Each month, we highlight the most buzzworthy places and events in Greater Des Moines in a feature we call Des Buzz. It's your “in the know” list of places to go!
Des Moines Holiday Boutique
The Des Moines Holiday Boutique returns to the Iowa Events Center, November 15 – 17. Spend the weekend exploring hundreds of vendors selling everything from clothing and jewelry to home furnishings, food, and of course, holiday decor. Tickets are $14, but if you purchase your tickets online before the show, you can save $2. Celebrate Girls Night Out on Friday night, and don’t miss out on limited-edition glam bags for purchase. Enjoy holiday music performances, the Iowa Wine Village, a relaxation lounge, and even Santa. There’s something for everyone on your list at the Des Moines Holiday Boutique, get tickets here!
Iowa Wolves
It’s time for tip off for the Iowa Wolves, Des Moines’ NBA G League affiliate of the Minnesota Timberwolves. Coming off a franchise record for attendance, they open their season on Friday, November 8 at Wells Fargo Arena against the Windy City Bulls, and the first 1,500 fans will receive a clear Iowa Wolves-branded crossbody bag. Other home games during the month include November 9, 22, and 23. Learn more and buy tickets here!
Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market
Missing the warm summer mornings at the Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market already? Lucky for you, the market returns one final time for the season November 22 – 24. Don’t worry, the winter farmers’ market is indoors, so you can enjoy visiting all your favorite vendors from the warmth of the Iowa Events Center. Enjoy seasonal produce, local art, food, live music, and all your other farmers’ market favorites for the last time in 2024.
Disney on Ice
Disney on Ice returns to Wells Fargo Arena November 28 – December 1. Disney On Ice presents Mickey's Search Party, featuring Moana, Coco, Aladdin, Frozen, Toy Story, and more. See your favorite movies come to life on ice, with tickets starting at $26. Learn more and get tickets here.
Turkey Trot
Looking to become a 5k on holidays type of family? The Turkey Trot is the perfect place to start your yearly holiday running journey. Celebrating their 10th year, the Turkey Trot is a 5k or 5-mile race around downtown Des Moines on Thanksgiving morning. All participants will receive a stocking cap and commemorative finisher ornament, just in time for decorating your tree. Not wanting to start your Thanksgiving morning with a run? Turkey Trot is always looking for volunteers, and it’s the perfect way to give back this holiday season. Learn more and register to race here.
The Good Butcher
Des Moines has a brand-new butcher shop, recently opened in the Crescent Building next to Big Grove Brewery. The Good Butcher is the perfect place to go and get locally sourced meat. Specializing in dry curing, they are the only butcher shop in the State of Iowa licensed to produce this style of meat, perfect for charcuterie. They will also offer vegan options, including vegan salami, made with dates and walnuts. The shop is open daily Tuesday – Sunday.
Roots 95
Since its opening earlier this year, Roots 95 in Johnston has generated plenty of buzz as one of the top destination dining spots in the burbs. Opened by Arturo Mora, whose popular Flame food truck spawned brick and mortar locations in Johnston, Bondurant, and Ankeny, Roots 95 is a more upscale fusion restaurant that leans into local ingredients and globally inspired flavors. Expand your palate with items like the Wagyu burger, tempura fish tacos, Thai pasta, and a roasted pear and bleu cheese flatbread. Your new favorite neighborhood hidden gem beckons.
Dome for the Holidays
If you’re looking for a little warmth during the holiday season, head over to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden for Dome for the Holidays. Enjoy a light show of thousands of twinkling lights throughout the gardens, a train display, a gnome hunt, a collection of blown glass sculptures, and more. Enjoy this event Wednesdays – Sundays, November 16 – December 31. Adult tickets are $15, children are $9, and Botanical Garden Members get a $3 discount. Secure your spot for the holiday magic here.
