Vendor Applications Now Open for 2026 Partnership Signature Community Events
GREATER DES MOINES, IA (Jan. 12, 2026) – The Greater Des Moines Partnership has opened vendor applications for three of the region’s most anticipated community events: the Downtown Farmers’ Market presented by UnityPoint Health, the World Food & Music Festival presented by Veridian Credit Union and Out to Lunch.
Together, these events draw hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors to Downtown Des Moines each year and provide meaningful opportunities for local businesses, entrepreneurs, nonprofits and artists to connect with the community.
“These events are about more than great food and entertainment, they’re platforms for small businesses and creators to grow, test new ideas and build lasting relationships with customers,” said Amelia Klatt, Director of Events at the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “We’re excited to welcome both returning and new vendors and continue creating vibrant experiences that showcase the best of Greater Des Moines.”
The Downtown Farmers’ Market, presented by UnityPoint Health, will take place Saturdays from May 2 through Oct. 31. Vendor applications are open to producers and makers offering fresh produce, meat, cheese, eggs, baked goods, plants, flowers and artisan packaged foods, as well as handmade art, ready-to-eat prepared food, entertainment and Saturday Salutes participants.
The World Food & Music Festival, presented by Veridian Credit Union, will be held Friday, Aug. 28 through Sunday, Aug. 30. Applications are available for food vendors, food trucks, merchants and nonprofit organizations interested in participating in one of the region’s most diverse cultural celebrations.
Out to Lunch will return Wednesdays from May 13 through June 24, featuring rotating food vendors and food trucks that bring lunch-time energy and activity to Downtown Des Moines. Vendor applications for all three events will close at 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 13. Additional details, eligibility requirements and application materials are available on The Partnership's website.
Questions regarding vendor eligibility or event details may be directed to the following contacts:
Downtown Farmers' Market: Elizabeth Weyers
World Food & Music Festival: Amelia Klatt
Out to Lunch: Molly Atkins
About the Downtown Farmers’ Market
The Downtown Farmers’ Market is held every Saturday morning May – October in the Historic Court District in Downtown Des Moines. The Market also produces the Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market in November. Find more information at desmoinesfarmersmarket.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/DowntownFarmersMarket and on X and Instagram at @dtfarmersmarket.
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 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. Learn more at downtowndsmusa.com.
About the Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the largest regional business, economic development and talent development organization in Iowa and the second-largest regional chamber of commerce in the country, serving 12 counties in Greater Des Moines: 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 7,200 Regional Business Members, The Partnership helps businesses grow and advances quality of life in Greater Des Moines with one voice, one mission and as one region, contributing to a vibrant regional economy. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.