Resonance and Rhythm: Strings & More Open Mic ( 2/21/26 )

The stage is set for an evening of acoustic exploration at our Strings & More Open Mic. Mars Coffee has a storied history of supporting local musicians, and this event continues that legacy by providing a platform for both burgeoning talents and seasoned performers.

Whether you are a guitarist, a cellist, or perhaps someone who specializes in the “more”—be it mandolin, banjo, or even spoken word set to melody—we invite you to share your craft. The “Strings & More” format is specifically designed to highlight the raw beauty of live performance within a supportive, intimate listening room environment.

Events like this are the lifeblood of the Des Moines arts scene. They matter because they offer a low-stakes, high-warmth environment for creative expression. Mars Coffee serves as the ideal venue for this because it isn’t just a business; it’s a neighborhood hub that believes in “business as a power for good.” By hosting these open mics, Mars helps revitalize the Drake Neighborhood, turning a simple street corner into a vibrant destination for culture and connection. Come to perform, or simply come to appreciate the local talent blooming right here in our community.

• Date: Saturday, February 21
• Time: 06:30 PM – 08:00 PM CST
• Location: Mars Coffee, 2318 University Ave

Mars Coffee (frequently known as Mars Cafe). Located at 2318 University Ave in the vibrant “Dogtown” neighborhood near Drake University, Mars is more than a mere caffeine station. Since 2006, it has served as a “third wave” coffee pioneer and a vital community anchor. It matters because it provides a “safe space” where the industrial-modern aesthetic meets the warmth of a neighborhood living room.