Check out this list of events happening in the Des Moines area this weekend, December 6-8. We’ve curated the ones that we found most interesting and listed them here for you. Scroll to the end for the 411 on our next Pitch a Friend!
Disclaimer: Events are subject to change or sell out. Please contact the businesses directly to confirm availability via the links below.
Featured Image: Photo by Sam Battaglieri on Unsplash
Featured Event
Jolly Holiday Lights at Iowa State Fairgrounds
- All weekend! 5:30 – 10 p.m. on weekends
- Iowa State Fairgrounds, Enter at Gate 2 at the intersection of E University Avenue and E 33rd St
Is it even December without Jolly Holiday Lights? This year, visitors can look forward to a stunning selection of holiday displays, both familiar and new, at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. As you make your way through the fairgrounds, each display will light up the night and capture the spirit of the season just like you remember from past years. And don’t forget, since you stay in your car, you can make this an extra cozy family outing! Bring along a thermos of hot chocolate and enjoy the magic of the season together. Tickets are based on vehicle, $20 per car! $50 per bus or limo if you want to roll up fancy with all your friends.
Friday, December 6
First Friday at Mainframe Studios: Ceramics Invitational
- Friday, December 6, 5-8 p.m.
- Mainframe Studios,
We love everything about Mainframe, but especially on the First Fridays of the month. Whether you’re a ceramic enthusiast, an art collector, searching for a one-of-a-kind gift this holiday season, or simply looking for a fun way to spend the night there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to meet the artists, engage with their work, and find the perfect piece to take home.
Christkindl Market
- December 5-8
- Principal Park, 1 Line Drive, Des Moines, IA 50309
Want a taste of European christmas markets in DSM? This weekend ONLY, peruse the classic German-inspired Christkindlmarket at Principal Park. This 750-year old tradition (not in DSM, we aren’t that old lol) is a staple shopping centre full of sights, smells and wonderful gift ideas. Enjoy lively polka music, browse vendors selling handcrafted items, and try a mug of steaming hot Glühwein.
Pella’s Dutch Christmas Market
- Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7
- Molengracht Plaza, 700 Main St., Pella, IA
The Des Moines Christmas market isn’t enough for you? Head down to Pella. They’re hosting their 4th annual Kerstmarkt – a Dutch Christmas Market! There’s tons of festivities happening all weekend in Pella, including “Merry Martini Huis” at the Pella Opera House for four seasonal martinis.
East Village Holiday Promenade
- Friday, December 6, 5-8 p.m.
- Historic East Village
It’s that time of year again for the Holiday Promenade in the Historic East Village! Our favorite neighborhood is all dressed up and feeling jolly. Almost every single business will have extended hours to make sure you can get your holiday shopping done! Check out this week’s specials at the link below.
Saturday, December 7
Local Holiday Makers Market
- Saturday, December 7, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Valley Community Center, 4444 Fuller Road, West Des Moines, IA 50265
This is the perfect opportunity to find unique, locally crafted gifts for everyone on your list while supporting our talented local makers. From handmade crafts, to cozy home decor, one-of-a-kind jewelry, and homemade dog treats, there’s truly something for everyone with more than 80 local vendors and artists in attendance!
Creative Artists’ Studios of Ames Holiday Art Sale
- Saturday, December 7, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- 130 S. Sheldon Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50014
Want even more markets? Head up to Ames! Creative Artists’ Studios of Ames (CASA) invites the community to its annual Holiday Art Sale. The sale will be held on the main level of the building and occupy three rooms filled with handmade artwork from ceramics and fiber art to vibrant 2D and 3D works, all created by our talented CASA artists. CASA is a non-profit arts organization and has nearly 40 members. Its mission is to foster a community of local artists through creating, education, exhibitions and its open house events.
Holiday Mini Market at Rumors DSM
- Saturday, December 7, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Rumors, 4211 Chamberlain Ave, Des Moines, IA
We love all of Rumors’ markets throughout the year, but this mini market is a perfect excuse to stop by. In addition to shopping a wide array of vintage and getting in the Holiday spirit with vintage Christmas tunes and decor, get your own custom stocking made while you shop!
Mimosa and Manifest with Hire DSM
- Saturday, December 7, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- 650 S Prairie View Drive #205, West Des Moines, IA, 50266
Vision board session anyone? Kick off your weekend with a refreshing blend of creativity, connection, and inspiration at Mimosa & Manifest! This empowering event combines the fun of a mimosa bar, the joy of a light brunch, and the power of intentional goal-setting through a vision board-making session.
Despicable Me Themed Brunch at Truman’s KC Pizza Tavern
- Saturday, December 7, 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12:30 a.m.
- Truman’s, 400 SE 6th St., Des Moines, IA
Need a family friendly outing that’s a bit more low key than holiday pop-ups? Or just love minions and any excuse to celebrate them? Stop by Truman’s on Saturday morning for a fun themed brunch. They’ve got their breakfast menu going with a few holiday specials.
Ugly Holiday Sweater Party at Republic on Grand
- Saturday, December 7, 8-11 p.m.
- Republic on Grand in AC Hotel, 401 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
Who are we if we didn’t love an ugly sweater party? Don your best holiday outfit and head to Rudolph’s rooftop for live music, festive drinks, and enough twinkle to make the North Pole jealous. No reservations! First come, first served.
Sunday, December 8
515 Brewing’s Holiday Pop Up Market
- Sunday, December 8, 1-5 p.m.
- 515 Brewing Company,
Celebrate the holiday season with the 515 Brewing Company Holiday Popup Market, co-hosted by Art Is Rad! Each Sunday in December, from 1-5 p.m., the brewery transforms into a festive marketplace featuring 4-6 unique vendors weekly. This week’s vendors are: Culebra Creations 🌊: Jewelry made from sea glass and shells / Healing Lotus Massage 🌸: Vegan skincare and confections / Crafting of the Wicked Kind 🧪: Apothecary-inspired good / InkjoyCreations ✨: Vibrant, lively art / Scrolling by Katelyn 📜: Intricate scroll art and gifts / Knitamathings 🧶: Cozy knitted and crocheted goods
A Charlie Brown Christmas at xBk Live
- Sunday, December 8, Doors at 2 p.m. / Show at 3 p.m.
- xBk Live, 1159 24th St, Des Moines, IA 50311
“Join the Peter Roberts band on a musical exploration of “A Charlie Brown Christmas”. Peter and his band of stellar jazz musicians not only bring the classic music to life, but detail the stories about the specials creation. Come hear the memorable music and find out why the predicted flop has aired every year since its premiere in 1965.”
Iowa Wild vs. Milwaukee Admirals
- Sunday, December 8, 3 p.m.
- Wells Fargo Arena, 233 Center St, Des Moines, IA 50309
SPORTS FANS! Hockey is here this weekend. It is the Iowa Wild against the Milwaukee Admirals on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon. There will be a youth jersey giveaway for the first 1,500 kids ages 12 and under!
NEXT PITCH A FRIEND ON THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12
- Thursday, December 12, 7 – 10 p.m.
- SingleSpeed Brewing Co., 303 Scott Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
