Black Iowa News

Midnight Mic's Decades After Dark!
2026-08-27 19:00 - 22:00 (America/Chicago) | Highland Underground – Highland Park, 3614 6th Ave. #100, Des Moines, IA, 50313
Midnight Mic’s Decades After Dark!
Time: 7:00 – 10:00p.m.
Location: Highland Underground (Highland Park – 3614 6th Ave., Suite 100) Des Moines, IA 50313
Date: August 27th

Midnight Mic’s Decades After Dark What’s Included with Your Ticket: Stage-Side Access: Exclusive reserved seating right by the action for karaoke participants and ticket holders. Open Catalog & Live Queue: Choose from our full song catalog spanning the decades. Follow the theme, pull up our live queue on your phone, and get ready to shine under the lights. The Full Experience: Enjoy fine beverages, fondue, and a vintage atmosphere inside one of the coolest underground spots in town. Note: Grab your tickets early to secure your spot in the room and guaranteed queue access!

Black Iowa Outdoors Community Trash Pick UP
2026-08-29 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Evergreen Park, 2135 E Park Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50320, United States
Black Iowa Outdoors Community Trash Pick UP
When: August 29th
Where: Evergreen Park, Playground, 3201 Southeast 21st Street, Des Moines, IA
Time: 10:00a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

This is a community-focused trash pick-up designed to clean up Evergreen Park while connecting with neighbors and enjoying the outdoors. Participants can meet new people, enjoy fresh air, and help keep the park beautiful.
This event is a great way to give back to your community while enjoying a fun, active day outdoors. For updates or to confirm details, you can check the Black Iowa Outdoors event page or Eventbrite listing.

7th Annual Sista Soul Fest
2026-08-30 11:00 - 16:00 (America/Toronto) | IA
7th Annual Sista Soul Fest
Join us for the 7th Annual
Sista Soul Fest – Des Moines
Sunday, August 30, 2026,
11 AM – 4 PM
Location: TBD

Join us for the 7th Annual
Sista Soul Fest – Des Moines
Sunday, August 30, 2026,
11 AM – 4 PM
Location: TBD
Sista Soul Fest is a celebration of culture, creativity, entrepreneurship, and community.
This year’s theme, “We’re Better Together,” reflects the heart of Sista Soul Fest and the belief that there is power in unity, beauty in diversity, and strength in community.
Sista Soul Fest 2026 celebrates the power within us all: the artist, the survivor, the dreamer, and the leader. We are both beauty and strength, rooted in culture and driven by purpose.

Convivium Urban Farmstead - Black Men's Wellness Group
2026-09-01 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Convivium Urban Farmstead, 2811 Jackson St., Dubuque, IA, 52001
Black Men’s Wellness Group

Date: September 1, 2026
Time: 6-8p.m.
Location: Convivium Urban Farmstead, 2811 Jackson St. Dubuque IA
First Tuesday of each month

Convivium Urban Farmstead is a nonprofit whose mission is to improve life through food. We accomplish our mission through classes, demonstrations and experiences that use food to foster connection to ourselves, our community and the environment. These programs cover three areas of the food cycle: the production (GROW), preparation and preservation (COOK) and the sharing and enjoyment of food (EAT).
Convivium was founded on the idea that most of the world’s problems stems from a lack of connection—to our own health, to our neighbors and community, and to the environment. At Convivium, we hope to foster this connection—or reconnection—to those areas of our lives and we use FOOD to do it. Why food? Because it is universal. Everyone eats! And the ritual of eating is more than just satisfying our hunger—it involves the farmer that grew it; the soul, sun and rain that gave it life; the person who prepared it; and the people with whom we enjoy it.

Multicultural Fall Festival
2026-09-12 11:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Evelyn K Davis Park, 1400 Forest Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50314, United States
Multicultural Fall Festival
Where: Evelyn K. Davis Park, 1400 Forest Ave., Des Moines, IA 50314
Date: September 12, 2026
Time: 11-2:00 p.m.

CELEBRATING REGIONAL TALENT IN THE REIMAGINED STONER THEATER
2026-09-17 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Des Moines Performing Arts, 221 Walnut St., Des Moines, IA, 50309
DES MOINES PERFORMING ARTS ANNOUNCES DYNAMIC SEASON OF MADE IN THE MIDWEST, CELEBRATING REGIONAL TALENT IN THE REIMAGINED STONER THEATER

Date: September 17,
Location: 221 Walnut Street, Des Moines, IA 50309
Time: 7:00p.m.

