Inaugural Summer Gala Planned at the Hall of Laureates

The Summer Gala at the Hall of Laureates is a brand-new event that will bring elegance, connection and summer celebration to Downtown Des Moines (DSM). From 7 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, 2025, enjoy complimentary appetizers, lively entertainment and plenty of time on the dance floor as this new tradition opens the doors to one of the region’s most iconic and historic venues. A VIP experience beginning at 6 p.m. offers early access, specialty drinks and intimate entertainment in a relaxed, upscale setting. 

About the Summer Gala at the Hall of Laureates

This is a Gala, so while formalwear is welcome and a great excuse to show off your best dress clothes, it’s absolutely not required—come as fancy (or as comfortable) as you like! Dance the night away in style, and if you attend the VIP Hour, you’ll have access to a comedy show and musical entertainment by Donald Gee, complimentary appetizers and Iowa-brewed beer from Reclaimed Rails in Bondurant and more.

Purchase an event ticket at halloflaureatesevents.org/gala for $65 (single) or $100 (couple). VIP tickets are $125 (single) or $200 (couple).

Proceeds from every ticket sold will go towards the World Food Prize Foundation's mission of increasing the quality, quantity and availability of food for all. 

Support Local Events in Downtown DSM

As we launch this new tradition, we’re relying on the Greater Des Moines (DSM) community to help make it a success. With recent cuts to federal and state funding, support from local partners is more important than ever. You can help lift up local organizations and events, including the first-ever Summer Gala at the Hall of Laureates. In fact, make a staycation of it and visit other Downtown DSM attractions that weekend. The Downtown Farmers’ Market will be from 7 a.m. until Noon on Saturday in Historic Court District, so you can shop local before heading back to you hotel room to get ready for the main event. You can purchase a ticket for a guided or self-guided tour of Salisbury House & Gardens when available that weekend. Or the night before, head to the nearby Des Moines Art Center for an exhibition opening for “Iowa Artists 2025: Ben Millett.” There’s just so much to do in and around Downtown DSM, and we don’t want you to miss out!

There are so many fun events specific to Downtown DSM. Attend annual events like the Downtown Des Moines Farmers’ Market, World Food & Music Festival and Holiday Promenade or find live music happening each week through the "Live Music This Week in DSM” blog series.