Here's What's Happening at the 2021 World Food & Music Festival

Many Greater Des Moines (DMS) festivals have resumed in 2021, including the region’s World Food & Music Festival taking place this month from Sept. 17-19. From a reggae headliner formed by guitarists for Bob Marley & The Wailers to satisfying food options like a Raspberry Cheesecake Cookie from A Daily Dose of Sugar or Hawaiian Spam Musubi from Hawaiian Grill, you’ll want to head downtown for the sounds, sweets and spices presented by Festival Food Vendors.

Outdoor Entertainment + Fun in Western Gateway

The Original Wailers will headline the World Food & Music Festival, continuing the legacy of Bob Marley’s music at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 18. Other entertainment acts on the Main Stage include the Dick Danger Band from 8-10 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 18, The Maytags at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday and many others. Talented acts will also grace the Principal Cultural Stage, showcasing diverse groups such as Vera Babich, Soten Taiko, Irish Dancers and more. You can find detailed entertainment information here.

Other exciting activities include culinary demonstrations taking place at the Meredith Culinary Discovery Pavilion, as well as interactive presentations and workshops at the Cultural Activity Pavilion presented by Global Atlantic Financial Group. Programming for the Cultural Activity Pavilion will include everything from Scottish Games to Indian Dance. You can learn more about the festival’s scheduled activities here.

Flavorful Food + Drink Options

A variety of vendors will offer flavors from around the world at this year’s festival. Whether you’re looking for Cevapi or Sirnica (vegetarian) from Bosnia, Gyros from Greece or Bubble Tea Smoothies from Laos, the 2021 World Food & Music Festival will immerse you in the tastes and smells offered across the globe right here in Downtown DSM. Attendees can also enjoy beers made in Iowa — Exile Ruthie (DSM) or Big Grove Easy Eddy (Iowa City) — and around the world — Carlsberg (Denmark) or Singha (Thailand). Learn more about all the food and drink options to prepare for your visit.

The World Food & Music Festival will take place rain or shine. We hope to see you there to celebrate all the culture we have right here in DSM! Don’t miss out on the awesome musical acts, delicious food items and inclusive activities in 2021.

Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is a growing, vibrant community that offers the energy, sophistication, housing and attractions of a burgeoning city with a brilliant future. It’s also easy to visit with plentiful and affordable street and ramp parking options.

The Greater Des Moines Partnership calendar of events is a one-stop resource for activities taking place throughout the region. Find networking information for Greater Des Moines (DSM) businesses or events specific to Downtown DSM.