Wild Wonders: A Sneak Peek at ChildServe’s 15th Annual Bubble Ball

_{Header image provided by LB Creative Studio.}

ChildServe’s Bubble Ball returns to the Iowa Events Center on Saturday, April 12, 2025, with a new and exciting theme — Wild Wonders: Adventure into the Animal Kingdom. Talented volunteer designers will transport guests to the heart of the jungle, the vast savannah, the deep blue sea and beyond with their breathtaking BUBBLE WRAP® creations.

By attending this one-of-a-kind event, guests will help children with special healthcare needs across Iowa receive the care, equipment and specialized programming they need to live a great life. Join presenting sponsor Banker’s Trust in making a difference by registering as a sponsor or purchasing a ticket.

Photo Credit: Paige Peterson; Designer: Sarah Dornink

New This Year at the 15th Annual Bubble Ball

Returning Bubble Ball guests know to expect awe-inspiring runway looks, captivating performances and fun surprises. Here are a few new experiences you can expect on April 12:

• After years of high demand, guests will have the opportunity to pre-order BUBBLE WRAP® accessories like bow ties and flower crowns to pick up at the event.
• Our entertainment for the evening includes multiple surprise guests and groups who are new to Bubble Ball as well as beloved favorites.
• Bubble Ball 2025 will be more immersive and artistic than ever before with the support of more than 100 designers.

Crowd Favorites | Special Appearances from ChildServe Children

At Bubble Ball, guests are immersed in ChildServe’s mission through watching incredible videos, hearing heartfelt stories from families and cheering on children who attend ChildServe while they take the stage. This includes kids like Jude, who will once again perform during the runway show, and many others. Check out Jude's story and past performances here.

Funds raised at Bubble Ball 2025 will benefit children across Iowa who receive care through ChildServe’s four life-changing program areas: Autism & Behavioral Health, Complex Medical Care, Pediatric Rehabilitation and Community Services.

Photo Credit: Paige Peterson; Designer: Vicki Nail

Sarah Dornink | Bubble Ball Runway Director

Bubble Ball wouldn’t be what it is today without the support of many passionate creatives, including the extraordinary Bubble Ball Runway Director, Sarah Dornink. Sarah has an extensive background in fashion, including completing her education at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and opening her own storefront in Des Moines named Dornink Couture.

Sarah shares that one of her favorite parts of the event is the excitement of watching someone experience Bubble Ball who has never seen it before. Read more about Sarah Dornink’s experience with Bubble Ball here.

Photo Credit: Paige Peterson; Designer: Julie Stork

Record Breaking Attendance for the 15th Anniversary

In 2011, ChildServe’s first-ever Bubble Ball event was held at Embassy Club West with a single borrowed microphone and speaker. Today the event has grown to encompass nearly 1,500 guests and an incredible production crew that brings the event to life with the latest performance technology and entertainment. We’re on track for record-breaking attendance again this year, and we hope you can join us. By attending this one-of-a-kind event and donating, you’ll help children with special healthcare needs across Iowa receive the care, equipment and specialized programming they need to live a great life.

 

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, including Chamber luncheons, roundtables and ribbon cuttings. You can also find live music happening each week thanks to the “Live Music This Week in DSM” blog series.