Things to Do in Des Moines This Weekend -- Concerts, Sports & More
Discover the best things to do in Des Moines this weekend (16 Oct - 18 Oct 2026). Find top Concerts and Sports events at xBk Live and more.
Activities in Des Moines This Weekend - Your Weekly Events Hub
In a hurry? Here are this weekend's top picks (16 Oct - 18 Oct 2026), directly from our curated event listings:
- Stanley Simmons at xBk Live - Sunday, 18 October 2026. Tickets From $43.
- Danielle Nicole at Wooly's - Friday, 16 October 2026. Tickets From $74.
- Drake Bulldogs vs. Marist Red Foxes at Drake Stadium - Des Moines - Saturday, 17 October 2026. Tickets From $29.
- Our House - The Music of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young at The Ingersoll - Friday, 16 October 2026. See tickets on the event page.
- Ducharme-Jones Band at The Ingersoll - Saturday, 17 October 2026. See tickets on the event page.
- Big Head Todd and The Monsters at Hoyt Sherman Place Theater - Friday, 16 October 2026. Tickets From $117.
- Black Jacket Symphony: Bon Jovi's Slippery When Wet at Hoyt Sherman Place Theater - Saturday, 17 October 2026. Tickets From $38.
- Velveteen - Musical at Des Moines Civic Center - Saturday, 17 October 2026. Tickets From $51.
- Drake Bulldogs Women's Volleyball vs. Valparaiso University at Drake Knapp Center - Saturday, 17 October 2026. See tickets on the event page.
- Drake Bulldogs Women's Volleyball vs. Illinois-Chicago Flames at Drake Knapp Center - Friday, 16 October 2026. See tickets on the event page.
Concerts in Des Moines This Weekend
Des Moines's Concerts scene is buzzing this weekend. Catch incredible performances at spots like xBk Live or Wooly's.
Most major venues release last-minute tickets on the day. Check the venue site directly before assuming a show is sold out.
Sports in Des Moines This Weekend
From spectacular stage shows to cutting-edge events, Des Moines offers fantastic Sports. Check out events at Drake Stadium - Des Moines or xBk Live.
For last-minute tickets:
The best Sports in Des Moines often release unsold seats on the day of performance. Standing tickets are often the best-value last-minute option in the city.
Things to Do in Des Moines on Saturday vs Sunday
A quick comparison to help you plan your weekend.
| Saturday | Sunday |
|---|---|
| Headline gigs & big events: most major concerts and festivals land on Saturday night. | Markets & culture: brunch spots, markets and galleries are usually a Sunday move. |
| Crowds: busy from midday, peaking 1-4pm in central areas. | Crowds: quieter until early afternoon, building from 11am and easing by 3pm. |
| Nightlife: bustling city centre, longer venue hours. | Pace: relaxed cafes, jazz brunches, afternoon sessions. |
Bottom line: Saturday wins for big-ticket events. Sunday is better for a slower, more local feel - markets, galleries, and long lunches.
How to Book Des Moines Events
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FAQ
Which area of Des Moines is best for a weekend out?
It depends on your vibe. The areas around xBk Live and Wooly's are usually great starting points for a weekend out.
Is Saturday or Sunday better for things to do in Des Moines?
Saturday is better for big events, headline gigs, and festivals. Sunday is better for markets, brunch, and a quieter gallery visit. If you can only pick one day, Saturday gives you more options - but Sunday is less crowded.