4. Des Moines Art Festival

The Buzz -- Concerts, strolling clowns, and 150 artists' displays annually fill the riverfront late in June. Artwork is judged and juried, and along with colorful displays, a series of scheduled activities is planned. Musical performers have included Spyro Gyra and the Des Moines Symphony. Nationally recognized as one of the country's top festivals, this event attracts more than 200,000 attendees and continues to grow in popularity.