Des Moines, IA

Des Moines, Iowa, might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of bustling event hubs, but this Midwest gem has a knack for surprising visitors and locals alike. With a vibrant mix of cultural festivals, world-class concerts, thrilling sports, and captivating theater, Des Moines is a city that knows how to keep its calendar packed and its community engaged. Whether you’re a lifelong Iowan or just passing through, the city’s biggest venues and diverse events offer something for everyone.

Why Des Moines Shines as an Event Destination

Des Moines is more than just the capital of Iowa—it’s a cultural crossroads where small-town charm meets big-city energy. The city’s event scene reflects its unique blend of heartland hospitality and cosmopolitan flair. From the roar of the crowd at a hockey game to the standing ovations at a Broadway show, Des Moines delivers experiences that rival those of much larger metros. Its venues, ranging from historic theaters to modern arenas, are the backbone of this lively scene, hosting everything from chart-topping musicians to local festivals that celebrate Iowa’s rich heritage.

What makes Des Moines stand out? It’s the accessibility and variety. You can catch a world-renowned artist one night and a quirky local festival the next, all within a compact, easy-to-navigate city. Plus, the venues are top-notch, offering state-of-the-art facilities and intimate settings that make every event feel personal. Let’s take a closer look at the biggest venues and the types of events that keep Des Moines buzzing year-round.

The Biggest Venues in Des Moines

Des Moines is home to a handful of standout venues that anchor its event landscape. These spaces are where the magic happens—where crowds gather to cheer, sing, laugh, and celebrate. Here’s a rundown of the city’s premier spots for events.

Casey’s Center (Formerly Wells Fargo Arena)

If you’re looking for the biggest shows in town, Casey’s Center is where it’s at. This 17,000-seat arena is Iowa’s go-to spot for major concerts, sports, and entertainment spectacles. Known for its electrifying atmosphere, Casey’s Center has welcomed global superstars like Morgan Wallen, Elton John, and Pink, earning it a spot in the top 100 concert venues worldwide for attendance.

The arena is the heart of sports in Des Moines, serving as the home of the Iowa Wild, the AHL affiliate of the NHL’s Minnesota Wild. Hockey fans pack the stands for high-energy games, especially during the colder months when the ice is hot with action. Beyond hockey, Casey’s Center hosts basketball, wrestling, and even monster truck rallies, making it a versatile hub for adrenaline-pumping events.

Recent highlights include the NHL’s Des Moines Community Classic, where the Utah Hockey Club faced off against the St. Louis Blues in September 2024, and All Elite Wrestling’s (AEW) debut at the arena in June 2024. Whether it’s a country music megastar or a wrestling showdown, Casey’s Center delivers larger-than-life experiences that leave audiences buzzing.

Des Moines Civic Center

For those who prefer the drama of the stage, the Des Moines Civic Center is a must-visit. This 2,762-seat theater, opened in 1979, is a cornerstone of Iowa’s performing arts scene. With its 76-foot-wide proscenium stage and impeccable acoustics, it’s no wonder the Civic Center is a favorite for Broadway tours, symphony performances, and special concerts.

The Civic Center is home to the Des Moines Symphony, which fills the hall with stirring classical music throughout its season. It’s also a key stop for the Willis Broadway Series, bringing blockbuster musicals like Hamilton (returning June 3-15, 2025) and Les Misérables to Iowa audiences. In 2025, expect to see innovative performances like BODYTRAFFIC, a high-energy contemporary dance company, and unique events like a live orchestral screening of Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part 1.

What sets the Civic Center apart is its ability to balance grandeur with intimacy. Whether you’re watching a Broadway star belt out a showstopper or a local choir perform, the venue’s design ensures every seat feels close to the action.

Hoyt Sherman Place

Steeped in history, Hoyt Sherman Place is a cultural treasure in Des Moines’ Sherman Hill neighborhood. Built in 1877 as the family home of its namesake, this 1,252-seat Victorian theater is renowned for its extraordinary acoustics and plush, velvet-lined seating. It’s the kind of place where you feel transported back in time, yet the performances are anything but old-fashioned.

Hoyt Sherman Place hosts a mix of concerts, comedy shows, and theater productions. In 2025, you might catch the Black Jacket Symphony recreating AC/DC’s Back in Black or Shaun Johnson and The Big Band Experience delivering holiday cheer. The venue also offers unique experiences like art classes and gallery exhibitions, making it a hub for creativity beyond the stage.

