The Des Moines Symphony presents Water Works Pops Concerts over Labor Day weekend! Through the generous support of Linda and Tom Koehn, this annual event is free to the entire community. Come out and enjoy the blend of music and nature, set against the stunning backdrop of the Des Moines' iconic Water Works Park.
When: Sat, Aug 31 & Sun, Sep 1 at 7:30 PM
Where: Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park
The Lauridsen Amphitheater stage comes alive with two captivating Symphony performances:
The Music of Billy Joel with Broadway star Michael Cavanaugh
Michael Cavanaugh, who played the Piano Man himself in the hit Broadway show Movin’ Out, brings the music of Billy Joel to life alongside your Des Moines Symphony Orchestra! Rock out to all your favorites including “Uptown Girl,” “River of Dreams,” “Movin’ Out,” “My Life,” “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant,” and many more. Bring your picnics and blankets and join the Symphony for this free, family-friendly performance at the Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park!
Dance Away With Me
Enjoy symphonic and pop favorites side-by-side in our Dance Away With Me program featuring vocalists Scarlett Strallen and Ben Davis. From Offenbach's Can Can and Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake to Andrew Lloyd Webber's All I Ask of You and Let it Go from Frozen, there’s something for everyone on the program. Bring your picnics and blankets and join the Symphony for free, family-friendly performances at the Lauridsen Amphitheater at Water Works Park!
What sets the Water Works Pops Concerts apart is the perfect fusion of art and environment. The lush greenery and tranquil ponds of Water Works Park create an atmosphere of serenity. It's an invitation to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in a world where music and nature dance in harmony.
Pack a picnic, bring your loved ones, and relish an unforgettable evening. The Des Moines Symphony's Water Works Pops Concerts are more than just concerts; they're an experience that will leave you refreshed, inspired and with a heart full of beautiful memories. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be a part of an extraordinary celebration of music and nature.
Water Works Pops FAQ
Can I bring a cooler and snacks?
Absolutely! You are welcome to bring a picnic to the concerts. Wine and beer can be consumed on park grounds, but please take any trash with you when you leave. There will also be a wide variety of food trucks onsite selling treats.
What else should I bring to the concert?
Blankets and lawn chairs are welcome on the lawn – no beach umbrellas or tents, please, as they may obstruct others’ view of the concert.
When can I set out my lawn chairs?
You are welcome to lay down blankets and chairs on the lawn anytime throughout the day.
What time should I arrive?
We recommend arriving early to avoid traffic on Fleur Drive and George Flagg Parkway. The parking lots will officially open at 5pm, and vendors will begin selling food at 6pm. The Des Moines Symphony takes the stage at 7:30pm.
Where should I park, and how do I get there?
Follow the signage to enter Water Works Park from Fleur Drive; an attendant will direct you to our free parking lots. Parking lots are self-park with no valet option. You can view a full map of the concert grounds, including parking locations, here.
Is there ADA access?
Yes. Those requiring accessible parking may park to the south of the stage. An ADA drop-off zone will also be available; follow the signage from Fleur Drive. For those who would like additional assistance reaching the concert grounds, a golf cart will shuttle between the ADA lot and the concert grounds to transport up to five people at a time.
Is bike parking available?
Yes! We recommend riding the trails to the concert and using our FREE bicycle valet service. The bike valet opens at 5:00pm.
Can I bring my dog?
Well-behaved pets are welcome at Water Works Park, as long as they remain leashed. Please pick up any pet waste and take it with you when leaving the concert grounds.
