The 2026 Des Moines Concours d’Elegance events will held September 12th and 13th. Please check our Facebook feed (www.facebook.com/desmoinesconcours) for the most current information.
Donations are accepted year-round – visit our DONATE page. All proceeds from donations benefit Children’s Cancer Connection and Des Moines Concours Automotive Heritage Grant.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12TH – Des Moines Concours Charity Gala
The weekend begins with the highly anticipated Des Moines Concours Charity Gala on Saturday, September 12, at the beautiful Krause Gateway Center in Des Moines.
This elegant evening will feature fine dining, entertainment, exclusive vehicles, cocktails, and special experiences — all while supporting Children’s Cancer Connection and the Des Moines Concours Automotive Heritage Grant.
Additional Gala programming, featured guests, and ticket information will be announced soon at: https://desmoinesconcours.com/gala/
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13TH
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Des Moines Concours d’Elegance at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Des Moines (Grand and Locust between 12th and 16th Streets).
FREE to the public – however, FREE WILL donations may be made and are encouraged to help us cover our costs and proceeds after expenses will benefit Children’s Cancer Connection and the Des Moines Concours Automotive Heritage Grant.
- Exhibit of more than 140 cars
- Midway featuring food, merchandise and service vendors
- Family friendly activities (updated regularly):
- Hobby Haven RC Cars
- Community Choice Credit Union – open area at 1408 Locust Street
- Money Mammals wrapped SmartCar for climbing around in
- Iowa LEGO Users Group
- Free water and soda
- Coloring sheets as well as some games, such as, JENGA, Connect4, etc.
- SEP/Apprenticeship (car, truck, displays)
- Des Moines Soapbox Derby Display
- Area 515 Maker Space
- Iowa Army Reserves showcasing their new JLTV Vehicle
- Miniature Engine Displays
- Car Clubs from Des Moines area showcase cars from members (west of 16th Street on Grand)
2:30 p.m. Star Car Presentations
3 p.m. Grand Awards Presentation: Join us at 13th and Grand for the presentation of Class Winners and Best of Show.
4 p.m. Roar at 4: Listen as cars fire up their engines to leave the show field. Have your camera ready!
FAQS
Q: What is the cost for the Concours?
A: The show is FREE to attend. However, donations to the Concours are welcome and encouraged. Proceeds benefit Children’s Cancer Connection. Concessions from our food and merch vendors are priced by each vendor.
Q: I’m not a “car person”, so what’s in it for me?
A: We show cars to highlight their artistic, design, technological and historical significance. Rather than large groups of similar cars, many of our classes showcase one or two examples of each type of vehicle. We also find many people like to find cars like family members had in the past, have only seen in video games or have had on their Bucket Lists. There will also be a fun photo booth with a Model T, a radio-controlled car race track, and more for the entire family.
Q: Where can I park?
A: There is ample public parking downtown around the showfield, including both public garages and street parking. Be sure to honor “No Parking” signs. The Concours is not responsible for damage or towing fees.
Q: Can I take pictures?
A: Absolutely. We encourage you to find your favorite vehicles and take lots of pictures. Feel free to share them on our Facebook page, as well.
