The Great DSM Hot Air Balloon Hunt Returns To Greater Des Moines (DSM) This Saturday
GREATER DES MOINES, IA (May 30, 2024) – Greater Des Moines (DSM) residents can look up in the sky and discover a fun surprise on Saturday, June 1 at the Great DSM Hot Air Balloon Hunt. This event originated in 2021 in Downtown DSM and, new in 2024, is spreading to locations around the region. Glowing hot air balloons will be stationed in different locations throughout the region from 6 – 8 p.m., weather permitting.
Residents are encouraged to discover several hot air balloons glowing throughout the different business and retail districts across the region. The balloons will be conveniently located in close proximity to retailers, restaurants and attractions to encourage people to support local while participating in the balloon hunt, such as by purchasing dinner from local restaurants or checking out attractions such as the local art scene.
Final locations will be announced shortly before the event on Saturday, June 1. Tentative locations include:
- Iowa State Capitol Complex – Des Moines
- Mandelbaum Grass Lot – Court Avenue
- Living History Farms – Urbandale
- Outlets of Des Moines – Altoona
- DMACC Ankeny Campus – Ankeny
- Johnston Town Center – Johnston
- Mayor Tom Becker Park – Cumming
- Central Iowa Insurance Agency – Carlisle
The Great DSM Hot Air Balloon Hunt is weather dependent. Hot air balloons can only be inflated when the wind levels are low to avoid damage. Residents should follow @DSMpartnership and @downtownDSMUSA on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for clues on where to find the balloons and to make sure the balloons will be inflated based on weather and wind conditions. Once spotted, balloon hunters are encouraged to post photos of the glowing balloons on social media and include #DSMUSA. Participants can earn a chance to win a ride in a hot air balloon at the National Balloon Classic, scheduled for July 26 – Aug. 3, 2024, by posting their hot air balloon photos from the event on social media using #DSMUSA. Participants will be limited to one contest entry.
“The Great DSM Hot Air Balloon Hunt provides residents and guests a unique opportunity to add surprise and delight to their Saturday evening. We’re excited to expand this opportunity regionally and shine a light on additional communities,” said Molly Atkins, Events Specialist at the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “The activity will give participants opportunities to explore and support small, local businesses, including restaurants and local stores while enjoying this activation.”
For ideas on local businesses to support, visit the DSM Local web page.
This event is produced by the Greater Des Moines Partnership in partnership with National Balloon Classic. The event is sponsored by Principal Financial Group® and Prairie Meadows.
About the Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 23 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,500 Regional Business Members and more than 400 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.
About Downtown, DSM, Inc.
Downtown DSM, Inc. is part of the Greater Des Moines Partnership and is dedicated to ensuring the continued growth of Downtown Des Moines (DSM). A strong region needs a strong Downtown. Downtown DSM, Inc. leads efforts to drive development, placemaking and events in Downtown DSM. It promotes a strong Downtown through integration of retail, restaurants, businesses, housing, events and placemaking.