Outdoor Live Music at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

When the days grow longer and the breeze off the river drifts through the trees and flowers, there’s something magical about music beneath the open sky.

At the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, the Music in the Garden summer concert series is more than live entertainment—it’s an experience that blends nature, art, community, and wellbeing. Surrounded by lush gardens and summer blooms, each Thursday evening becomes a chance to slow down, reconnect, and celebrate the season.

A Natural Soundscape

The Botanical Garden’s outdoor setting creates a soft, natural soundscape that enhances every performance without overwhelming the senses. Surrounded by rustling leaves, flowering plants, and open skies, guests don’t just hear the music—they feel it.

The rhythm blends with birdsong. Melodies drift through the gardens. The setting feels both intimate and expansive, making each concert feel personal, immersive, and unforgettable.

This is one of the most unique Des Moines summer concert experiences—live music framed by nature itself.

As the Sun Sets, the Vibes Rise

There’s a special kind of beauty that happens as evening settles over the Garden.

Golden sunlight filters through the trees while local musicians set the tone with folk, jazz, blues, and timeless favorites that harmonize with the landscape. Guests spread out on blankets, settle into lawn chairs, and stroll winding pathways while music fills the air.

It’s not just a concert—it’s a summer ritual.

More Than Music: Why It Feels So Good

The joy of Music in the Garden goes beyond the playlist.

Studies consistently show that time spent in green spaces combined with live music supports emotional restoration, lowers stress, and improves overall wellbeing. Whether you’re dancing to a favorite song or simply listening quietly among the flowers, these evenings encourage mindfulness and connection.

Music in the Garden creates space for:

• Community and shared experiences
• Stress relief and emotional reset
• Appreciation for local musicians and artists
• A deeper connection to nature and the season

It’s a reminder that sometimes the best therapy is a warm evening, live music, and a place to breathe.

Summer in Full Bloom

When the first chord rings out across the Garden this summer, it’s not just the start of a concert—it’s the beginning of a celebration.

This is summer in full bloom.

Come for the music. Stay for the atmosphere. Leave feeling lighter.

Season Passes or Individual Tickets

Enjoy all 12 concerts with a Season Pass, which includes early entry at 5:30 PM.

Single tickets are also available online or at the door.

• Members save 50%

Not a member yet? Join today and make the most of your summer evenings.

Music in the Garden 2026

Thursdays | June 4 – August 20

Doors Open: 6:00 PM

Concerts: 6:30–8:30 PM

Bring a blanket, gather your people, and let the Garden set the soundtrack for your summer.