Honoring Veterans for Veterans Day in Downtown Des Moines

Veterans Day in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is a time for the community to come together in honor of the brave men and women who have served our country. From special events and thoughtful ways to pay tribute, to visiting local memorials dedicated to veterans and military personnel, there are so many opportunities in Downtown DSM to reflect on their sacrifices and express gratitude. Plus, local businesses are offering specials and perks as a small token of appreciation for veterans and military members. Here’s your guide to everything happening around Downtown DSM this Veterans Day!

Events

This Veterans Day, explore events in Downtown DSM that honor those who have served our country. From reflective ceremonies to community gatherings, these occasions offer meaningful opportunities to pay tribute to veterans and their sacrifices. It’s a chance to show gratitude and support for our military heroes.

Folds of Honor Iowa Cornhole Tournament

Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024 | The Shop DSM Event Center
Get ready for some wild and competitive fun at the first-ever Folds of Honor Iowa Cornhole Tournament, hosted at The Shop DSM! Proceeds will support scholarships for the children and spouses of Iowa’s fallen or disabled military service members and first responders. Thirty teams will compete in a double elimination, with awesome prizes awarded to the top teams. Enjoy Farm Boys BBQ, drinks and college football on multiple screens. Join for an afternoon of fun while honoring vets plus first responders, while supporting their families, too!
app.scoreholio.com

Star Spangled Salute to Veterans

Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024 | Des Moines Civic Center
The Star-Spangled Salute to Veterans is a free concert at the Des Moines Civic Center featuring the Iowa Military Veterans Band. Composed of 80 military veterans, the performance includes music from legendary composers like John Philip Sousa, Karl King, George Cohan and Irving Berlin, as well as original compositions by Maestro Jim Goodwin, CWO (RET). This special concert is dedicated to honoring Iowa’s military veterans.
desmoinesperformingarts.org

 

Des Moines Latino Film Festival: Heroes Around the Corner

Monday, Nov. 11, 2024 | Franklin Avenue Library Just outside Downtown DSM, the Des Moines Latino Film Festival is hosting a special Veterans Day screening of Heroes Around the Corner, a short documentary honoring Mexican-American veterans from around the metro. Produced by Vince Valdez, a lifelong West Des Moines resident, the 23-minute film highlights the contributions of these veterans. Valdez will discuss the film and answer audience questions, with a musical performance by singer-guitarist Karin Stein of Artes Latinas. This event offers a meaningful tribute through film and music to honor veterans.
dmpl.org

Mindfulness Meditation Presented by Supportive Services for Veteran Families

Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024 | Central Library
Join a special Mindfulness Meditation session led by Erin Husmann, a certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher and Health Care Navigator for Primary Health Care’s Supportive Services for Veteran Families program. The program will include an overview of mindfulness meditation, followed by a 20-minute practice and a Q&A session. Chair seating will be available, or guests can bring their own cushions or blankets. It’s a great opportunity for veterans and community members to experience the benefits of mindfulness and practice self-care.
dmpl.org

Iowa Wild - Veterans Appreciation Night

Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024 | Wells Fargo Arena Get your tickets to the Iowa Wild Veterans Appreciation Night to honor those who have served! The Iowa Wild will face off against the Texas Stars, featuring specialty jerseys, a post-game auction benefiting the Mid-Iowa Council Boy Scouts of America and a hat giveaway for the first 1,500 fans. Enjoy live music from the Birdchild Duo during the Coca-Cola Local Concert Series and take advantage of 2-for-1 Confluence beers until puck drop. Don’t miss this exciting and meaningful night! And mark your calendar for Military Appreciation Night which is set for Jan. 31, 2025, when the Iowa Wild will take on the Springfield Thunderbirds.
iowawild.com

 

Reflect

Take a moment to explore the memorials and monuments honoring veterans and military personnel. These meaningful sites, all located in Downtown DSM, pay tribute to the courage, dedication and sacrifices of those who have served our country.

A Veteran's Prayer for Eternal Peace – A 15-foot-high bronze sculpture of cupped hands symbolizes peace and reflection at the center of a memorial for military chaplains. The circular plaza features benches, chaplain depictions and religious symbols, creating a serene space for contemplation.

Iowa Vietnam War Memorial – Dedicated in 1984, this monument honors the 869 Iowa veterans who lost their lives in the Vietnam War. Modeled after the national memorial in Washington, D.C., it serves as a poignant tribute to their ultimate sacrifice.

World War II Memorial Plaza – This memorial honors those who served in World War II. The 50-foot flame and Freedom Walk guide visitors through pivotal historical moments, including a special tribute to Iowans who sacrificed their lives during the Pearl Harbor attack.

Grand Army of the Republic Sundial - This bronze sundial honors Union veterans of the Civil War. A timeless tribute, it stands as a reminder of their service and sacrifice, capturing the spirit of the soldiers who shaped our nation’s history.

Combat Wounded Veterans - Dedicated to all men and women wounded in all our wars, this monument serves as in solemn recognition of the courage and sacrifices of America’s combat wounded.

Iowa Revolutionary War Monument - This monument (shown above) honors the legacy and courage of those who fought for independence and is dedicated to the soldiers and patriots of the American Revolution who are laid to rest in Iowa.

Korean War Monument - Honoring the 85,314 Iowans who served in the Korean War and their families, this monument is a solemn dedication to the 508 Iowans who made the ultimate sacrifice. May their legacy and sacrifices never be forgotten.

War of the Rebellion Monument - Iowa’s tribute to the courage, patriotism and distinguished service of all her soldiers and sailors who served during the Civil War from 1861 to 1865.

Specials & Perks for Vets

Many Downtown DSM businesses are offering specials to honor those who have served. Veterans can enjoy free meals, coffee, discounted admission and more as a token of appreciation for their service. Check out these Downtown DSM businesses with special offers and perks available this Veterans Day:

Des Moines Botanical Garden Veteran’s Free Visit Day - In honor of Veterans Day, all active and retired veterans receive complimentary general admission on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 

Fourth + Court Hy-Vee Annual Veterans Breakfast + 15% Off Grocery Purchases – The 25th Annual Veterans Day Breakfast is on Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, from 6 to 10 a.m., offering a free breakfast for veterans. In addition, veterans and active-duty military members will receive 15% off their grocery purchases in support of the Hy-Vee Homefront initiative.

Meals for Vets at Big Grove Brewery - All Veterans, active-duty service members and Gold Star family members are eligible for a complimentary meal at Big Grove in Downtown Des Moines on Monday, Nov. 11, 2024. Additionally, the brewery is holding a blood drive in partnership with the American Red Cross from 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

 

The Poke Company - The Poke Company's Des Moines location offers a 20% discount year-round for veterans, active-duty military and first responders.

Science Center of Iowa Discounted Membership – Active military and first responders can take advantage of $10 off any Science Center of Iowa membership year-round.

West Elm 15% Discount - All active duty and retired military personnel and their families can take advantage of a 15% military discount for entire in-store purchases.

Find a list of veteran-owned businesses from around the region and show your support by patronizing these local businesses. It’s a great way to give back to veterans and their families while enjoying the wonderful products and services they offer!

Recently moved to Des Moines or thinking about relocating? Explore these valuable resources for military members and veterans in the region. Whether you need support services, community connections or job opportunities, these local resources are here to help make your transition smoother and connect you with fellow vets.

Find tips and tricks for navigating Downtown Des Moines (DSM) and finding parking and info on how to get around. Plus, follow @downtownDSMUSA on Instagram for more happenings around Downtown DSM.