Tips for Taking Kids to Des Moines Arts Festivals

Tips for Taking Kids to Des Moines Arts Festivals

With two art festivals taking place in Des Moines this weekend, it’s a great time to expose the kids to some great local and national creative talent.  Our kids went to the Des Moines Arts Festival for the first time last year, and I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised at how much they seemed to enjoy it.  Sure, there’s a few booths that we skip…mainly those filled with glass or ceramic objects…but all in all the festivals offer quite a bit of FREE fun family entertainment. 

Even if your kids aren’t that into viewing all of the art, you can wander through the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, listen to some great music, make an art project at an art station and sample some great food and drink.  You can also feel proud that Des Moines offers such a unique and impressive showcase of the creative arts…for all ages.

Des Moines Arts Festival

Each June, the streets around the Western Gateway Park are transformed into a beautiful outdoor art gallery. This year, artists from 35 states will come together to display their fabulous artwork and attract countless art enthusiasts. A nationally-recognized event, the Des Moines Arts Festival features: 195 Artists, 26 Eclectic Food Booths and Food Trucks, 3 Live Music Stages, Best of 48 Hour Film Festival and a Creative Family Zone.

ArtFest Midwest

ArtFest Midwest “The Other Art Show”  features Iowa and regional artists. It is offered as an alternative, affordable art show to complement the downtown art festival. Visual art booths featuring the work of more than 250 artists is the highlight of the festival.  Kids activities and Barksdale’s Concessions will also entertain visitors at this non-juried art show.

Here are a few tips for taking kids to the arts festivals:

  • Wear comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen and bring water. Especially important for the downtown festival where all of the venues are outside.  If you have young children you will need to bring the stroller along.
  • Plan your outing. Take a look at the festivals’ websites before heading out. There’s a lot of walking at both events, so it’s a great idea to prioritize your “can’t miss” list before you go.
  • Remember live demonstrations and performances only occur once. So, you might want to schedule your outing around them.
  • Check out the food options. Take a look at the food vendors and the types of foods being offered at the festival. Can you find something your kid will eat? The Des Moines Arts Festival does not allow outside beverages and the Varied Industries Building does not allow any outside food or drink.
  • Be aware of the parking situation. There is street parking, parking ramps and valet parking available at the Des Moines Arts Festival.  However, spots fill up fast and their website recommends carpooling. Surface parking is available at the fairgrounds for the ArtFest Midwest.
  • Make a note where the potties are. Porta potties are available in two locations at the Des Moines Arts Festival and indoor toilets are available at ArtFest Midwest.
  • Go early or late.You can avoid the crowds and long lines by going earlier in the day. Another good option is to go on Sunday afternoon when the crowds start to thin out.
  • Talk to the artists. Some artists are chattier than others.  But it’s a great experience for kids to talk to the people that created the art they are looking at.
  • Bring cash. Some vendors accept cards, but not all of them.
  • Let kids explore.There’s so many cool things to see and interact with at art festivals.  Let the kids take in everything they have to offer.
  • The show will go on. Rain or shine. Make sure to check the weather and be prepared for whatever Mother Nature may have in store.

 

We want to hear from you Des Moines parents! Share your insider tips for taking kids to the arts festivals.