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!
Latino Heritage Festival
School may have started, but that doesn’t mean festival season is over quite yet. On September 27 and 28, get the fiesta started and come explore Iowa’s Latino Heritage Festival at Western Gateway Park in downtown Des Moines. This is the only two-day Latino Heritage Festival in the state, filled with art exhibits, cultural booths, authentic food, music and dance performances, and kid activities. Adults are $5, kids 12 and under are FREE, and parking is FREE at the Nationwide Parking Ramp. Need more convincing? Check out our blog for five reasons why you should attend here.
Tribute Eatery & Bar
Tribute Eatery & Bar is bringing its elevated comfort food and laid-back charm to Ankeny, opening September 4 in the former 30Hop location in The District at Prairie Trail. Already a hit in Coralville, Tribute serves up crave-worthy sandwiches, hearty mains, and weekend brunch with handcrafted cocktails and plenty of good vibes. Whether you're brunching with friends or grabbing dinner and drinks, Tribute is ready to be your new go-to spot.
DSMHBA HomeShowExpo
Have you always dreamed of building your own home? Do you just want to explore new builds? Or are you one of those people that count looking at houses on Zillow as a favorite hobby? Either way, the 50th anniversary of the Des Moines Home Builders Association HomeShowExpo is the perfect way to keep up on the latest home trends. Head to Johnston to tour seven brand-new builds full of the latest and greatest house stuff. General admission tickets are $15, and kids ages 6 – 10 are $5. The homes are open the last three weekends in September, starting Saturday, September 13. See the dates and buy tickets here.
Casey’s Center Concerts
Casey’s Center is cranking up the volume all month long. First up, country hitmaker and crowd-commanding Jason Aldean returns to Des Moines with his Full Throttle Tour on September 19. A few days later, shift gears with a heavy-hitting rock double feature: post-grunge giants Breaking Benjamin and hard rock legends Three Days Grace. Finally, on September 27, close out the month in true outlaw style when country rebel Eric Church returns to town. Tickets are still available for all three shows, get them here.
GalaxyCon
Get ready to blast off as GalaxyCon descends on the Iowa Events Center from September 12 – 14. This festival of fandom features celebrities, cosplayers, fan groups, artists, and more. Enjoy immersive panels, autograph sessions, photo ops, workshops, contests, and more all weekend long. Single day tickets as well as weekend passes are still available, get them here.
CyHawk Watch Parties
The annual Iowa vs. Iowa State football game is practically a statewide holiday, and Greater Des Moines has your watch party plans covered for September 6. The Touchdown Tailgate returns to Cowles Commons with two jumbo screens, food trucks, drinks, live music, and more. Big Grove Brewery will host the official Hawkeye watch party, while Paws & Pints offers a pet-friendly option perfect for fans and their furry companions. Over at Smash Park, catch the game on a massive 30-foot screen and enjoy game day food and drink specials. Whether you’re a Hawk or a Clone, one of these events is sure to be a win.
Oktoberfest Events
Don’t let the name confuse you; though it may be September, Oktoberfest is back in full force this month. (Fun fact: The original festival in Germany was moved from October to September in the late 1800s because the weather was better.) Greater Des Moines has you covered with multiple Oktoberfest events. Head to the Des Moines Biergarten in Water Works Park, Adventureland, or even The District at Prairie Trail in Ankeny, the newest home of Des Moines Oktoberfest. Dust off those lederhosen and dirndl dresses and get ready to hoist a heavy glass in the air. Prost!
Sleepy Hollow Renaissance Faire
Take in Fall Faire the first three weekends in September at Sleepy Hollow Sports Park, Iowa’s only permanent Renaissance Village. The Renaissance Faire brings guests back to a time when Kings and Queens ruled the land. Embrace the theme and come dressed in your Renaissance best; whether that’s as a Knight or even a Viking (or you know, shorts and a T-shirt). Experience entertainment all weekend long including jousting, street dancing, juggling, and so much more. Plus, after hours is 21+ with a special show and beverages from the bar. Tickets are $25, or you can get a season pass for $55.
