The Des Moines Arts Festival returns this weekend for its 29th year of art, music, food, and fun. Artists from around the country will have their work on display, with regular demonstrations, an interactive mural, and plenty of chances to take home some of your favorite pieces.
When and Where
The festival will take place in Western Gateway Park, located at 1205 Locust St., Des Moines. The event will run from Friday, June 26, at 11 a.m. to Sunday, June 28, at 5 p.m.
What is free to do? Attending the event and walking around to visit the individual booths, live music, parking at the Nationwide garage, using the bike valet, and viewing the film festival are all free.
What Costs Money?
Purchasing art, food, and drinks, as well as merchandise, will require a fee. Parking and road closures should also be taken into consideration when planning your visit.
Parking is free at the Nationwide Garage, located at 1100 Walnut Street. Metered street parking is available on surrounding streets. A bike valet will be available at the intersection of Locust and 10th Street. Handicap parking will be available on the north side of Walnut Street between 12th and 13th Street.
Road Closures
The 29th annual event has shut down 12th, 13th, and 15th streets between Grand Avenue and Locust Street, as well as Locust between 10th and 16th streets. These streets will be closed to vehicle traffic through Sunday.
Art Demonstrations
Throughout the weekend, people can learn and create alongside different artists as they demonstrate their unique skills and craft. Artists include Megan Hammer, Bill Lepak, Amanda McGee, Sebastian Sanchez-Falero, and many more.
Concert Schedule and Other Shows
The festival features a variety of concerts and shows, including performances by 28 Days Later, Dickie, Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors, and more.
Emerging Artists
The Emerging Iowa Artist Program is a juried showcase of promising visual artists that delivers a pathway into the competitive art industry. This year’s emerging artists include Alex Miller, Heather Smith, Rebekah DeWild, and more.
Tips for attending the festival include wearing sturdy shoes, as the festival spans a five-block radius, and staying hydrated and wearing sunscreen, as temps will cool down this weekend with highs in the 60s and 80s.
Policies
Photographs of the artwork are prohibited unless given explicit permission from the artist. No outside beverages are allowed, and bottled water will be available to purchase inside the festival. Alcoholic beverages will be available to purchase within the festival site.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
