75th Anniversary Community Lawn Party

Event Details

When the Des Moines Art Center opened its doors in 1948, one of the first celebratory events was a joyful gathering on the museum lawn. Our community came together, galvanized by a curiosity to experience the modern spaces and treasures of the new museum. 75 years later, the awe and inspiration of the Art Center endures. We invite the community to join us once again in our 75th anniversary for a lawn party in front of the museum!

Join us for a day of free art activities, ceramics demonstrations, old-fashioned games, live music spanning the eras provided by Midnight Madness Quartet and Girls Rock! Des Moines, and, of course, celebratory cake. Food truck favorites will be available for purchase from: Hey Schweetie, Karam’s Mediterranean Grill, Outside Scoop, and The Traveling Bean.

Art activities throughout the day include a Raku firing demonstration, wheel throwing and 75th anniversary commemorative vessels, weaving, souvenir sketchbooks, and scavenger hunt prompts. The museum galleries will be open! Explore the world-class art and architecture that has made the Des Moines Art Center remarkable since 1948. Check out the exhibition “Making the Art Center” (just off the lobby of the museum) to learn about the years of Art Center history.

Art Center members are encouraged to stop by the Membership Tent and show your printed or digital membership card for a gift* 75-year tote bag! Staff will also be available to assist anyone interested in becoming a member during the event. *While supplies last.

This event is free, and no registration is required. Scheduled to take place rain or shine.