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.

Des Moines Arts Festival, Kids activities, Des Moines Arts Festival Kid's Activities, Des Moines, Iowa, arts festival

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.