DES MOINES, IA – Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) is turning up the volume on local talent with the return of its Made in the Midwest series – a celebration of regional artists that continues to spotlight the creativity, diversity and energy of Midwest musicians.

For its upcoming season, the series moves into the reimagined Stoner Theater, an intimate, revitalized space designed to bring audiences closer than ever to the music and the artists behind it. The result is unforgettable performances where connection, creativity and community take center stage.

The fall 2026 lineup showcases five stand-out acts spanning indie, soul, pop, jazz and bluegrass:

Dickie | Indie
Thursday, Sept. 17

Opener: Joel Sires
Dick Prall a.k.a. Dickie has created a sweeping, introspective collection of records that drift between lush folk, shimmering alt-pop, and windswept heartland rock. Featured in Paste, NME, and American Songwriter, Dickie has long crafted songs that ache and glow in equal measure.Recorded at Golden Bear Records with producer Bryan Vanderpool, Dickie’s latest EP “Headful of Hiss” brings a timeless warmth and cinematic scope to compliment Prall’s ever-evolving sound.

Launched in January 2025, Made in the Midwest was created to elevate independent artists and shine a light on the region’s vibrant music scene. This series reflects DMPA’s ongoing commitment to uplifting diverse voices and offering platforms where artists can bring their full, authentic selves to the stage.

“At Des Moines Performing Arts, we believe the arts are essential – not just for entertainment, but for building stronger communities,” said Brooke Bridenstine, director of programming. “Through programs like Made in the Midwest, we’re investing in local artists, fostering creativity and creating spaces where meaningful connections happen.”
Tickets for all performances are available at DMPA.org, by calling (515) 246-2300 or stopping by the Civic Center Ticket Office at 221 Walnut Street in Des Moines. Remaining tickets will be available for purchase on site the night of each performance.

Assets for each artist and the series logo are available here.

For interview opportunities, please contact Shelby Hisel.

About Des Moines Performing Arts
For more than 45 years, Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) has been one of Iowa’s premier not-for-profit arts organizations – engaging, entertaining and inspiring more than 350,000 people each year. From the Des Moines Civic Center to the Temple Theater, Cowles Commons, and the Stoner Theater, DMPA strengthens communities through world-class performances, arts-inspired education and shared cultural experiences. Beyond its stages, DMPA brings Broadway, dance and family programming into schools and neighborhoods, ensuring access for students and families who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend.

DMPA proudly acknowledges support from its premier partners: Willis Automotive Campus, EMC Insurance, Prairie Meadows, Hy-Vee, and Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

ICAGAC2026
2026-09-23 - 2026-09-24 | IA
International Conference on Advances in Gravitation, Astrophysics and Cosmology
Date: September 23-24th 2026
Location: Berlin, Germany

The International Conference on Advances in Gravitation, Astrophysics and Cosmology (ICAGAC2026) is a premier forum that brings together leading researchers, scientists, scholars and practitioners from around the globe.
It is dedicated to exploring the frontiers of gravitational physics, astrophysics, cosmology and related disciplines. Through an enriching mix of keynote lectures, invited talks, contributed oral presentations, poster sessions and exhibitions, The International Conference on Advances in Gravitation, Astrophysics and Cosmology fosters rigorous scientific exchange, collaborative networking, and the cross-fertilization of ideas across theory, experiment and observation.
This event offers a unique platform for insightful discussions, new partnerships, and the exchange of groundbreaking ideas.
We invite you to Berlin, Germany to engage in a dynamic scientific event and contribute to the progress of astrophysical research.
To register: Register | International Conference On Advances in Gravitation, Astrophysics, and Cosmology | Pages Conferences
To learn more about conference see ICAGA2026-brochure.pdf

Convivium Urban Farmstead - Black Men's Wellness Group
2026-10-06 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Convivium Urban Farmstead, 2811 Jackson St., Dubuque, IA, 52001
Black Men’s Wellness Group

Date: October 6, 2026
Time: 6-8p.m.
Location: Convivium Urban Farmstead, 2811 Jackson St. Dubuque IA
First Tuesday of each month

Convivium Urban Farmstead is a nonprofit whose mission is to improve life through food. We accomplish our mission through classes, demonstrations and experiences that use food to foster connection to ourselves, our community and the environment. These programs cover three areas of the food cycle: the production (GROW), preparation and preservation (COOK) and the sharing and enjoyment of food (EAT).
Convivium was founded on the idea that most of the world’s problems stems from a lack of connection—to our own health, to our neighbors and community, and to the environment. At Convivium, we hope to foster this connection—or reconnection—to those areas of our lives and we use FOOD to do it. Why food? Because it is universal. Everyone eats! And the ritual of eating is more than just satisfying our hunger—it involves the farmer that grew it; the soul, sun and rain that gave it life; the person who prepared it; and the people with whom we enjoy it.

