Welcome to the Des Moines
Downtown Neighborhood Association
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We exist to involve neighbors in a collective effort to enhance and celebrate the quality of residential life in downtown Des Moines.

Why should you join the DNA?

  • Enjoy exclusive member benefits and discounts.
  • Be part of a community that’s trying to make downtown Des Moines a great place to live, work and play.
  • Stay informed about issues that affect local residents.
  • Get your voice heard in order to make a real difference.
  • Socialize and network during events at your favorite downtown hotspots, while also supporting those businesses and organizations.

Join Us for These Upcoming Events:

Join us for these upcoming events:

Wednesday, May 6, 2026
DNA Board Meeting

  • 6:00 pm
  • Des Moines Public LibraryCentral, Large Study Room
  • 1000 Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50309

DNA Board Meetings are open for all members to attend, and will primarily be a time for the Board to conduct business. The agenda will be sent to members by email in advance of the meeting.

Tuesday, May 12th, 2026
Tuesday Together

  • 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
  • Tupelo Honey, 615 Grand Ave, Des Moines

Join us for a relaxed gathering to connect with your neighbors and each other’s company. There’s no fee and no agenda—just a chance to meet new people and chat about what’s happening in our community. Whether you’re new to the neighborhood or a familiar face, everyone is welcome! Light appetizers will be provided with soft drinks and adult beverages available for purchase. 

Saturday, September 26, 2026
Downtown End of Summer Block Party

  • 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm
  • Hub Spot, 215 Water St, Des Moines, IA 50309

We’re running it back! Celebrate the end of summer with the Downtown Neighborhood Association at The Hub Spot! After the market wraps up, stick around for an afternoon of food trucks, drinks, live music, games, and community fun.

Whether you’re downtown every day or just stopping by, all are welcome to join this celebration of summer and city life. Come hang out, meet your neighbors, and enjoy the best of downtown Des Moines!

More details to come, along with vendor sign up.

Wednesday, April 1st
Social & Learn – Community Updates

  • 5:30 Happy Hour, 6:30 Presentation
  • West End Architectural Salvage
  • 22 9th Street, Des Moines

Neighbors, please join us on April 1st at West End Salvage for an evening of connection and conversation!

  • 5:30 PM — Social Hour
    Free drinks and snacks will be available for members! Explore the unique space, and connect with neighbors, local leaders, and community partners.
  • 6:15/6:30 PM — Community Presentations
    Hear quick updates and insights from organizations shaping downtown and the broader Des Moines community:
    • Des Moines Parks & Recreation
    • Des Moines Public Library
    • Drake Relays
    • Des Moines Public Schools
    • Polk County Treasurer
    • S.A.F.E. Center of Iowa
  • Come for the drinks and snacks, stay for the conversation, and leave more connected to what’s happening in your community.

The event is free to all, but please help us plan refreshments by signing up here:

Wednesday, January 21
DNA Annual Meeting

Join us for the DNA Annual Meeting! We will be voting for board members, reviewing the past year’s accomplishments and hearing from our guest speakers. Mayor Connie Boesen and Renae Mauk, Vice President of Downtown Development of the Greater Des Moines Partnership, will speak about current and upcoming economic development in downtown Des Moines.

Wednesday, August 5,2026
Iowa State Fair Parade

  • 5:00 pm
  • West on Grand Ave. from the Iowa State Capitol to 15th St.

Join us as we show our Des Moines pride by carrying our DNA banner in the Iowa State Fair parade. If you’re a member and would like to walk in the parade, contact us for lineup time and location information.

Want to get involved in the downtown Des Moines community?