We’re officially in the thick of summer and live music is booming in the city. Check out this list of all the music happening in the Des Moines area this weekend, August 12-14.

Disclaimer: Events are subject to change. For the most up-to-date info, please reach out to the venues at the link below.


🎶 Live Music By Venue 🎶


Iowa State Fair Grandstand


LOCATION: 3000 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50317
 
  • Thursday, August 11 – Sunday, August 21

The Iowa State Fair is finally back and the Grand Stand line up is lit. Over the next ten days, you have the chance to see Carrie Underwood, Brooks and Dunn, Skillet, Nelly, Demi Lovato and several other amazing artists. Here’s this weekend’s paid show lineup: 

  • Friday, August 12 – Brooks & Dunn
  • Saturday, August 13 – Nelly
  • Sunday, August 14 – Demi Lovato

There’s also great free entertainment throughout the week! 


Iowa Distilling Company


LOCATION: 4349 Cumming Ave, Cumming, IA 50061

Josh Sinclair

 
  • Friday, August 12, 6 p.m.

Head over to Iowa’s favorite distillery to start your weekend. Josh Sinclair is bringing his guitar and talent to the Iowa Distilling Company on Friday night. Sooks Korean Kitchen Food Truck will also be bringing their great food that pairs perfectly with the venue’s hand crafted cocktails!


The Hall


LOCATION: 111 S 11th St, West Des Moines, IA 50265

Dan Medeiros

  • Sunday, August 13, 7 p.m. 

Dan Medeiros is headed back to The Hall this weekend. This Canadian singer songwriter has a great set full of favorites from the past decades as well as heart felt originals.


Val Air Ballroom


LOCATION: 301 Ashworth Rd, West Des Moines, IA 50265

Jack White

  • Sunday, August 14, 8 p.m.

Jack White began his career as a front man to The White Stripes. Now he is taking is mellow rock sounds on the road solo. Check out the historic Val Air Ballroom and immerse yourself in the gritty sounds he’s planning to bring! 


xBk Live


LOCATION: 1159 24th St, Des Moines, IA 50311

Chastity Brown

  • Friday, August 12, 8 p.m. 

Wanting to kick the weekend off with a more mellow vibe? Be sure to check out Chastity Brown at xBk. Her show has a gospel/bluesy sound and her lyrics are full of emotion. She’s an NPR favorite, so be sure not to miss it. 


More Venues With Live Music This Weekend


Smash Park
Truman’s Pizza Tavern
Jamie Hurd Amphitheater
Firetrucker
Gas Lamp

Ready to tackle this weekend?

Check out all of our weekend guides here