The Fourth Annual Bayside Diamond Ball, a spectacular fundraising event produced by the Des Moines Legacy Foundation, will be held Saturday, June 6, 2026, 5:30-9 p.m. at the Des Moines Yacht Club. 

“It’s all to build the Des Moines community!”

The Des Moines Legacy Foundation, established in December 1999, is a 501c3 nonprofit community charity dedicated to enhancing the community of Des Moines through various initiatives and projects.

This year, the Bayside Diamond Ball “PARTY” features a star-studded line-up of sequins and diamonds (“please come dressed in your finest, fanciest, or funniest glittery frocks!”), with:

  • There will be diamond-studded prizes for the best-dressed!  
  • Enjoy a grand champagne entrance.
  • An acoustic Tribute to Neil Diamond performed by Ted Pickett singing Diamond’s biggest hits “Sweet Caroline”, “Forever in Blue Jeans”, “Cherry, Cherry”, “Cracklin’ Rosie”, “Song Sung Blue”, at your table, along with an audience sing-along.
  • Want to dance? You’re in luck! DJ Bugzy Beatdown will perform exciting diamond-themed dance and party music that will sparkle your evening.
  • Are you the next Des Moines Superstar? Joe Shelton and Hampton Isom will host the live Stick Lounge Podcast and interview our special guests!

Attendees can expect delicious charcuterie and desserts by Legacy’s own Chef Richard and local eateries. Live music and entertainment, photos with Superstars, table serenades, sing-alongs, and dancing, celebrating the timeless classics made famous by Neil Diamond. Special guests Stick Lounge Podcast will interview guests and document the entire event. And more surprise musical quests will join the festivities!

A live auction, raffle, and silent auction featuring incredible vacations such a Holland America Cruise for 2 (value $3,400), Alaska Airline Tickets for 2 (value $3,500), Seattle Mariners – 4 Main Level or Terrace Club Tickets, Thunderbirds Tickets, Salmon Fishing Adventure, specialty gifts from local businesses, and original art and glassworks by local artists and personalities will highlight the event! 

Now, the reason for the party! Please join your neighbors in raising the Paddle and giving generously to the many community charitable organizations and activities that help build our community!

Many of the auction items will be available for viewing starting May 1 at www.DMLegacy.org.

Legacy’s Legacy

Legacy’s community projects and fundraising focuses for 2026 include:

  • Free Swimming Lessons and Free Swims for underserved Des Moines youth at Mt. Rainier Pool – in partnership with Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District.
  • Free Youth Recreation Programs and Scholarships for all Kids to participate in life-enhancing programs such as Camp Khaos, Afterschool programs, Sports, Culture, and Special Events. In partnership with the City of Des Moines Community Enhancement Department.
  • Free Waterland Children’s Festival, Friday, July 17, Noon- 4 p.m. at Des Moines Field House Park. Interactive Inflatables, Hydroplane decorating, Cardboard Waterland Parade Float making, Camp KHAOS games, sports, and water fun, Arts and Crafts: Decorate a hat, kite, and You, Miss Melanie’s Dance performances, Karate NW, KC Des Moines Library games, Mt. Rainier Pool Duck Pond, Free Summer Lunch with Des Moines Area Food Bank, and Hot Dogs and Ice Cream vendors! Waterland Festival Parade “Kids section,” Saturday, July 18. In partnership with City of Des Moines, Rotary Club of Des Moines Normandy Park, Des Moines Yacht Club, Wesley Des Moines Wood Shop, Red Robin, Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District, King County/Des Moines Library, Printplace, Karate NW, South King Media, Waterland Festival Committee, and Volunteers!
  • Free International Sculpture Day at George C. Scott Studios, on the last Saturday of April each year. Make-and-take sculptures, glass art, and crafts for all ages. In partnership with 4Culture and Inkfish Foundation (read more here).
  • Free Live and Local Summer Concerts at the Quarterdeck, June 10, July 18, August 13, and August 26. Held with partners 4Culture and the Quarterdeck.
  • Free Des Moines Area Food Bank Picnic in the Park, traveling Lunch and Snacks program visiting Des Moines schools and parks, during summer break, June to September. The DMAFB serves thousands of food-deprived local families annually.
  • Free Entertainment at Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market, every Saturday, June- September, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.. In partnership with 4 Culture and DMWFM.
  • Annual Kayleen Moon Community Service Scholarship awarded to a Des Moines student. In partnership with Dollars for Scholars.
  • Coming in 2026 – Senior Art Workshops, more details to come!

Don’t Miss Out! 

“Legacy celebrations can only happen with the support of our great community of leaders and businesses,” organizers said. “Become an Event Sponsor or a VIP Table Sponsor!

“AND, Please Join Us! Buy your Bayside Diamond Ball Tickets, including VIP, General, and Senior tickets and Tables of 8-10 attendees!”

Tickets Available Now

Click here for tickets, or scan this QR code to sign up today:

Thanks to 2026 Partners and Sponsors

  • Alaska Airlines
  • Anthony’s Homeport
  • Holland America Cruises
  • Stick Lounge Podcast/Creole Soul
  • Key Bank
  • Wesley Des Moines
  • Des Moines Yacht Club First Mates
  • City of Des Moines
  • Rotary Club of Des Moines Normandy Park
  • Salon Michelle
  • South King Media/Waterland Blog
  • George C. Scott Studios/Inkfish Foundation
  • 4Culture
  • Quarterdeck