Looking for live music in Des Moines this weekend? Check out this list of all the music happening in the Des Moines area this weekend, August 13-15.

Disclaimer: Events are subject to change. For the most up-to-date info, please contact the host directly.

Written By: Emma Ferry, Des Moines Girl Contributor


🎶 Live Music🎶


The 2021 Iowa State Fair

  • Iowa State Fairgrounds, 3000 East Grand Ave, Des Moines, Iowa 50317
  • Friday, August 13 – Sunday, August 22

Whether you’re looking for country, rock, pop or more, the Iowa State Fair is sure to deliver. Check out their entertainment calendar to see the hundreds of acts taking stage. From purchasing tickets to see a big name or stopping for a free show at the Iowa Craft Beer Tent, this is where the majority of the live music scene will be for the next ten days or so!


Jameson Rodgers at Wooly’s 

  • Wooly’s, 504 E Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
  • Friday, August 13, Doors: 7 p.m. Show: 8 p.m.

Rising country music star, Jameson Rodgers, is taking the stage at Wooly’s. One of Sony’s newest signings, Jameson is taking country music radio by a storm. Whether you’re already a fan or looking to become a convert, this show is bound to be a great time.


Jake Schrodt at Truman’s Pizza Tavern

  • Truman’s Pizza Tavern, 400 SE 6th St. Des Moines, IA 50309
  • Friday, August 13,  4 p.m.

Local singer/songwriter, Jake Schrodt, is best described as a “midwest guy with a west coast vibe.” This smooth blend of alternative rock sounds and edgy country make for a pleasing, yet unique music experience. This sound is perfect for summer patio sitting!


Vinyl Spin and Dance Party with Mickey Davis of Maids at xBk Live

  • xBk Live,1159 24th Street, Des Moines, IA 50311
  • Friday, August 13, 7 p.m. 

Known as “the finest purveyor of Midwest Disco,” MAIDS’ very own Mickey Davis will be taking the stage to spin his exclusive DJ set. Promising a dance party and good vibes only, this is the perfect way to kick off the weekend.


Night Like This at Mistress Brewing

  • Mistress Brewing, 1802 N Ankeny Blvd, Suite 108, Ankeny, IA 50021
  • Friday August 13,  7:30 p.m. 

Night Like This is the perfect band for summer beer sipping. With chill sounds being a major part of each song’s make-up, it’s hard to go wrong. Grab a beer, bring a friend and sit back for the soundtrack of summer.


Depths & Pyko Da Syko at Lefty’s 

  • Lefty’s, 2307 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50311
  • Saturday, August 14,  5 p.m.

Back, but bringing new music, Depths and Pyko Da Syko are promising a party unlike any other. Guaranteeing good vibes, good drinks and great music, this is sure to be a wild night. Open for all ages, bring the whole gang. 


Rainbow Penley Band at Captain Roy’s 

  • Captain Roy’s,  1900 Saylor Rd, Des Moines, IA 50313
  • Saturday, August 14,  6 p.m.
Folk/rock band, Rainbow Penley, has a sound that will keep you coming back for more. This guitar heavy trio easily fills the room with their captivating sound and pairs perfectly with the Saylorville views at Captain Roy’s.

Shine Dance Party Feat. DJ Mollie G!t Down 

  • xBk Live,1159 24th Street, Des Moines, IA 50311
  • Saturday, August 14, 7:30 p.m.

This is a dance party for all humans. Feel free and move to the best of local and regional DJ’s at this inaugural party at xBk Live organized by the Sisters Assembling Safer Space Events (SASSE). 

Get tickets. 


Umphrey’s McGee at Brenton Skating Plaza

  • Brenton’s Skating Plaza, 520 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines, IA 50309
  • Sunday August 15,  7 p.m.

Umphrey’s McGee is best described as having a little bit of everything. After playing together for 20 years and releasing multiple albums, the band has journeyed through a bold variety of sounds. Perfect for a fun night along the river, grab your tickets and get ready to party.


Party! Party! at Gas Lamp 

  • Gas Lamp, 1501 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
  • Sunday August 15,  8 p.m.

Party! Party! is playing all your favorites. From Disney classics to today’s top hits; they are the ultimate karaoke band. Noted as one of Iowa’s top party bands, this event is the perfect way to blow off steam and dance away stress before diving into the work week.


Ready to tackle this weekend? Check out all of our weekend guides here