2026 ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S
2026-10-10 09:00 - 11:00 (America/Chicago) | Principal Park, 1 Line Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50309
2026 ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S
Date: October 10, 2026
Location: Principal Park – 1 Line Dr, Des Moines, IA
Time: Opening ceremony 9:00 a.m. – walk immediately after
Des Moines Residents Set to Raise Awareness and Funds for Alzheimer’s Care, Support and
Research The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting Des Moines residents to join
the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Des Moines on Saturday, October 10 at Principal Park, 1 Line Drive.
“This is a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer’s. With new treatments and proven lifestyle habits that support brain health, there is real hope,” said Dave Grams, Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association Iowa Chapter. “Together, we can build a brain-healthy future and help end this disease. We invite everyone to join us by forming a team to raise awareness and funds for families facing Alzheimer’s today.”
On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each color representing their personal connection to the disease.
More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease in the United States. Additionally, nearly 13 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In Iowa, there are more than 62,100 people living with the disease and 80,000 caregivers.
To register and receive the latest updates on this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit alz.org/walk. Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®
The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association® mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk®; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s Association®
The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.

Slay the Runway Children's Fashion Show
2026-10-10 13:00 - 17:00 (America/Toronto) | Holiday Inn, 4800 Merle Hay Road, Urbandale, IA, 50322
Slay the Runway Children’s Fashion Show – Red Carpet Affair
Date: Saturday, October 10, 2026
Location: Holiday Inn – 4800 Merle Hay Road, Urbandale, IA 50322

CELEBRATING REGIONAL TALENT IN THE REIMAGINED STONER THEATER
2026-10-15 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Des Moines Performing Arts, 221 Walnut St., Des Moines, IA, 50309
DES MOINES PERFORMING ARTS ANNOUNCES DYNAMIC SEASON OF MADE IN THE MIDWEST, CELEBRATING REGIONAL TALENT IN THE REIMAGINED STONER THEATER

Date: October 15, 2026
Time: 7:00p.m.
Location: Des Moines, Performing Arts Center, 221 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309

Tae & The Neighborly, a Wisconsin based Soul-pop R&B group, found themselves playing music together in a very unconventional way. They were all neighbors, each one living alone on one floor of a five-story flat. Cake baking is a shared passion of the five-member group, but in the sugar shortages early in the 2020 pandemic, they found themselves so continually knocking on each other’s doors asking for a single cup of sugar that a group decision was made to all move in together and share cake-baking resources. And since everyone knows all good rhythms begin in the kitchen, it wasn’t before long that the group began to write and perform together across the nation.
Critics hail the group as “having more kick than a bagged-up mule” (Rotary Times) and their live show “…going down smoother than a can of [beans] warmed on the campfire” (Cowboy Gazette). All in all, if you are looking for a dense show that will give you more inspiration fuel for self lovin’, world changin’, and consideration havin’ meet them where the music is made to be shared.
DES MOINES, IA – Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) is turning up the volume on local talent with the return of its Made in the Midwest series – a celebration of regional artists that continues to spotlight the creativity, diversity and energy of Midwest musicians.

For its upcoming season, the series moves into the reimagined Stoner Theater, an intimate, revitalized space designed to bring audiences closer than ever to the music and the artists behind it. The result is unforgettable performances where connection, creativity and community take center stage.

The fall 2026 lineup showcases five stand-out acts spanning indie, soul, pop, jazz and bluegrass:

TAE & The Neighborly | Soul & Pop
Thursday, Oct. 15

Opener: Rutabaga

Launched in January 2025, Made in the Midwest was created to elevate independent artists and shine a light on the region’s vibrant music scene. This series reflects DMPA’s ongoing commitment to uplifting diverse voices and offering platforms where artists can bring their full, authentic selves to the stage.

“At Des Moines Performing Arts, we believe the arts are essential – not just for entertainment, but for building stronger communities,” said Brooke Bridenstine, director of programming. “Through programs like Made in the Midwest, we’re investing in local artists, fostering creativity and creating spaces where meaningful connections happen.”
Tickets for all performances are available at DMPA.org, by calling (515) 246-2300 or stopping by the Civic Center Ticket Office at 221 Walnut Street in Des Moines. Remaining tickets will be available for purchase on site the night of each performance.

