Des Moines Arts Festival

From Des Moines Arts Festival Website:

Those who have experienced the Des Moines Arts Festival would not be surprised to know that this annual event has become a most remarkable international phenomenon. The festival has evolved since its first edition in 1958, when "Art in the Park" was hosted on the grounds of the Des Moines Art Center.

While the event name and venues have changed through the years, the festival mission remains unwavering to educate, inspire and engage audiences toward a heightened appreciation of visual and other forms of art and to enhance our sense of pride in the Des Moines community.


Pride does indeed run deep in our city. In 2016, the International Festivals & Events Association (IFEA) presented the Des Moines Arts Festival the coveted Gold Grand Pinnacle Award for the third consecutive year. More than two million domestic and international visitors have attended the Festival through the years. In 2017 we will celebrate our 20th anniversary on June 22-24 in the Western Gateway Park.