Burning Boat Festival to light up Des Moines Marina on New Year’s Eve

The City of Des Moines is inviting residents to ring in the New Year at the Burning Boat Festival on Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2025 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Des Moines Marina, according to event information released by the city.

The Rotary Club of Des Moines/Normandy and the City of Des Moines are teaming up to raise funds for City Park and Res Youth Scholarships.

Billed as a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration, the waterfront festival features a symbolic burning boat where attendees are encouraged to write a personal note with their desires, needs or hardships and cast it into the fire – a very cathartic experience and a fun way to end (or start) the year.

There are four ways YOU can get involved:

1. Become a Sponsor: Multiple giving levels available, and we’ll work with you to maximize your visibility. See the sponsorship tiers below and contact Jeff at jtgross938@gmail.com to join as a valued sponsor.
2. Buy a Ticket: $25 for adults, $10 for kids (ages 6–18) – click here.
3. Volunteer: Email Jeff at jtgross938@gmail.com for details.

Event organizers say proceeds will support Des Moines Parks and Recreation youth scholarships.

The evening will include multiple fire pits for warming up, along with a Rotary Bar, hot chocolate, s’mores and other offerings.

The flyer notes that the event is presented in partnership with the Rotary Club of Des Moines and Normandy Park.

Admission is listed at $25 for adults and $10 for youth, with children age 5 and younger admitted free.

The city promotes the festival as “fun for the whole fam.”

Click Here for More Info & Tickets