Major Events & Festivals in Des Moines, Iowa, United States

All Topics about Des Moines All Cities in United States

1. Iowa State Fair

America's largest state fair offering food, exhibits, entertainment, and more; includes a famous butter cow and a tractor pull competition.

Food Variety: Taste a wide range of Iowa's best foods from pork chops on a stick to deep-fried twinkies.
Exhibits: Learn about Iowa's agriculture, technology, and culture through various exhibitions.
Entertainment: Enjoy concerts, shows, and performances by popular artists throughout the fair.

Annual outdoor arts festival showcasing local, national, and international artists in visual, music, and performing arts.

Artistic Variety: Browse a diverse collection of visual art from painting, sculpture, photography, to glasswork.
Live Performances: Enjoy live music and dance performances on various stages throughout the festival.
Community Engagement: Participate in hands-on art activities, workshops, and demonstrations.

Multi-day jazz festival featuring local, national, and international artists; offers free concerts throughout downtown Des Moines.

Genre Diversity: Experience various subgenres of jazz music such as traditional, modern, and fusion.
Outdoor Concerts: Relax and enjoy the music while surrounded by beautiful downtown Des Moines landscapes.
Community Spirit: Connect with fellow jazz enthusiasts, artists, and the local community.

Triple-A minor league baseball team affiliated with the Chicago Cubs; plays at Principal Park in downtown Des Moines.

Professional Baseball Experience: Watch up-and-coming players on their way to the major leagues.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Enjoy an evening of baseball with food, entertainment, and fun for all ages.
Historic Ballpark: Visit a ballpark that offers a unique blend of modern amenities and classic charm.

Celebration of Asian culture featuring food, music, dance, art, and more; held annually in Des Moines' Western Gateway Park.

Food Sampling: Savor traditional Asian dishes from various countries.
Art and Culture: Learn about Asian art, history, and traditions through exhibitions and demonstrations.
Entertainment: Enjoy performances by Asian musicians, dancers, and artists.

Multidisciplinary arts center offering theater productions, visual art exhibitions, workshops, and community events.

Artistic Diversity: Experience a range of artistic performances and exhibits from local, national, and international artists.
Community Engagement: Participate in workshops, classes, and community events that encourage creativity and collaboration.
Accessible Venue: Visit a welcoming, accessible venue with multiple spaces for various types of artistic expression.

Annual festival celebrating Greek culture and cuisine; includes live music, dance performances, church tours, and more.

Authentic Greek Food: Indulge in delicious traditional Greek dishes such as moussaka, gyro, and baklava.
Cultural Education: Learn about Greek history, traditions, and customs through exhibitions, demonstrations, and workshops.
Community Spirit: Connect with the Des Moines Greek community and enjoy a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Outdoor sculpture park featuring more than 70 works by internationally recognized artists.

Artistic Expression: Experience various forms of artistic expression through contemporary and abstract sculptures.
Outdoor Experience: Enjoy a scenic walk through beautifully landscaped gardens while taking in the artwork.
Educational Programs: Participate in guided tours, workshops, and educational programs for deeper understanding of the sculptures.

German festival celebrating food, drink, music, and dance; includes a keg tapping ceremony and various competitions.

Authentic German Food: Indulge in traditional German dishes such as bratwurst, sauerbraten, and pretzels.
Live Music and Dance: Enjoy live polka music and dance performances throughout the festival.
Community Spirit: Connect with fellow Oktoberfest enthusiasts, Germans, and the local community.

Holiday trolley ride through downtown Des Moines to view festive holiday lights and decorations.

Festive Atmosphere: Experience the magic of the holiday season with beautiful lights, decorations, and music.
Historic Landmarks: See downtown Des Moines' historic buildings and landmarks adorned in holiday splendor.
Comfortable Transportation: Enjoy a warm, comfortable ride on a trolley while viewing the lights.

Annual art market showcasing works from local, national, and international artists in a variety of mediums.

Artistic Variety: Browse a diverse collection of artwork including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and more.
Supporting Artists: Directly support artists by purchasing their work at the art market.
Community Engagement: Connect with fellow art enthusiasts, artists, and the local community during this event.

Annual festival celebrating blues music and barbecue; features local, national, and international artists.

Music Variety: Experience various subgenres of blues music such as traditional, modern, and fusion.
Barbecue Tasting: Savor delicious barbecue from local restaurants and vendors.
Community Spirit: Connect with fellow blues enthusiasts, musicians, and the local community.

Annual black-tie event celebrating the new year with food, drinks, music, and dancing.

Formal Attire: Dress up in formal attire for an elegant evening out.
Festive Atmosphere: Celebrate the new year with food, drinks, and entertainment.
Community Connections: Connect with fellow community members and ring in the new year together.

Annual LGBTQ+ pride festival featuring music, speakers, vendors, and a parade.

Support for the LGBTQ+ Community: Celebrate and support the local LGBTQ+ community during this event.
Diversity and Inclusion: Learn about different aspects of LGBTQ+ culture, history, and issues.
Community Connections: Connect with fellow LGBTQ+ individuals, allies, and the local community.

Weekly farmers market offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, live music, and food trucks.

Fresh Produce: Purchase locally grown fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
Artisanal Goods: Discover handmade crafts, art, and other goods from local vendors.
Community Gathering: Connect with fellow community members, farmers, and artisans while enjoying live music and food.