Embrace the Season: Winter Events and Local Shopping in DSM

It’s hard to believe we have colder months approaching given the wonderful fall weather, but the Greater Des Moines Partnership is gearing up to offer a series of exciting winter events to bring the community together and highlight local businesses this holiday season. Whether you are looking to explore the best seasonal markets, enjoy holiday festivities or simply embrace the winter spirit, there is something for everyone.

Shop Local in Downtown Des Moines

Holiday Promenade helps kick off the holiday season in the Historic East Village each Friday from Nov. 22 – Dec. 20, 2024. This is the perfect opportunity to shop locally and enjoy festive activities. Each Friday brings something special, from kicking off the event with a tree lighting ceremony to Santa Claus making appearances, holiday story time and even trolley rides each week around the Historic East Village. Plus, don’t miss out on a scavenger hunt, a fun way to engage the whole family while supporting local retailers. Learn more and watch for updates at holidaypromenade.com.

For those looking to support Iowa farmers and artisans, the Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market presented by UnityPoint Health – Des Moines will be back on Saturday, Nov. 22 – 24, 2024  at the Iowa Events Center in Downtown Des Moines (DSM). It’s the perfect place to find seasonal produce, specialty foods and handcrafted items, just in time for your holiday gatherings. Learn more and watch for updates at desmoinesfarmersmarket.com.

If you enjoy a bit of an adventure, the Hide and Seek Ornaments You Keep scavenger hunt runs from Friday, Dec. 6 – Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024. Local artists will hide handmade ornaments throughout the region. It’s a great way to explore different areas in our 11-county region while searching for unique treasures to keep as souvenirs of the season. This is an ideal opportunity to shop local by purchasing from a local restaurant or coffee shop while you’re on the hunt around the communities. Stay tuned to The Partnership’s website for more information closer to the activation.

Shop Local Across the Region

Communities across our 11-county region are hosting holiday gathering and shopping events, from the Jingle in the Junction event in West Des Moines to the Kerstmarkt in Pella to the Winter Solstice Market in Winterset. Learn about events in your community from your local chamber of commerce. Find information on all 23 Partnership Affiliate Chambers of Commerce at DSMpartnership.com/affiliates.

Looking for more ways to support small businesses? DSM Local is an initiative from The Partnership that is focused on driving more investment to local small businesses across Greater Des Moines (DSM) and encourages people to shop locally. The campaign aims to showcase the crucial role small businesses play in DSM and inform the public about the benefits and opportunities of doing business locally — all to help small businesses thrive. That’s what DSM Local is all about — encouraging us to shop nearby and keep our dollars circulating in local economies. Every purchase you make here helps our small businesses thrive.

Don't know where to start? The Partnership offers a Membership Directory that has everything from local shops to wellness businesses, so you can explore and support businesses around the region. Plus, you can find more places to visit in our Affiliate Chamber directory, where you will find hidden gems and holiday favorites. Learn more about DSM Local by visiting DSMpartnership.com/DSMlocal.

Let’s celebrate the season by supporting local and experiencing the best of what our community has to offer.

You can learn more about these upcoming winter events by visiting DSMpartnership.com/downtowndsmusa, subscribing to the Downtown Newsletter or on social media.

The Greater Des Moines Partnership Board is made up of Greater Des Moines (DSM) leaders and industry experts. The Board is united in driving economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region.