Des Moines is getting ready to celebrate one of its most treasured summer traditions as the 2026 Des Moines Waterland Festival and Parade brings together families, businesses, community organizations, and visitors for a weekend filled with hometown pride, entertainment, and connection.
The celebration begins on Friday, July 17, with the 2026 Waterland Children’s Festival, presented by the Des Moines Legacy Foundation, followed by the Des Moines Waterland Festival and Parade on Saturday, July 18. This year’s celebration also introduces a new Waterland Block Party, extending the festivities long after the final parade float passes.
A Tradition Rooted in Community
The Des Moines Waterland Festival and Parade began in 1960, just one year after the City of Des Moines incorporated in 1959. Created as a celebration of the city’s identity as “The Waterland City,” the festival was established through the collaborative efforts of the City of Des Moines and local civic leaders. It quickly became an annual tradition, bringing together residents, businesses, volunteers, and community organizations to celebrate the city’s unique waterfront heritage.
Over the past 66 years, stewardship of the festival has been carried forward by several organizations, including the Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, Destination Des Moines, and today’s dedicated organizing committee and volunteers.
The 2026 celebration continues this legacy through the commitment of key volunteers Kristin Steinmetz, Michelle Curry, Karen Hynes, and Doreen Harper, whose leadership and dedication are helping ensure this beloved community event continues to grow.
The success of this year’s celebration is made possible through strong community partnerships and sponsors who continue to invest in bringing these traditions to life. The City of Des Moines is a sponsor of all three events, along with community supporters including the Waterland Blog, Rotary Club of Des Moines Normandy Park, Print Place, Porto Vino Italian Restaurant, and many other local sponsors dedicated to strengthening community connections and supporting family-friendly events.
2026 Waterland Children’s Festival Inspires the Next Generation
The weekend kicks off Friday, July 17, at Des Moines Field House Park with the 2026 Waterland Children’s Festival, presented by the Des Moines Legacy Foundation.
Designed to inspire creativity, imagination, and community connection, the festival offers children and families an afternoon filled with hands-on activities including arts and crafts, face painting, kite making, children’s float building for the Waterland Parade, and much more.
The Des Moines Legacy Foundation is also seeking volunteers to help create a memorable experience for local children. Volunteers are needed from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to assist with activities and help bring the festival to life.
The Des Moines Waterland Festival and Parade Returns
On Saturday, July 18, 2026, the community celebration continues with the Des Moines Waterland Festival and Parade, an official Seafair-sanctioned parade and one of South King County’s most anticipated summer events.
Parade entrants will begin check-in at 4:00 p.m., with the parade launching at 6:00 p.m.
The parade route travels southbound along Marine View Drive, beginning at South 216th Street and ending at South 226th Street.
Spectators can expect the return of beloved Waterland traditions, including the famous pirates, along with colorful floats, marching bands, community organizations, youth groups, classic and specialty cars, local businesses, and civic leaders.
Adding a festive touch this year, organizers of Des Moines Oktoberfest will join the parade dressed in traditional dirndls, giving attendees a preview of the community’s upcoming fall celebration.
New This Year: The Waterland Block Party
When the parade ends, the celebration is just getting started. For the first time, the Waterland Festival and Parade will continue with a family-friendly Waterland Block Party immediately following the parade. Attendees are encouraged to grab their parade chairs and head to the area between South 223rd Street and South 225th Street, in front of the Des Moines Theater, where neighbors become friends and the entire community comes together.
The Block Party will continue until approximately 10:00 p.m. and will feature:
- Live DJ entertainment
- Beer garden
- Kids’ activities
- Special performers
- Appearances from favorite parade participants
- Food and opportunities to support local businesses
Local restaurants, including Porto Vino Italian Restaurant, another wonderful sponsor of the parade, will welcome families and visitors throughout the evening.
Organizers encourage everyone to stay after the parade, connect with neighbors, meet new friends, and experience the energy of a community celebration designed for all ages.
Celebrating Community Through Collaboration
The Des Moines Waterland Festival and Parade represents what makes this waterfront community special—volunteers, local businesses, civic organizations, sponsors, and neighbors working together.
From children creating parade floats on Friday to cheering for pirates, marching bands, classic cars, colorful floats, and Oktoberfest participants on Saturday, followed by an evening of music, food, and fellowship at the inaugural Waterland Block Party, the 2026 Des Moines Waterland Festival and Parade promises to be one of the community’s most memorable celebrations yet.
The Waterland Blog encourages readers to mark their calendars, support local businesses, thank the volunteers and sponsors who make these events possible, and celebrate one of Des Moines’ most enduring and beloved traditions.