Assets for each artist and the series logo are available here.

For interview opportunities, please contact Shelby Hisel.

About Des Moines Performing Arts
For more than 45 years, Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) has been one of Iowa’s premier not-for-profit arts organizations – engaging, entertaining and inspiring more than 350,000 people each year. From the Des Moines Civic Center to the Temple Theater, Cowles Commons, and the Stoner Theater, DMPA strengthens communities through world-class performances, arts-inspired education and shared cultural experiences. Beyond its stages, DMPA brings Broadway, dance and family programming into schools and neighborhoods, ensuring access for students and families who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend.

DMPA proudly acknowledges support from its premier partners: Willis Automotive Campus, EMC Insurance, Prairie Meadows, Hy-Vee, and Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

Convivium Urban Farmstead - Black Men's Wellness Group
2026-11-03 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Convivium Urban Farmstead, 2811 Jackson St., Dubuque, IA, 52001
Black Men’s Wellness Group

Date: November 3, 2026
Time: 6-8p.m.
Location: Convivium Urban Farmstead, 2811 Jackson St. Dubuque IA
First Tuesday of each month

Convivium Urban Farmstead is a nonprofit whose mission is to improve life through food. We accomplish our mission through classes, demonstrations and experiences that use food to foster connection to ourselves, our community and the environment. These programs cover three areas of the food cycle: the production (GROW), preparation and preservation (COOK) and the sharing and enjoyment of food (EAT).
Convivium was founded on the idea that most of the world’s problems stems from a lack of connection—to our own health, to our neighbors and community, and to the environment. At Convivium, we hope to foster this connection—or reconnection—to those areas of our lives and we use FOOD to do it. Why food? Because it is universal. Everyone eats! And the ritual of eating is more than just satisfying our hunger—it involves the farmer that grew it; the soul, sun and rain that gave it life; the person who prepared it; and the people with whom we enjoy it.

CELEBRATING REGIONAL TALENT IN THE REIMAGINED STONER THEATER
2026-11-07 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Des Moines Performing Arts, 221 Walnut St., Des Moines, IA, 50309
DES MOINES PERFORMING ARTS ANNOUNCES DYNAMIC SEASON OF MADE IN THE MIDWEST, CELEBRATING REGIONAL TALENT IN THE REIMAGINED STONER THEATER

Date: November 7, 2026
Time: 7:00p.m.
Location: Des Moines Performing Arts Center, 221 Walnut St., Des Moines, IA 50309

NOLA Jazz Band Quartet | Jazz

Founded in Des Moines, Iowa, the band is comprised of master musicians who are passionate about preserving the legacy of the music they love, while bringing a fun, exciting energy to engage any audience. Featured in festivals and concerts nationwide, The NOLA Jazz Band is a unique and exuberant celebration of a bygone era with a creative, playful nod to the modern music and pop culture.
The NOLA Jazz Band’s “gutsy and heartfelt” blues & jazz stylings has earned them a nationwide fan base. The group varies from it’s full 7 piece band to smaller combos – all lead by band leader and jazz clarinet player/vocalist Jeff Kane. The band has played for many Festivals and music hot spots around the Midwest and Central Iowa including: Iowa City Jazz Festival, Bix Beiderbecke Festival, World Food & Music Festival, River Music Experience, Des Moines Art Festival, Jazz in July, Ingersoll Live, Galena Music Festival, and Botanical Center Music in The Gardens to name a few.
The band has produced three albums and has played with some of the biggest movers and shakers in the Blues, Swing, and Jazz scenes including: Benny Bennack III, Bria Skonberg, Evan Christopher, Marla Dixon and Shotgun Jazz Band, Paul Mehling and Hot Club of San Francisco, Davina & the Vagabonds, and many others.

