The city of Des Moines will come alive with rainbows and celebrations on Saturday, June 21, 2025, as Waterland Pride hosts a full day of free events honoring the local LGBTQ+ community.

This will be the third annual Des Moines Waterland PrideFest, which will feature drag performances, a local vendor market, yard games, and family-friendly art activities.

PrideFest is organized by Des Moines Waterland Pride, which advocates, educates, and fosters LGBTQIA+ awareness, emphasizing acceptance and belonging.

“Our mission includes addressing intersectional issues such as racism, housing and food insecurities, and homophobia and transphobia, and to create intentional, sustainable, and safe environments for the Des Moines LGBTQIA+ community.”

Here’s what’ll be going on:

Rainbow Run 5k at Des Moines Creek Trail
8:45 a.m.

The festivities begin at 8:45 a.m. with the Rainbow Run, a casual 5K run, walk or “sashay” along the Des Moines Creek Trail.

No registration is required for this inclusive event that welcomes participants of all ages and abilities.

“Join Des Moines Waterland Pride and Des Moines Park Run for a free 5k.”

Run, walk, or sashay with the whole family (no experience or registration required). 

Pride Day at the Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Drop by the Waterland Pride booth at the Des Moines Waterfront Farmer’s Market for queer trivia, free swag, and a meet-and-greet with some of our crew.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Waterland Pride will have a booth at the Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market featuring queer trivia, giveaways, and a chance for visitors to meet event organizers.

Waterland PrideFest
Backstage Alley, 1 – 5 p.m.

The highlight of the day is the third annual Waterland PrideFest, taking place from 1 to 5 p.m. behind the newly renovated Des Moines Theater on Marine View Drive.

Scheduled performers include Galactic Molasses, Harvey Princeton, Holli B Sinclair, Melody Volt Paradisco, and local icon Lady Suave herself.

The family-friendly event will feature live drag performances hosted by Lady Suave, with shows scheduled for 2 p.m., 3 p.m., and 4 p.m.:

PrideFest will also feature a local vendor marketplace, art activities, lawn games, and a selfie station. Salvadoran cuisine from Papusa Express and handmade goods from artists such as Full Moon Rising Body Care, Laura Irene Artistry and SubtlyGayCo will be available for purchase. Local organizations including GenPride, the Highline College Q Center, PFLAG, and Metropolist will be present to share resources and support.

“This event continues to grow every year, and it’s incredible to see so many people showing up for queer joy and community,” said organizers in event materials.

After-Party at Creole Soul
5 p.m. – Close

The celebration wraps with an after-party beginning at 5 p.m. at Creole Soul, located at 22341 Marine View Drive South, where food, drinks and fundraising jello shots will support Waterland Pride.

Thanks Sponsors

Des Moines Waterland Pride would like to thank these generous sponsors: 

  • Dr. Bonnie Verhunce at Vitality Chiropractic
  • Vanessa Foley-Delong at Metropolist
  • Marina Mercantile
  • Bet Chaverim
  • South King Media

For more information, visit 

https://www.waterlandpride.org