The intimate setting makes every event feel special, whether it’s a folk singer strumming a guitar or a comedian cracking up the crowd. It’s no surprise that legends like Louis Armstrong and modern stars like Sturgill Simpson have graced its stage.

Vibrant Music Hall

A newer addition to the Des Moines music scene, Vibrant Music Hall in Waukee has quickly made a name for itself. This mid-sized venue offers a modern, high-energy space for concerts, attracting a wide range of artists from country to rock to hip-hop. In 2025, expect shows from the likes of Russell Dickerson, Kevin Gates, and Alice Cooper, showcasing the venue’s versatility.

Vibrant Music Hall’s state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems create an immersive experience, whether you’re rocking out to Mudvayne or singing along with Lee Brice. Its location in the growing suburb of Waukee makes it a convenient stop for both locals and visitors, and its growing reputation ensures a steady stream of big-name acts.

Lauridsen Amphitheater

For outdoor music lovers, Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park is the place to be. This open-air venue hosts everything from indie festivals to major headliners like Willie Nelson and Incubus. It’s also the new home of the 80/35 Music Festival, a two-day July extravaganza featuring stars like Lizzo and Weezer in past years.

The amphitheater’s scenic setting, surrounded by greenery, adds a relaxed vibe to summer concerts. In 2025, look out for acts like Lake Street Dive and Cody Jinks, who will take advantage of the venue’s open-air charm to create unforgettable nights under the stars.

The Usual Events: Sports, Concerts, Theater, and More

Des Moines’ venues host a diverse lineup of events that cater to every taste. Here’s a closer look at the types of experiences you can expect throughout the year.

Sports: Where the Action Never Stops

Sports are a big deal in Des Moines, and the city’s venues deliver plenty of heart-pounding moments. Casey’s Center is the epicenter, with the Iowa Wild bringing hockey fever to the city from October to April. Fans also flock to the arena for basketball games, wrestling matches, and special events like the Des Moines Community Classic.

Beyond Casey’s Center, Des Moines is home to the Drake Relays, one of the nation’s premier track and field events, held annually at Drake Stadium. This springtime tradition draws top athletes and enthusiastic crowds, blending competitive spirit with community pride.

For something a bit different, the Iowa Events Center (which includes Casey’s Center) hosts monster truck rallies, rodeos, and even esports tournaments. These events bring a playful, high-energy vibe that’s perfect for families or anyone looking for a fun night out.

Concerts: A Soundtrack for Every Taste

Des Moines’ music scene is as diverse as it gets, with venues catering to every genre imaginable. Casey’s Center brings in the heavy hitters—think Zach Bryan, Cardi B, or Eric Church, who’s set to perform in September 2025 as part of his Free The Machine Tour. Vibrant Music Hall and Hoyt Sherman Place offer more intimate settings for artists like Ani DiFranco, Chase Rice, and Straight No Chaser, whose holiday tour will light up the Civic Center in November 2025.

For festival-goers, the 80/35 Music Festival at Lauridsen Amphitheater is a highlight of the summer, showcasing both up-and-coming acts and established stars. Just a short drive away, the Hinterland Music Festival in St. Charles draws massive crowds for its three-day lineup, with past performers like Noah Kahan and Chappell Roan setting the stage for 2025’s yet-to-be-announced acts.

Smaller venues like Wooly’s and Lefty’s Live Music add to the mix, hosting indie bands, local acts, and niche genres like jazz and folk. Whether you’re into pop, rock, country, or hip-hop, Des Moines has a concert for you.

Theater: Broadway and Beyond

Theater lovers are spoiled for choice in Des Moines, thanks to venues like the Des Moines Civic Center and Hoyt Sherman Place. The Civic Center’s Willis Broadway Series is a major draw, bringing award-winning shows like Hamilton (June 3-15, 2025) and Beetlejuice to the city. These productions attract theatergoers from across the Midwest, cementing Des Moines’ reputation as a Broadway destination.

The Temple Theater, another gem operated by Des Moines Performing Arts, offers a more intimate setting for plays, musicals, and special performances. Its cozy atmosphere is perfect for experimental theater or smaller productions that pack an emotional punch.