DES MOINES, IA – Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) is turning up the volume on local talent with the return of its Made in the Midwest series – a celebration of regional artists that continues to spotlight the creativity, diversity and energy of Midwest musicians.
For its upcoming season, the series moves into the reimagined Stoner Theater, an intimate, revitalized space designed to bring audiences closer than ever to the music and the artists behind it. The result is unforgettable performances where connection, creativity and community take center stage.
The fall 2026 lineup showcases five stand-out acts spanning indie, soul, pop, jazz and bluegrass:

Launched in January 2025, Made in the Midwest was created to elevate independent artists and shine a light on the region’s vibrant music scene. This series reflects DMPA’s ongoing commitment to uplifting diverse voices and offering platforms where artists can bring their full, authentic selves to the stage.
“At Des Moines Performing Arts, we believe the arts are essential – not just for entertainment, but for building stronger communities,” said Brooke Bridenstine, director of programming. “Through programs like Made in the Midwest, we’re investing in local artists, fostering creativity and creating spaces where meaningful connections happen.”
Tickets for all performances are available at DMPA.org, by calling (515) 246-2300 or stopping by the Civic Center Ticket Office at 221 Walnut Street in Des Moines. Remaining tickets will be available for purchase on site the night of each performance.
Assets for each artist and the series logo are available here.
For interview opportunities, please contact Shelby Hisel.

About Des Moines Performing Arts
For more than 45 years, Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) has been one of Iowa’s premier not-for-profit arts organizations – engaging, entertaining and inspiring more than 350,000 people each year. From the Des Moines Civic Center to the Temple Theater, Cowles Commons, and the Stoner Theater, DMPA strengthens communities through world-class performances, arts-inspired education and shared cultural experiences. Beyond its stages, DMPA brings Broadway, dance and family programming into schools and neighborhoods, ensuring access for students and families who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend.

DMPA proudly acknowledges support from its premier partners: Willis Automotive Campus, EMC Insurance, Prairie Meadows, Hy-Vee, and Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

CELEBRATING REGIONAL TALENT IN THE REIMAGINED STONER THEATER
2026-11-14 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Des Moines Performing Arts, 221 Walnut St., Des Moines, IA, 50309
DES MOINES PERFORMING ARTS ANNOUNCES DYNAMIC SEASON OF MADE IN THE MIDWEST, CELEBRATING REGIONAL TALENT IN THE REIMAGINED STONER THEATER

Time: 7:00p.m.
Date: November 14, 2026
Location: Des Moines Performing Arts Center, 221 Walnut St., Des Moines, IA 50309

GreenTTea & The Tempos | Soul
Saturday, Nov. 14

Opener: Indi&Mk

GreenTTea and The Tempos are a Neo-Soul/Alternative Funk infused band, based in Chicago! This 7-piece team lives to serve up a plate of eccentrically soulful sounds. Taking on inspiration from timeless artists such as: Stevie wonder, Laura Nyro, D’Angelo, Jill Scott, and many more!
The various routes of perspective & expression through each member, unify as a foundation for each musical piece shared, and every sensible reflection or takeaway. To learn more about The Tempos’s journey, 1st album release (Tempoetic), merch drops, and upcoming events…
DES MOINES, IA – Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) is turning up the volume on local talent with the return of its Made in the Midwest series – a celebration of regional artists that continues to spotlight the creativity, diversity and energy of Midwest musicians.

For its upcoming season, the series moves into the reimagined Stoner Theater, an intimate, revitalized space designed to bring audiences closer than ever to the music and the artists behind it. The result is unforgettable performances where connection, creativity and community take center stage.
The fall 2026 lineup showcases five stand-out acts spanning indie, soul, pop, jazz and bluegrass:
“At Des Moines Performing Arts, we believe the arts are essential – not just for entertainment, but for building stronger communities,” said Brooke Bridenstine, director of programming. “Through programs like Made in the Midwest, we’re investing in local artists, fostering creativity and creating spaces where meaningful connections happen.”
Tickets for all performances are available at DMPA.org, by calling (515) 246-2300 or stopping by the Civic Center Ticket Office at 221 Walnut Street in Des Moines. Remaining tickets will be available for purchase on site the night of each performance.
Assets for each artist and the series logo are available here.
For interview opportunities, please contact Shelby Hisel.

About Des Moines Performing Arts
For more than 45 years, Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) has been one of Iowa’s premier not-for-profit arts organizations – engaging, entertaining and inspiring more than 350,000 people each year. From the Des Moines Civic Center to the Temple Theater, Cowles Commons, and the Stoner Theater, DMPA strengthens communities through world-class performances, arts-inspired education and shared cultural experiences. Beyond its stages, DMPA brings Broadway, dance and family programming into schools and neighborhoods, ensuring access for students and families who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend.

