The Setlist: Live Music in Des Moines for December 2024 

The Setlist is your monthly cheat sheet for must-catch concerts and shows in Greater Des Moines. Go ahead and check, check what’s worthy of an encore this month.

A Charlie Brown Christmas w/ The Tanner Taylor Trio – December 9 

Is there a better holiday soundtrack than A Charlie Brown Christmas? Head to Noce to hear the soundtrack live from The Tanner Taylor Trio, one of the great piano trios in the region. Various dates are available to take in the spirit of the holiday with the sounds of Charlie and the whole gang. Good grief!

Ballet Des Moines Presents The Nutcracker – December 12 – 15 

The quintessential holiday show returns in 2024 for four days throughout December at Hoyt Sherman Place. Ballet Des Moines will take you through the magical journey of Clara and her nutcracker as they battle the evil Mouse King. See Sugar Plum Fairies, Snow Flakes, Dolls, and more as they dance across stage.

The Nadas – December 14 

Hometown heroes, The Nadas, make their return to Des Moines this month. Known for their Americana sounds, The Nadas have performed all over the country, but are especially loved here in Greater Des Moines. Catch them one last time in 2024, right here at Wooly’s. Tickets start at $25, and you can get them here.

Holiday Hoedown – December 14 

Celebrate the holidays with the first ever Holiday Hoedown at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. With an evening stacked full of local artists, enjoy performances from the Owen Justice Band, Jordan Beem, and Tyler Richton and the High Bank Boys. There will be food from Campbell’s Concessions and Scornovacco’s Pizza, as well as holiday drinks. Ugly Sweaters are highly encouraged.

Pentatonix – December 19 

One of the most beloved acapella groups of this generation, Pentatonix, is making their return to Wells Fargo Arena. With eight different Christmas albums, it’s safe to say listening to Pentatonix during the holiday season is a tradition we’ll always take part in. Witness the incredible art of acapella live and hear favorites like “That’s Christmas To Me” and “White Winter Hymnal.” Limited tickets remain, so grab some here while you still can.

Diamond Rio – December 20 

We all know that ‘90s country is the best country. Travel back in time when Diamond Rio comes to Hoyt Sherman Place this month. With hits like “Meet in the Middle” and “How Your Love Makes Me Feel,” it’s sure to be a night full of chart-topping hits from back in the day. Diamond Rio has their very own Christmas album as well, so don’t be surprised if you hear a few of those songs as well.

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas – December 21 

Said to be one of the most popular Christmas acts of all time, Mannheim Steamroller is rolling in to the Des Moines Civic Center this holiday season. Their first holiday album came out 35 years ago, and they’ve been captivating crowds with their sounds ever since. Enjoy beautiful lights, effects, and more as you listen to some of your favorite holiday hits.

A Magical Cirque Christmas – December 22  

If you’re looking for an extra exciting holiday show, A Magical Cirque Christmas is perfect for the whole family. Enjoy circus acts such as juggling, acrobatics, trapeze, aerial, and more, all set to your favorite holiday hits. Tickets start at $40 and are available here