As summer starts heating up, so too are central Iowa’s festivals. Make sure to buy enough sunscreen – you’re going to need it while you’re meandering through these festivities.
Here’s a non-exhaustive list of some classics.
Capital City PrideFest, June 12-14
It’s the 47th year of Capital City Pride in 2026. Along with concerts, parades and drag, there will be a variety of other activities to keep you entertained. Video game tournament, anyone?
Neighbor’s Day, June 20
Hosted by Iowa Juneteenth, people can enjoy live entertainment while learning about the rich history and impact of Juneteenth in Iowa. This year’s theme is about History, Education, Leadership, People, and Community Well Being (H.E.L.P), according to their website.
Des Moines Arts Festival, June 26-28
Des Moines recently made the USA TODAY’S 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards’ list as one of the premier cities for art and cultural festivals. The annual multiday event dates back to the late 1950s and attracts hundreds of thousands of people every year to Western Gateway Park for musical performances, food and beverage stands, art exhibits and more.
Ankeny SummerFest, July 10-12
This year’s theme is “Jingle in July,” and people are coming together for three days of music, carnival rides and great local food. Organizers have added a new lip sync contest to this year’s lineup.
Waukee Arts Festival, July 17-18
Browse dozens of art vendors showcasing photography, printmaking and woodworking at the Waukee Arts Festival and enjoy live music during the event. Performers this year include XOLEX and a Bruce Springsteen cover band feature performance by The Monday Night Live Band.
National Balloon Classic, July 31-Aug. 8
It’s a classic for a reason. Watch as pilots man more than a hundred hot air balloons in this festival that’s been happening for over 50 years.
Adel Sweet Corn Festival, Aug. 8
Thousands of ears of sweet corn have been handed to guests at the Adel Sweet Corn Festival in previous years, and it’s easy to imagine the demand will continue this year. The festival returns for its 45th year with a parade, food vendors, a car show, children’s activities and of course, free corn.
World Food & Music Festival, Aug. 22-24
Head to Western Gateway Park in Des Moines on Aug. 22-24 to try food and drinks from around the world at the World Food & Music Festival. It was named one of the best cultural festivals in the country by the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards.
Iowa Wine and Cider Festival, Aug. 29
Sample over 20 Iowa wineries and cideries at the Iowa Wine & Cider Festival at Jasper Winery in Des Moines. Food vendors, lawn games, live music and more round out this festival perfect for wine enthusiasts.
Ingersoll Live, Aug. 29
Come out for the giant block party that is Ingersoll Live, which is celebrating 20 years. Enjoy live music, food and drink vendors, local business pop-up vendors, activities for children like face painting and mini golf and more.
Lucia Cheng is a service and trending reporter at the Des Moines Register. Contact her at lcheng@gannett.com or 515-284-8132.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Celebrate summer with these 10 festivals in the Des Moines metro
Reporting by Lucia Cheng and Paris Barraza, Des Moines Register / Des Moines Register
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Lucia Cheng and Paris Barraza, Des Moines Register | USA TODAY Network
