Des Moines Will Host America’s Harvest Festival
The event arrives at the Iowa State Capitol grounds on October 24, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Fairs and Festivals
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Governor Kim Reynolds announced that Des Moines will host America's Harvest Festival on October 24, 2026. The free event takes place on the Iowa State Capitol grounds and includes a country music concert.
Why it matters
The festival is designed to commemorate America's 250th anniversary. It also highlights the historical and ongoing contributions of Iowa to national agricultural innovation.
The festival schedule spans from 1 p.m. until dusk, featuring performances by The Band Perry and LANCO. Admission to the entire event, including the concert and interactive exhibits, is free.
The players
Kim Reynolds
She is the Governor of Iowa who announced the details for the upcoming festival.
The Band Perry
They are a musical group scheduled to perform at the festival.
LANCO
They are a country music group slated to perform at the event.
The details
Attendees can expect a variety of interactive exhibits alongside an opening ceremony and a country music concert. The festivities are centered on the Iowa State Capitol grounds to mark the national milestone.
Timeline
October 24, 2026: The festival begins.
1 p.m.: Festivities officially open to the public.
2 p.m.: The opening ceremonies commence.
Dusk: All festival activities conclude.
Industry Dynamics
This festival reflects a broader trend of states utilizing local venues to anchor national anniversary celebrations. It follows a pattern set by the United States Semiquincentennial to engage residents with historical and state-specific agricultural themes.
Residents and visitors can attend the entire festival and musical performances for free. The event is located at the Iowa State Capitol grounds and requires no ticket purchase for entry.
The takeaway
Visitors planning to attend should arrive early to secure a spot for the concert and opening ceremony. Preparing for an outdoor event at the Capitol grounds is advised as activities run continuously from the afternoon until dusk.
Further reading
For more information on upcoming regional events, visit Fairs and Festivals.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KCCI.
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