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 2024, The International Festivals & Events Association (IFEA) presented the Des Moines Arts Festival the coveted Gold Grand Pinnacle Award for the second consecutive year, which translates as “the best festival in the world.” More than two million domestic and international visitors have attended the Festival through the years. This year’s festival encompasses a diverse selection of visual arts, live music, performing arts, interactive arts and a film festival. The event is being presented from June 24th- 26th in the Western Gateway Park.