GREATER DES MOINES, Iowa — Excitement is building for the World Food & Music Festival, set to take place from August 22 to 24, 2025, in Western Gateway Park, Downtown Des Moines. This year, the festival will showcase 56 food vendors from 23 different countries, with 13 fresh faces joining the lineup, reflecting the vibrant culinary diversity of the region.
Among the vendors, six will come from the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Spark DSM Business Incubator. Attendees can look forward to meals marked for dietary needs like gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. For the full list of vendors, check The Partnership’s website.
Beyond food, the festival will feature six local merchants, including:
- Alohana Creations
- Ethnic Fusion
- Iowahenna & Facepainting
- Inti Fair Trade
- Josina Supplies LLC
- Nectar of the Vine
Two nonprofits, Annie’s Foundation and AFS Intercultural Programs USA, will also be part of the event. This initiative reflects the festival’s commitment to community engagement and support.
Amelia Klatt, the director of events for The Partnership, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “We’re excited to bring back a festival recognized among the top cultural celebrations in the nation. It’s a chance for everyone to explore new tastes and meet our new vendors.” Such festivals hold a significant place in promoting cultural understanding and community spirit.
The festival has been a staple in Des Moines for over 20 years, celebrating global cultures right in the heart of the city. Recent trends show that attendance at such events has risen, especially after pandemic restrictions eased. Data indicates that 68% of people prefer attending local cultural events. Events like this not only support local economies but also foster community ties.
Shelly McGill from Veridian Credit Union highlighted the importance of such gatherings: “Des Moines thrives on these celebrations that bring us together. We are proud to support this vibrant festival.” With sponsors like BRAVO, Midwest Living, and others, the festival aims to enhance the local cultural landscape.
If you’re interested in getting involved, volunteering opportunities are available on The Festival’s Website. For more updates on the festival, visit the World Food & Music Festival’s site.
Source link
Greater Des Moines Partnership