces in the Crowd” Art Exhibit at the Fitch Building: Opening Reception on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024 with exhibit-on-display dates to follow until Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024 

Dia de Los Muertos Celebration

Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024 | Central Library
You’re invited to celebrate the Day of the Dead in Downtown DSM. Attendees are encouraged to dress in the style of La Catrina. Learn about this Mexican cultural tradition, sample some tasty food like tamales, pan de muerto, and Mexican hot chocolate. Enjoy crafts, a special Luchador Storytime for kids, a showing of the Disney movie Coco and lots more! All ages welcome. This no-cost event is in partnership with Latinx Immigrants of Iowa and Knock and Drop Iowa, with sponsorship from Reyes Tamales, Refugee & Immigrant Voices in Action and Broadlawns Medical Center. (Psst! Don’t miss the Dia de los Muertos exhibit at the library (last year's is pictured below), available now through Monday, Nov. 4, 2024 as well as the I Spy: Dia de los Muertos youth interactive activity available now through Thursday, Nov. 10, 2024.)
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Star-Spangled Salute to Veterans

Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024 | Des Moines Civic Center
In observance of Veteran’s Day, the Iowa Military Veterans Band will perform a traditional concert in honor of all veterans. The event kicks off at 2 p.m. and is a free, non-ticketed event open to the public.
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Winter Market

Friday, Nov. 22 – Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024 | Historic Court District
Your favorite Downtown Farmers’ Market will continue with a pop-up Winter Market for three days only, taking place over one weekend in November. Shop late-season produce, farm fresh meat, cheese and eggs, jams and jellies, salsas, holiday décor, local handcrafted gifts and many more goodies. Snag a warm drink, stroll through the booths in Hall C at Iowa Events Center and get your fill of your favorite vendor items like handmade candles, wreaths from Floral Sunset Farm and special holiday goods while you enjoy local musicians and other live entertainment.
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Holiday Promenade

Fridays, Nov. 22 – Dec. 20, 2024 | Historic East Village
The beloved and free holiday event in the Historic East Village is back for its 22nd year. Find holiday cheer in Downtown DSM with free seasonal activities, holiday entertainment and family-friendly fun — including the annual tree lighting! Be sure to pop into the shops and restaurants in the Village to support local businesses, too. Featured events include: Nov. 22 – Tree Lighting Ceremony at Brenton Skating Plaza, Nov. 29 – Artist Window Decorating, Dec. 6 – Scavenger Hunt, Dec. 13 – Santa's Workshop and Dec. 20 – Promenade Finale!
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Friendly reminder: Small Business Saturday takes place on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024 this year. Mark your calendar to visit the local and unique shops around Downtown DSM for your holiday purchases.

Coming soon: The annual Hide & Seek Ornaments You Keep campaign will take place in December. Exact dates and details will be available in the coming weeks.

Looking for ideas on where to shop this holiday season? Take a look at the North + Central, South, West and East Buying Guides for shops, restaurants and services around the region and downtown, too! And as the weather changes, you’ll want to be prepared for what’s to come. 

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.