Kid’s Guide to the Des Moines Arts Festival 2025
One of our favorite central Iowa festivals is the Des Moines Arts Festival. It is free to attend and there is a ton offered for all ages. Here is a kid’s guide to the Des Moines Arts Festival this summer in Western Gateway Park. Make sure you add it to your summer bucket list.
Dates
- Friday, June 27; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Saturday, June 28; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Sunday, June 29; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The schedule + interactive activities
You can find the complete schedule online. You can find everything from live music to special events and more.
Below is a small list of kids’ activities being offered by local businesses and organizations, some are located in the Creative Zone. Some are free, and some may ask for a small fee or donation.
- BOOM ART! An interactive Mural Project suspended 30 feet high from the all-new MidAmerican Energy all-electric bucket truck.
- Spin Art
- And much more!
Events of Interest
Details to come!
Other activities + events your kiddos will love
- Live music! There is a lot of open green space. Find a place to relax and enjoy one of the many artists lined up to perform. The kids will love to dance and run.
- Let the children run through and explore the John & Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park.
- Eat food. The Des Moines Arts Festival is a great place to enjoy delicious, local food.
Some tips to make your life a bit easier with kids
- Bring cash. Some food vendors and shops may accept cards, but not all. There are different ATM locations available.
- If you are bringing a stroller, throw a large blanket and/or foldable chair for sitting & listening to live music.
- Bring water bottles & snacks! There are food vendors, but you may want to eat one big meal.
- Bring a swimsuit and an extra change of clothes. There is a fun area to play and get wet. A great place to cool off in the heat of the Summer.
