Check out this list of events happening in the Des Moines area this weekend, October 6 – October 8. We’ve curated the ones that we found most interesting and listed them here for you.
Disclaimer: Events are subject to change or sell out. Please contact the businesses directly to confirm availability via the links below.
Friday, October 6
Saturday, October 7
Downtown Farmers’ Market
- Saturday, October 7, 7 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Des Moines’ Historic Court District
Your LAST MONTH you can get a taste of the DSM Farmer’s Market! The Downtown Farmers’ Market is an open-air street market located in the Historic Court District in Downtown Des Moines (DSM). Vendors will be set up outdoors on Court Avenue and adjacent side streets. It feels especially huge since it was limited to the pandemic and it’s back to full size. It’s one of the best in the country! Don’t miss it this summer to see some of our absolute favorite small business owners from around the metro.
Iowa State Fair Flea Market
- Saturday, October 7, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- 4-H Exhibits Building, East 30th Street and East University Avenue Des Moines, IA 50317
If you’re like us and experiencing Iowa State Fair withdrawals, then you won’t want to miss the flea market! Featuring vintage goods, home decor, collectibles, bags, and more- new vendors and merchandise are being added to this event every month, once a month. Get a head start on your holiday shopping with the Iowa State Fair flea market.
Global Greens Farmers’ Market
- Saturday, October 7, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
- 1907 Carpenter Ave (at MLK Parkway) in the parking lot of @polkcohealth.
Another extremely important market to hit up – especially if you’re near the Drake neighborhood! Shop for delicious locally-grown produce for you and your family while supporting new Iowans who have a passion for farming! Global Greens Farmers’ Market serves as a platform for former refugees to sell their produce and bolster their small farming businesses. Hosted by Lutheran Services of Iowa.
DUG Unplugged
- Saturday, October 7, doors open at 5:30 p.m., show at 6:30 p.m.
- Dogpatch Urban Gardens, 5085 Meredith Dr, Des Moines, IA 50310
Set up as a “listening show”, get ready for some R&R at Dogpatch this weekend with musicians Sara Routh and D. Smith. Non-alcoholic refreshments will be provided, but you can also BYOB and snacks! Enjoy the urban gardens of Dogpatch and sit back and relax with live music in what looks to be a cool, fall evening.
Heartland Bazaar Vintage Clothing Market
- Saturday, October 7, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Heartland Bazaar Vintage Market, 4211 Chamberlain Ave., Des Moines, IA 50312
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Autumn Welcome Tea + Vintage PopUp
- Des Moines Mercantile, 3707 6th Avenue Des Moines, IA 50313
Ring in the fall season and sip on a cup of tea from Red Dragon Herbs & Teas while you wander around for collectibles, goods, and so much more. Your neighborhood general store is hosting this autumnal event with a popup from GLDN Goods. Adorn your coziest sweater and head over to Des Moines Mercantile this weekend! You never know what you might find.
Olio Oddities: Grand Opening
- Saturday, October 7, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Thistles Summit Bakery (Loft), 340 SW 5th St #122, Des Moines, IA 50309
Sunday, October 8
Vintage Market at Captain Roy’s
- Sunday, October 8, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Captain Roy’s, 1900 Saylor Rd, Des Moines, IA 50313
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The Boho Vase’s 1-Year Birthday Celebration
Celebrate with Boho Vase with their 1-Year Birthday Celebration of their brick + mortar in Ankeny! This locally-owned business has been bringing color to the DSM metro and is hosting a party with vendors from vintage and clothing pop-ups to sweet treats and coffee. Check out their store, grab some goodies, and even take part in a tarot card reading. While you’re there, make sure to head over and visit the other small businesses in the area!
Autumn Pike: Chichaqua Bottoms
“What do you get when you combine the two best things in the world, pies and hikes? Pikes! Join Wander Women and Pie Bird Pies on the tastiest collaboration nature’s ever seen as we wander through our favorite parks in Central Iowa and enjoy Des Moines’ best pies!” Pies + Hikes = <3 Need we say more? Wander Women is hosting their latest pike at Chichaqua Bottoms this Sunday!