This Week’s Must-Do Holiday Magic Events in Downtown DSM: Dec. 13-19

_{Header image courtesy Des Moines Parks & Recreation.}

This week, Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is brimming with holiday cheer and exciting events to brighten your season! From family-friendly festivities and outdoor adventures to elegant celebrations and community-focused gatherings, there’s truly a little holiday magic for all to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to make memories with loved ones, explore the city or embrace the spirit of giving, Downtown DSM is the place to be this holiday season. Read on to discover the can’t-miss events happening this week that will fill your calendar with holiday magic!

Historic Holidays

Friday & Saturday, Dec. 13-14, 2024 | Des Moines Heritage Center  
Step back in time and celebrate the season at the Historic Holiday at the Heritage Center! This two-day event is packed with festive fun for all ages. On Friday from 5 to 8 p.m., explore intricate model trains by DesMoiNTrak, vintage Christmas decorations and miniature replicas of historic Des Moines landmarks. Then, on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Santa Claus makes a special appearance! Enjoy storytime sessions at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., plus a free photo with Santa. Don’t miss this delightful holiday celebration filled with nostalgia and cheer.
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Capital City Pride Holiday Movie Night

Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024 | Science Center of Iowa
Get ready for a magical movie night! On Saturday from 5:30 to 9 p.m., enjoy Capital City Pride’s family-friendly holiday movie showing of The Polar Express. Enjoy exclusive access to the Science Center’s first floor, featuring the brick-by-brick Lego builders area and a sock skating rink. Snacks and drinks will be provided. And the best part? It’s completely free! Be sure to RSVP to ensure there’s plenty of popcorn, drinks and treats ready for your family!
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Jingle Bell Stroll

Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024 | Gray's Lake Park
Mark your calendar for the Jingle Bell Stroll this Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m.! Designed especially for children 13 and under, this FREE event is packed with holiday cheer. Stroll along a festive, holiday-themed loop, enjoy games and craft stations, snap a photo with Santa and sip on delicious hot chocolate while listening to festive tunes. Bring your family and friends to celebrate the season, create magical memories and soak in the joy and laughter of the holidays. Jingle and stroll together for the holidays!
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Photo Credit: Des Moines Parks & Recreation

If you’re looking for other opportunities to see Santa in Downtown DSM this week, don’t miss Brunch with Santa at Willow on Grand and Fleet Feet’s Santa Run 5K. 

Momentum DSM Holiday DART Crawl

Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024 | DART Central Station
Hop aboard for the second annual Holiday DART Crawl! This festive event is a unique way to celebrate the holiday season while supporting local small businesses and embracing the joy of transit. Ride DART buses making stops at unique local shops, spreading holiday cheer and discovering hidden gems throughout the community. It’s a fun and festive concept to connect with others, explore the city and celebrate the spirit of the season. Don’t miss out! Grab your friends, bundle up and enjoy a memorable day of holiday fun and community spirit!
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Des Moines Ballroom Holiday Ball

Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024 | Scottish Rite Consistory  
The cherished Holiday Ball tradition lives on, and this year promises to be unforgettable! Hosted by Downtown DSM’s Des Moines Ballroom, the event will feature the spectacular sounds of the Gaylin Sudik Big Band, setting the perfect rhythm for an evening of elegance and celebration. Guests will also enjoy captivating performances from special guest artists. Your ticket includes a delicious dinner, making it a full evening of festive indulgence. Don’t forget to dress to impress and bring your dancing shoes. It’s time to make magical holiday memories on the dance floor!
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We think you might also be interested in a holiday dance party at Splash Seafood Bar & Grill in Downtown DSM!

Don’t miss Hide & Seek Ornaments You Keep — a fun, free pop-up activity where local artists hide handmade ornaments in various Downtown DSM locations, happening each day through December 15.

And for more festive fun, just outside Downtown DSM, check out:

• Baile Navideño en La Feria de Iowa at the Iowa State Fairgrounds
• Holiday Movie Showings at Fleur Cinema
• The Peppermint Trail at The Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand
• Holiday High Tea at the Castle 

For these events and more, find tips on Downtown Des Moines (DSM) parking and navigation. For additional events and seasonal festivities 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.