Hooray for May! 5 Can’t-Miss Events in Downtown DSM This Week

Hip hip hooray! Let’s hear it for May in Downtown Des Moines (DSM)! Be sure to take advantage of these five can’t-miss events this week, giving us the first few glimpses of summertime.

Iowa Cubs Baseball

Tuesday, April 30 – Sunday, May 5; Tuesday May 7 – Sunday, May 12 | Principal Park
The Iowa Cubs season is underway! Come early in the season and come often over the next few months for the best action, entertainment and fun. The I-Cubs will take on the Omaha Storm Chasers as well as the Columbus Clippers with several matchups this week and next. Don’t forget, every Friday night home game is followed by live fireworks!
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Photo Credit: Iowa Cubs, Dylan Heuer and Ginnie Coleman

Derby Day

Saturday, May 4 | Peace Tree – Des Moines Branch
Celebrate the Kentucky Derby right here in Downtown Des Moines! Limited edition mint julep beer cocktails will be available, plus the Best Spudz food truck, stick horse races and — of course — the much-anticipated race on TV! Festive hats and attire are strongly encouraged (with prizes, too!).
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Downtown Farmers’ Market

Saturdays, May 4 – October 26 | Historic Court District
Hooray, the unofficial kickoff to summer is finally here! The Downtown Farmers’ Market presented by UnityPoint Health – Des Moines is back and open for the season starting this Saturday. Locals and visitors alike are invited to shop farm fresh foods, ready to eat items, art, jewelry, apparel, decor and much more. Plus, enjoy live music and entertainment while you wander with enjoy a hot coffee or tea in-hand. You’re in for a treat at this festive, can’t-miss market that attracts thousands to Downtown DSM each week from May through October.
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Cinco De Mayo

Saturday, May 5 | Various Downtown Des Moines Establishments
Although Cinco De Mayo primarily celebrates Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla, it is commonly observed as an opportunity to celebrate Mexican culture, as well! One way to enjoy the culture is through Mexican food and drink — including tasty margaritas. We’ve rounded up a list of 12 places in Downtown Des Moines for margaritas. Cheers! [Pictured below: A yummy marg from Coa Cantina!]
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Ring in Peace World Launch

Sunday, May 5 | Iowa State Capitol Grounds
Join other neighbors and community members at the Japanese Bell of Peace and Friendship for a world launch of “Ring in Peace.” From this day forward, people from around the world are encouraged to ring a bell at Noon every day to bring awareness and intention to reaching world peace.
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Looking for more to explore? Here’s a list of five totally free things to do in Downtown Des Moines during May.

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.