Des Moines Arts Festival 2026

The Des Moines Arts Festival® is one of the world's most respected juried art festivals, hosting 195 of the nation's top artists in a beautiful urban street setting surrounding the 4.4 acres of John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park and the Krause Gateway Center designed by Renzo Piano Building Workshop. The 16-time winner of the coveted Grand Pinnacle Award from the International Festivals and Events Association attracts more than 150,000 people each year to its downtown location in Iowa's capital city. The outdoor festival celebrating arts and culture is dedicated to the highest standards of excellence that fosters a progressive environment for artists and their clients.

The festival takes place March 31, 2026, with applications due January 18, 2026. Artists receive 10'x10' booth spaces for $615 with electricity included, and retain 100% of their sales. The jury process requires 4 images of work plus 1 booth image, with an application fee of $45 (early) or $55 (regular). Festival hours are Friday and Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 11am-5pm, with artists allowed to close at 9pm Friday and Saturday. Artists must provide general liability insurance with minimum $2,000,000 coverage and use professional white tents with proper weights.

Benefits include $10,500 in cash awards ($1500 Best of Show, three $1000 Juror Awards, up to five $1000 Awards of Excellence), comprehensive marketing campaign, 24-hour security, free parking, and various artist amenities. The festival also offers an Emerging Iowa Artist Program for Iowa residents currently enrolled in or recently graduated from art school, which waives booth fees and application fees with coupon code EIA2026.