This Week’s Entertainment & Can’t-Miss Events in Downtown DSM: Oct. 18-24

If you’re looking for something fun to do in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) this week, you’re in luck because the city is packed with events that’ll keep you entertained! Whether you’re into live performances, cheering on marathoners or diving into amazing stories … find it here!

Ballet Des Moines presents Movimiento, a dynamic celebration of LatinX and Afro-Caribbean cultures through dance. And with the IMT Des Moines Marathon happening this weekend, the energy will be contagious whether you’re running or cheering from the sidelines. Plus, bestselling author Daniel Kraus will be at Central Library to chat about his latest spooky novel, just in time for Halloween.

So grab your calendar, because Downtown DSM is buzzing with excitement!

Ballet Des Moines Presents Movimiento

Friday, Oct. 18 – Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024 | Hoyt Sherman Place
Ballet Des Moines is bringing the heat with Movimiento, a high-energy triple bill that celebrates the vibrant diversity of LatinX and Afro-Caribbean artists. Expect fresh, cutting-edge choreography from the talented Katlyn Addison and Mariana Oliveira, with brand-new pieces that’ll blow you away. To top it off, Colombian musician Juan Sebastian Ramirez Espinosa will be performing live, adding even more soul and rhythm to the show. It’s an exciting, can’t-miss tribute to the creativity and culture of these incredible artists!
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IMT Des Moines Marathon

Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024 | Downtown Des Moines
The IMT Des Moines Marathon is not just for runners — it’s a perfect event for spectators to get in on the excitement and show some love for the athletes. Whether you’re cheering along participants of the marathon, half marathon, marathon relay or 5K, the atmosphere is electric. Grab a spot along the course, make some noise and help to motivate the runners as they push through their miles. The energy from the crowd can make all the difference! After the race, celebrate with the athletes at the finish line as they cross an incredible milestone. It’s a great opportunity to be part of a supportive community and share in the accomplishment of these dedicated runners in Downtown DSM!
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Des Moines Storytellers Project

Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024 | Hoyt Sherman Place
The Des Moines Storytellers Project is all about real people sharing real stories. Hosted by Des Moines Register journalists, these live storytelling nights feature neighbors and local notables telling true, first-person tales. The Register’s award-winning team helps storytellers pull out their most authentic, personal experiences and turn them into engaging, powerful narratives. It’s a chance to connect with the community, hear some amazing stories, and maybe even be inspired to share your own. Because at the end of the day, everyone’s got a story worth telling — and this is where they can come to life.
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Fall Author Series: Daniel Kraus

Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024 | Central Library
Get ready for some chills and thrills at the final Des Moines Public Library Fall Author Series event, just in time for Halloween! Bestselling author Daniel Kraus is stopping by the Central Library in Downtown Des Moines to talk about his newest novel, Pay the Piper, a spine-tingling supernatural horror set in a cursed Louisiana bayou. Fun fact: The story was originally started by horror icon George A. Romero, and Kraus stepped in to finish it! After the event, you can grab a signed copy of the book — available for purchase thanks to Beaverdale Books. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Whalefall or The Shape of Water, or just looking for a spooky good time, this free event is one you won’t want to miss!
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Grupo Bella

Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024 | Temple Theater
Get ready for an unforgettable night of music at the Temple Theater in Downtown Des Moines with Grupo Bella! This talented ensemble from Los Angeles has been making waves since 2011 with their incredible musicianship and a repertoire that goes way beyond traditional Mariachi. Sure, they’ve got those classic Mariachi roots, but Grupo Bella loves to mix it up, blending music from different cultures, decades, plus both Latin American and American styles. They’ve wowed audiences across Southern California, the U.S., and Mexico — performing everywhere from festivals to the Smithsonian. Whether you’re a fan of Mariachi or just love great music, this is one show you won’t want to miss!
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And don’t miss the last two weekends of the Downtown Farmers’ Market! Set your alarm and get down to Court Avenue from 8 a.m. - Noon this Saturday!

If you’re looking for even more events in Downtown Des Moines this October, check out this list of Free Things to Do.

For this week’s events and more, find tips on Downtown Des Moines (DSM) parking and navigation. For additional events coming up in Downtown DSM, visit the events calendar. Plus, follow @downtownDSMUSA on Instagram for even more things-you-just-can’t-miss happening around Downtown.