DMPA proudly acknowledges support from its premier partners: Willis Automotive Campus, EMC Insurance, Prairie Meadows, Hy-Vee, and Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

Convivium Urban Farmstead - Black Men's Wellness Group
2026-12-01 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Convivium Urban Farmstead, 2811 Jackson St., Dubuque, IA, 52001
Black Men’s Wellness Group

Date: December 1, 2026
Time: 6-8p.m.
Location: Convivium Urban Farmstead, 2811 Jackson St. Dubuque IA
First Tuesday of each month

Convivium Urban Farmstead is a nonprofit whose mission is to improve life through food. We accomplish our mission through classes, demonstrations and experiences that use food to foster connection to ourselves, our community and the environment. These programs cover three areas of the food cycle: the production (GROW), preparation and preservation (COOK) and the sharing and enjoyment of food (EAT).
Convivium was founded on the idea that most of the world’s problems stems from a lack of connection—to our own health, to our neighbors and community, and to the environment. At Convivium, we hope to foster this connection—or reconnection—to those areas of our lives and we use FOOD to do it. Why food? Because it is universal. Everyone eats! And the ritual of eating is more than just satisfying our hunger—it involves the farmer that grew it; the soul, sun and rain that gave it life; the person who prepared it; and the people with whom we enjoy it.

CELEBRATING REGIONAL TALENT IN THE REIMAGINED STONER THEATER
2026-12-03 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Des Moines Performing Arts, 221 Walnut St., Des Moines, IA, 50309
DES MOINES PERFORMING ARTS ANNOUNCES DYNAMIC SEASON OF MADE IN THE MIDWEST, CELEBRATING REGIONAL TALENT IN THE REIMAGINED STONER THEATER

Date: December 3, 2026
Time: 7:00p.m.
Location: Des Moines Performing Arts Center, 221 Walnut St., Des Moines Ia 50309

MoonShroom | Bluegrass/Americana
Thursday, Dec. 3

Opener: Casey Joe Collins

MoonShroom is the star crossed culmination of liberated artistic expression & high energy performance. Genuine songwriting is at the core of this dynamic project. Fueled by the song craft of Lily B Moonflower & Jake Keegan, the act hones their unique sound with genuine lyrics, tight vocal harmonies, and intricate instrumental conversation.
The group, hailing from Lawrence Kansas, performs captivating sets on stages far & wide. Featuring Lily B Moonflower on guitar & vocals, Jake Keegan on dobro & vocals, & Colby Allen Walter on bass & vocals. Together they create a unique sonic tapestry, building a bridge the audience can cross to feel a oneness with the musical energy radiating from the stage!

DES MOINES, IA – Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) is turning up the volume on local talent with the return of its Made in the Midwest series – a celebration of regional artists that continues to spotlight the creativity, diversity and energy of Midwest musicians.
For its upcoming season, the series moves into the reimagined Stoner Theater, an intimate, revitalized space designed to bring audiences closer than ever to the music and the artists behind it. The result is unforgettable performances where connection, creativity and community take center stage.
The fall 2026 lineup showcases five stand-out acts spanning indie, soul, pop, jazz and bluegrass:
Launched in January 2025, Made in the Midwest was created to elevate independent artists and shine a light on the region’s vibrant music scene. This series reflects DMPA’s ongoing commitment to uplifting diverse voices and offering platforms where artists can bring their full, authentic selves to the stage.

“At Des Moines Performing Arts, we believe the arts are essential – not just for entertainment, but for building stronger communities,” said Brooke Bridenstine, director of programming. “Through programs like Made in the Midwest, we’re investing in local artists, fostering creativity and creating spaces where meaningful connections happen.”
Tickets for all performances are available at DMPA.org, by calling (515) 246-2300 or stopping by the Civic Center Ticket Office at 221 Walnut Street in Des Moines. Remaining tickets will be available for purchase on site the night of each performance.
Assets for each artist and the series logo are available here.
For interview opportunities, please contact Shelby Hisel.

About Des Moines Performing Arts
For more than 45 years, Des Moines Performing Arts (DMPA) has been one of Iowa’s premier not-for-profit arts organizations – engaging, entertaining and inspiring more than 350,000 people each year. From the Des Moines Civic Center to the Temple Theater, Cowles Commons, and the Stoner Theater, DMPA strengthens communities through world-class performances, arts-inspired education and shared cultural experiences. Beyond its stages, DMPA brings Broadway, dance and family programming into schools and neighborhoods, ensuring access for students and families who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend.

DMPA proudly acknowledges support from its premier partners: Willis Automotive Campus, EMC Insurance, Prairie Meadows, Hy-Vee, and Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
