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?
Join Us for These Upcoming Events:
Wednesday, January 29
DNA Annual Meeting
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!
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! 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, September 20
Downtown End of Summer Block Party
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!
Sunday, September 28
Downtown Architectural History Walking Tour
Join us on Sunday, September 28 at 1:00 PM for the Downtown Architectural History Walking Tour, co-hosted with our friends at the Iowa Architectural Foundation. This year, we’re shining the spotlight on residential buildings in downtown Des Moines—the homes, lofts, and condos that give our neighborhood its character.
As a special feature, DNA members are invited to nominate their own buildings to be included in the tour. Selected buildings will receive a personalized history, and nominators may be asked to grant tour participants (max 25) access to unique areas of interest.
Wednesday, October 1st
DNA Board Meeting
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.
Tuesday, October 14th
DNA Tuesday Together
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, August 5
Iowa State Fair Parade
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
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!
