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World Food & Music Festival Named a Top Five Cultural Festival By USA Today

March 12, 2025

GREATER DES MOINES, IA (March 12, 2025) – The World Food & Music Festival presented by Veridian Credit Union has been recognized as one of the best cultural festivals in the country, earning a spot among the top five finalists in the 2025 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Cultural Festival.  

The World Food & Music Festival earned the No. 5 spot through a public voting process, standing alongside nationally recognized events. 

“Being recognized as one of the nation’s top cultural festivals is an amazing honor. This recognition reflects the rich heritage, vibrant flavors and unique cultural experiences that make the World Food & Music Festival special,” said Amelia Klatt, Director of Events for the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “We are grateful for the support from our community and visitors who celebrate with us every year.” 

Each year, the World Food & Music Festival brings together a variety of international foods, live performances and global experiences in the heart of Downtown Des Moines (DSM) at Western Gateway Park. A signature offering at The Festival is each food vendor offers a $2 taste item offering attendees a cost friendly way to taste around the world.  

This year's Festival will take place Friday, Aug. 22 – Sunday, Aug. 24. 

For more information about the World Food & Music Festival, visit The Festival website or follow along on social media for updates and upcoming announcements. 

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About Downtown DSM, Inc.  
Downtown DSM, Inc. 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 Downtown through integration of retail, restaurants, businesses, housing, events and placemaking. The Downtown Events Group enhances the vibrancy of Downtown DSM through the creation, elevation and activation of arts, culture and humanities events and community placemaking. 

About the Greater Des Moines Partnership 
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves 12 counties in Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa: Adair, Clarke, Dallas, Guthrie, Jasper, Madison, Mahaska, Marion, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek and Warren. Together with more than 400 Investors and an Affiliate Chamber of Commerce network of more than 6,700 Regional Business Members, The Partnership drives economic growth and talent development to advance quality of life in DSM 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