Free Things To Do in Downtown Des Moines: October Edition

The best of fall is yet to come! The crisp autumn air and colorful trees make for the perfect backdrop for these five totally free events coming up during October in Downtown Des Moines (DSM).

Movies Under the Stars at Big Grove

Every Tuesday, Oct. 1 - Oct. 29, 2024 | Big Grove Brewery 
Big Grove is bringing you free spooky movies on their patio this month! BYOBlanket to sit on (no folding chairs please). They’ll have the firepits heated up, and popcorn ready to share! 

• Tuesday, Oct. 1: Hocus Pocus
• Tuesday, Oct. 8: Halloweentown
• Tuesday, Oct. 15: The Goonies
• Tuesday, Oct. 22: DOUBLE FEATURE – Lisa Frankenstein & IT
• Tuesday, Oct. 29: DOUBLE FEATURE – Scooby Doo Spooky Island & Scream
  

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Downtown Farmers’ Market

Saturdays, Oct. 5 – 26, 2024 | Historic Court District
October brings new hours for the much-loved Downtown Farmers’ Market! The opening bell will ring at 8 a.m. for the remainder of the season, continuing until Noon each Saturday throughout October. Fall is the perfect time to browse your favorite seasonal items like pumpkins, fresh-picked apples, warm clothing, homey décor and more. Plus, live entertainment like music and performance arts makes this a can’t-miss stop on our list of free things to do in Downtown DSM during October. Pro Tip: Plan your visit in advance by browsing the vendors on-deck each week. And be sure to mark your calendar for the Winter Farmers’ Market set to take shape Friday, Nov. 17 through Sunday, Nov. 19 at Hy-Vee Hall in Downtown DSM.
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Pumpkin Carving Content

Thursday, Oct. 10 – Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024 | Exile Brewing Co. 
Bring your own carved pumpkin to Exile for a photo, and it will be added to their display on the patio! Everyone who participates will get a BOGO beer token to redeem at Exile, plus the best pumpkin will win a $150 Exile gift card. And ... peep for a reservation at the pop-up experience, The Haunting at Exile, while you’re at it! Plus, bring the kiddos to take advantage of free mini pumpkin painting on Oct. 19-20 and several other special events this month. 
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IMT Des Moines Marathon

Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024 | Various Downtown DSM Locations
The spirit is contagious! Bring a fun sign and noisemakers to cheer on your favorite athlete.
Don’t know anyone running? No sweat! We promise you’ll have a fun time cheering for all the runners (and you might even recognize a few, too!). With the finish line right on Court Avenue in the Historic Court District, you’ll be swept away with the fun atmosphere as the runners earn their race medal.
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Beggar’s Night

Wednesday. Oct. 30, 2024 | Sherman Hill & Other Downtown Neighborhoods
The Greater Des Moines (DSM) tradition continues this Hallow’s Eve, including trick-or-treating in Downtown neighborhoods. Kiddos and families are encouraged to don their favorite costumes and have a joke ready to share for this sweet occasion.  
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Looking for more fun things to do in Downtown Des Moines this fall? Explore these top places for great fall views around Downtown DSM, including the various bridges in the area. Find a roundup of fall-flavored drinks, places to shop for autumn things, seasonal treats and more!

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.