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:

Wednesday, January 29
DNA Annual Meeting

  • Surety Hotel, 206 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
  • 5:30 pm

Join us for the DNA Annual Meeting at the Surety Hotel! We will be voting for board members, reviewing the past year’s accomplishments and hearing from guest speaker Jesse Bunney, General Manager of LawMark Capital about the development at the Financial Center. And members in attendance will be eligible to win a $50 gift certificate to Mulberry Street Tavern, including a free night’s stay at the Surety Hotel, compliments of the Surety Hotel!

Please RSVP on Facebook to let us know how many to expect.

Tuesday, March 25
DNA Tuesday Together

  • El Bait Shop
  • 5:30 to 8:00 pm

As always, this event is open to members and prospective members alike. Come unwind with neighbors and friends for great conversation and good vibes. No agenda and no cost to attend – just an opportunity to mingle, meet new folks, and chat about our community. DNA will provide some snacks. Drinks available for purchase.

Wednesday, April 2
DNA Board Meeting

  • 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
  • Des Moines Public Library – Central Library – Meeting Room #1
  • 1000 Grand Ave., Des Moines
  • Meeting Agenda

Our regularly scheduled meeting, open for all to attend. Members will receive the agenda by email in advance of the meeting. It will also be posted on our Facebook page.

Wednesday, April 23
Downtown Social & Learn:
Festivals & Events in Downtown DSM

5:00 pm Happy Hour, 6:00 pm Panel Discussion
The Shop, 901 Cherry St, Des Moines, IA 50309

Mark your calendars! The Downtown Neighborhood Association is hosting our next Social + Learn event at The Shop, and you won’t want to miss it!

This time, we’re diving into Festivals & Events in Downtown DSM 🎶🍽️🎨 – what goes into planning them, their impact on our city, and how you can get involved!

We’ll hear from:
🌈 Capital City Pride – Celebrating inclusivity and organizing one of DSM’s most vibrant events!
🎭 Des Moines Arts Festival – A nationally recognized, award-winning festival attracting 200,000+ attendees!
🎤 Des Moines Water Works / Lauridsen Amphitheater – Hosting concerts and community events in one of DSM’s most scenic venues!

Come for the insights, stay for the connections! Enjoy a casual, interactive discussion while networking with neighbors and community leaders.

This is a free event, and all are welcome! Grab a drink, bring your questions, and let’s talk about what makes downtown DSM the place to be.

Saturday, June 29
DNA at the Downtown Des Moines Farmers Market

  • 7:00 am – 12:00 pm
  • Downtown Des Moines, Court Ave., Des Moines
  • Learn More

Stop by our booth and learn more about how to engage in the community and what we’re doing to improve the quality of life in downtown Des Moines.

Wednesday, August 7
Iowa State Fair Parade

  • 6:15 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.

Tuesday, August 6
National Night Out

  • 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
  • EMC Downtown Park
  • 7th and Walnut, Des Moines

Join your neighbors and the Downtown Neighborhood Association for an evening of camaraderie in the heart of downtown. We’ll have live music by The Sheet; free food and beverages; basketball, bags and pickleball; and an opportunity to meet those responsible for public safety in downtown. You’re invited!

Want to get involved in the downtown Des Moines community?