How to Participate in the Downtown DSM Silent Disco

Ready to dance under the glow of disco and Downtown Des Moines (DSM)? On Friday, Oct. 14 from 7 – 11 p.m., all ages are invited to Western Gateway Park for the Downtown DSM Silent Disco where attendees connect to three live DJs’ turntables through rented headphones (the headphones are free in exchange for a photo ID — thanks to event sponsors MidAmerican Energy Company and Prairie Meadows. So, what’s the best way to acquire headphones during the Silent Disco, and how do you use them? We cover that and more in the information below:

Renting Headphones

Attendees can rent Silent Disco headphones throughout the duration of the event, free of charge, by exchanging a photo ID. Families can exchange one form of ID for multiple headphones. Look for a white tent on the West side of 13th Street Between Locust Street and Grand Avenue. The tent will have red, green and blue flashing lights and this is where you will trade your ID for headphones. This is also where there will be complimentary hot chocolate available and Chocolaterie Stam will be on-site selling their famous hot chocolate and popcorn throughout the event.

At the end of the night, simply return your headphones to the tent, retrieve your ID and make your way back to your car.

How Headphones Are Sanitized

Headphones are thoroughly sanitized with anti-bacterial wipes between each use. The Partnership will also have wipes available if people would like to wipe their headphones down an additional time.

How to Use the Headphones

It’s easy to use the headphones provided at the Silent Disco! To enjoy the music, follow these easy steps:

1. Put the headphones on. Headphones are adjustable for children and adults.
2. Swipe through your LED headphones that change between three DJ frequencies/colors.
3. Move from station to station to find songs you love and create your own playlist.

The Silent Disco is also a great option for those with sensory and hearing sensitivities, too! Participants can use another dial to control their own volume as they dance. Free glowsticks will also be available at the event to help illuminate the Silent Disco.

Don’t miss the chance to take part in this pop-up event activation. Grab dinner at a nearby local restaurant. From Japanese at Akebono to modern dining at Americana, there are so many options to choose from.

Before you attend, comment on Downtown DSM USA Facebook posts for the event with song requests.

Find more information on the Downtown DSM Silent Disco here.

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is a growing, vibrant community that offers the energy, sophistication, housing and attractions of a burgeoning city with a brilliant future. It’s also easy to visit with plentiful and affordable street and ramp parking options.

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) activations pop up from time to time, and these events provide fun for the whole family! Check out Tweet Week and Adventure Stories across downtown. The 2022 Downtown DSM activations series is sponsored by MidAmerican Energy and Prairie Meadows.