Week of Thanksgiving in Downtown DSM: 5 Can’t-Miss Events
Get ready for an exciting week of events in Downtown Des Moines (DSM)! With the holiday season kicking off, there’s so much to enjoy — from unique shopping opportunities to thrilling live performances and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re looking to support local businesses, cheer on the Iowa Wolves or experience a fun holiday tradition, this week is packed with can’t-miss events for all ages. Plus, with popular seasonal celebrations making a return, it’s the ideal time to explore the best of Downtown DSM. Check out our roundup of five upcoming events to make the most of your week in the heart of the city!
This Week’s Shopping Opportunities
Explore the vibrant shopping scene in Downtown DSM this week! If you’re on the hunt for the perfect gift or looking to treat yourself, you’ll find plenty of options at one of the charming boutiques or seasonal markets found here in Downtown DSM. Check out this week’s shopping highlights:
Holiday Promenade
Friday, Nov. 22, 2024 | Historic East Village
Kick off the holiday season at the Holiday Promenade in Historic East Village! Enjoy the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. at Brenton Skating Plaza, festive music by the Roosevelt Marching Band, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, opening night at Brenton Skating Plaza and extended holiday shopping hours at shops throughout the East Village. Holiday Promenade continues every Friday through Dec. 20.
Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market
Friday-Sunday, Nov. 22-24, 2024 | Iowa Events Center
The Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market offers seasonal produce, unique holiday gifts and handcrafted art, plus live entertainment and delicious local food — perfect for holiday shopping and celebrating!
Des Moines Makers Market & Bar Hop
Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024 | Big Grove Brewery & Taproom, Lua Brewing & Exile Brewing Co.
Shop 30 local makers with a drink in hand at Big Grove, Lua and Exile breweries! Browse handmade goods like jewelry, art, candles, home décor and more. This is a free, family-friendly event with alcohol available for adults ages 21+.
Small Business Saturday
Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024 | Downtown Des Moines
Celebrate Small Business Saturday in Downtown Des Moines by shopping local boutiques, enjoying cozy seasonal flavors and savoring holiday specials. Support our community’s small businesses as you find unique gifts and treats! While you’re at it, stop at a local restaurant for a bite to eat, too.
Iowa Wolves Basketball Games
Friday and Saturday, Nov. 22-23, 2024 | Wells Fargo Arena
Looking for an affordable, family-friendly outing this weekend in Downtown DSM? Catch the Iowa Wolves as they face the Grand Rapids Gold in back-to-back games at Wells Fargo Arena on Friday and Saturday! Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with tip-off at 6:30 p.m. each night. With a variety of affordable ticket options, fans can enjoy elite basketball action up close, cheering on talented players just steps from the NBA. Bring your friends and family for an exciting night of hoops and hometown spirit in Downtown DSM!
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Des Moines Symphony: Parker Plays Gershwin
Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 23-24, 2024 | Des Moines Civic Center
Pianist Jon Kimura Parker lights up the Civic Center with the vibrant melodies and lively rhythms of Gershwin’s “Concerto in F” alongside the Des Moines Symphony. The performance will also feature “Music from The Celebration: A Symphonic Jubilee” by Des Moines composer Linda Robbins Coleman and Beethoven’s powerful “Symphony No. 7.” Tickets are on sale now.
If you’re free on Friday, Nov. 22 at 4 p.m., don’t miss the opportunity to join Jon Kimura Parker and other musicians for a public master class at the Des Moines Civic Center. This free event offers a unique chance to learn from these talented artists!
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Des Moines Turkey Trot
Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024 | Court Avenue Downtown Des Moines
Don’t miss the 10th Annual Des Moines Turkey Trot, Iowa’s largest Thanksgiving tradition and named a “Top Trot” by Runner’s World! It’s happening in Downtown DSM or virtually with 5K, five mile and Tot Trot options — perfect for runners, walkers and families alike. Starting in the Historic Court District, the route showcases scenic landmarks, including the Des Moines River, Historic East Village and the iconic Iowa State Capitol. The five-mile course extends to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and crosses the Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge, finishing near the historic World Food Prize building. Cheer on participants and enjoy the festive post-race party at Sherman Athlete Village at Cowles Commons!
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Hey! Are you searching for somewhere to enjoy a meal on Thanksgiving Day? Mulberry Street Tavern and Proudfoot & Bird are both open for the holiday in Downtown DSM. Skip the hassle of cooking your own turkey; instead, make a reservation to sit back and enjoy.
Disney On Ice Presents Mickey’s Search Party
Thursday, Nov. 28 – Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024 | Wells Fargo Arena
“Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party” brings the magic to life with thrilling moments on the ice and in the air! This captivating adventure weaves dynamic storytelling with multi-level production numbers, inviting audiences to join Mickey and friends on an unforgettable quest. Wells Fargo Arena hosts nine thrilling performances filled with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and unexpected stunts. Favorite Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Moana and Maui, Miguel from Coco, Aladdin and Jasmine, Woody and friends from Toy Story, and the beloved cast of Frozen make this an epic experience for Disney fans of all ages.
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If you’re looking for even more events in Downtown Des Moines this November, check out this list of Free Things to Do.
For this week’s exciting 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.
Greater Des Moines Partnership
DSM USA is the regional identifier for Greater Des Moines (DSM). DSM USA is a bold statement to the world: This is a welcoming, diverse and vibrant community with affordable and accessible amenities for residents and businesses. This regional identifier is the result of significant quantitative and qualitative research.
The Partnership will champion the DSM USA message, and encourages its Investors, its more than 6,500 Regional Business Members and DSM USA Ambassadors to help share the region's story with One Voice.
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Attractions , Downtown , Downtown Farmers' Market , Festivals and Markets , Gray's Lake , Historic Court Avenue , Historic East Village , Market District , Music and Entertainment , Restaurants and Nightlife , Sherman Hill , Shopping , Sports , Things To Do , Western Gateway Park