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Family & Kids Zone

PrideFest Family & Kids Zone, June 9 - 11, 2023 in the historic east village

What is it?

Having a family and kids zone at PrideFest is crucial because it fosters inclusivity and creates a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ families to celebrate together. It recognizes that queer individuals can be parents or caregivers, and it provides an opportunity for children to learn about diversity, acceptance, and love from an early age. Additionally, the family and kids zone offers activities and entertainment suitable for all ages, ensuring that PrideFest is an enjoyable and enriching experience for everyone in the community.

Where is it?

Grassy area across from the Staybridge Suites on East Locust. We will have signs up around the area to help you locate the zone.

Schedule of Events – Saturday, June 10, 2023

  • 9:30 – 10 AM Little Rainbow Kids Run
    • Check-in begins at 9 AM
    • The race will be hosted between the Community and Main Stages
  • *** 10 AM – Break in programming for the Pet Parade presented by F&G, Pet Zone / Community Stage***
  • 11 AM – 12 PM Zoo To You Class with live animals – Blank Park Zoo
  • 11 – 5 PM Crash the mascot will be on site with an inflatable hockey goal – Iowa Wild
  • 12 – 2 PM Puppy pen and adoptable pets – Animal Rescue League of Iowa
  • 12 – 5 PM Sand art workshop – ARAG Legal Insurance
  • 12 – 5 PM Firetruck on display and tours – Des Moines Fire Department
  • 12 – 5 PM Biofuels Interactive Trailer – Iowa Corn Growers Association
    • Activity books and water bottle giveaway
  • 12 – 5 PM Various activities – Goldfish Swim School
    • Membership giveaways
  • 12 – 5 PM Robot driving course – Johnson Robotics Association
    • Interactive driving robotic experience
  • 12 – 6 PM Inflatable Hockey Goal – Iowa Wild
  • 12 – 6 PM Mascot Alpha and Basketball Shooting Game – Iowa Wolves
  • 12 – 6 PM Mascot Cubbie – Iowa Cubs
  • 12 – 6 PM Des Moines Buccaneers
  • 1 – 3 PM Cubbie the mascot will be on site for photos and giveaways – Iowa Cubs
  • 1- 3 PM Alpha the mascot will be on site for photos and giveaways – Iowa Wolves
  • 1 – 4 PM Balloon animals and free creations – Professor Von Air
  • 1 – 4 PM Various arts and coloring activities – Des Moines Art Club
  • 2 – 3 PM Cupcake decorating class – Molly’s Cupcakes
    • Limited to the first 100 kids
  • 2 – 4 PM Urban garden workshop – Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation
    • Plant a seed and spin the agriculture prize wheel!
  • 3 – 4 PM Star Party – Science Center of Iowa