A Guide to Western Gateway: World Food & Music Festival Edition
The World Food & Music Festival brings culture, cuisine and cooking demos, among other awesome programming available right here in Downtown Des Moines (DSM). The Festival’s jam-packed schedule, including entertainment from main stage headliner Southern Avenue, dance troupes and children’s activities, will be a place to celebrate food, music and more. But the fun doesn’t stop there!
While you can easily find great food from around the globe at The Festival, you might not be familiar with all the great, diverse food options available in the neighborhood that welcomes the event each year. Western Gateway is located on the westernmost part of Downtown Des Moines (DSM), and there are plenty of places to visit while you’re in the area. Here are just a few we think will round out your weekend amid festivalgoers and even after the event ends.
Not-to-Miss Restaurants + Retail Near Western Gateway
Bars + Restaurants
Retail
You’re not far from the “Cheers from Des Moines” mural located just west of Exile Brewing Co. along 16th St. either, so stop by, say cheese and post a photo in front of it during your visit to The Festival, the Western Gateway neighborhood and some of the best places to visit in Downtown DSM.
Western Gateway in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is home to the World Food & Music Festival, where diverse cuisine, live music, cooking demonstrations and other performances offer a place to experience culture every September.
More Downtown Des Moines (DSM) restaurants are opening all the time. Don’t miss out on bakeries, brunch, breakfast, lunch, dinner, pizza, seafood, bars and breweries in downtown. Here’s the in on where to eat locally in Downtown DSM.
Amelia Klatt
Amelia Klatt is the Director of Events for the Greater Des Moines Partnership. Her background working with nonprofit organizations has led to skills as a relationship builder and events professional. Klatt received her MPA from Drake University in 2019.