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:

Saturday, September 20, 2026
Downtown End of Summer Block Party

  • 2:00 pm to 6:30 pm
  • Hub Spot, 215 Water St, Des Moines, IA 50309

The Downtown End of Summer Block Party is FREE, family friendly and open to the public, so bring a friend or someone who is interested in joining DNA.

  • Free Giveaways: Show your Membership ID and get a FREE DNA shirt and other DNA swag! Anyone can sign up for a membership on the spot and get a FREE DNA shirt while supplies last.
  • Free Raffle Tickets: All DNA members also get a FREE ticket to enter the raffle to win gift cards and merch from our amazing business partners at Full Court Press, Orchestrate Hospitality and Tupelo Honey. Raffle tickets will be on sale for 1 ticket for $1, 6 tickets for $5, or 10 tickets for $8.
  • Live Music: Two local musicians will be bringing the beats: Mike Aceto (2:30-4:30) and Zachary Freedom (5:00-6:00)
  • Food & Beverages: DNA is providing FREE soft drinks and snacks, but why not mix it up and grab something from one of the food trucks on site!
  • DMFD Fire Engine: Don’t miss your chance to explore a real fire engine and meet the firefighters keeping downtown safe!
  • Games Galore: We have games for all ages planned: bags, giant Jenga, giant Connect Four and sidewalk games like water balloon toss.
  • We’ll have vendors on site with clothing, photography, craft kits, art, candles, and more!

Wednesday, February 4, 2026
DNA Board Meeting

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

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.

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:

Tuesday, April 14th, 2026
Tuesday Together

  • 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
  • Tupelo Honey, 665 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. 

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?