For opera fans, the Des Moines Metro Opera in nearby Indianola is a summer highlight. Held at the Pote Theater at Blank Performing Arts Center, this festival features world-class performers and stunning productions that draw audiences from across the country.

Festivals and Community Events

Des Moines loves a good festival, and the city’s calendar is packed with them. The Iowa State Fair, held annually in August at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, is a cultural juggernaut, blending music, food, and agriculture. Past performers have included major acts like Carrie Underwood and The Chainsmokers, alongside quirky events like butter sculpting and livestock shows.

The Des Moines Arts Festival, typically held in June, transforms Western Gateway Park into a vibrant showcase of visual arts, live music, and food. It’s a family-friendly event that celebrates creativity and community. For foodies, the Downtown Farmers’ Market runs every Saturday from May to October, offering fresh produce, live music, and a festive atmosphere.

Other notable festivals include Knotfest Iowa, a heavy metal extravaganza headlined by Slipknot at Water Works Park (September 21, 2024), and the Principal Charity Classic, a PGA Tour Champions event that combines golf with philanthropy. These events highlight Des Moines’ ability to balance global appeal with local pride.

A Year-Round Calendar of Excitement

Des Moines’ event scene is a year-round affair, with each season bringing its own flavor. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect throughout the year:

• Winter: The holiday season lights up with concerts like Shaun Johnson’s Big Band Experience at Hoyt Sherman Place and Straight No Chaser’s Holiday Road tour at the Civic Center. Hockey at Casey’s Center keeps the energy high, while cozy theater performances warm the soul.

• Spring: The Drake Relays kick off the season with track and field excitement, while the Des Moines Symphony performs stirring concerts at the Civic Center. Smaller venues like Wooly’s host up-and-coming bands, and the farmers’ market starts buzzing.

• Summer: Festivals take center stage, from the Iowa State Fair to 80/35 and Hinterland. Lauridsen Amphitheater hosts outdoor concerts, and the Des Moines Metro Opera brings world-class performances to Indianola.

• Fall: Casey’s Center and Vibrant Music Hall keep the concert calendar packed with acts like Eric Church and Dream Theater. Knotfest Iowa rocks Water Works Park, and the Civic Center’s Broadway series ramps up with fan-favorite shows.

Tips for Enjoying Events in Des Moines

To make the most of your Des Moines event experience, here are a few tips:

• Plan Ahead: Tickets for big shows at Casey’s Center or the Civic Center can sell out fast. Check sites like Songkick, Bandsintown, or Des Moines Performing Arts for updates and ticket availability.

• Explore Smaller Venues: Don’t sleep on places like Wooly’s or Lefty’s Live Music for intimate concerts with local and indie acts. These spots often deliver some of the most memorable nights.

• Embrace the Festivals: From the Iowa State Fair to Hinterland, festivals are a great way to soak up Des Moines’ community spirit. Bring sunscreen and comfy shoes for outdoor events!

• Check Group Packages: The Iowa Events Center and Des Moines Performing Arts offer group discounts for sports, concerts, and theater, perfect for families or corporate outings.

• Stay Connected: Follow venues on social media or check CatchDesMoines.com for the latest event announcements. X posts from accounts like @KCCINews or @CaseysCenter can also keep you in the loop.

Why Des Moines Events Are Unmissable

Des Moines may be in the heart of the Midwest, but its event scene has a heartbeat all its own. From the roar of Casey’s Center to the elegance of the Des Moines Civic Center, the city’s venues are stages for unforgettable moments. Whether you’re cheering for the Iowa Wild, singing along with your favorite band, or getting lost in a Broadway musical, Des Moines delivers experiences that stick with you long after the lights go down.

The city’s mix of world-class events and homegrown festivals creates a sense of community that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s a place where you can dance under the stars at Lauridsen Amphitheater, laugh at a comedy show at Hoyt Sherman Place, or marvel at the artistry of a Des Moines Symphony performance. No matter your interests, Des Moines has an event that’ll make you feel right at home.

So, next time you’re planning a weekend adventure, check out what’s happening in Des Moines. With its incredible venues and endless events, this Iowa city is ready to show you a good time. Grab your tickets, gather your friends, and get ready to make memories in the heart of the Midwest.