REMINDER: Tickets are still available for the 17th Annual Poverty Bay Blues & Brews Fest, coming to Des Moines Beach Park on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026, and we’ve got some video clips of the amazing bands scheduled.
Presented by the Rotary Club of Des Moines & Normandy Park, this beloved waterfront festival brings a full day of blues, brews, food, and community giving to the beautiful shores of Puget Sound.
The event runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and features four live blues performances, local craft beer, cider, wine, cocktails, food trucks, and the one-of-a-kind setting of Des Moines’ natural waterfront amphitheater.
To complement your blues they will be featuring over 15 local breweries, ciders, wine cocktails and a variety of fine foods.
The 2026 Lineup (w/Videos):
Thanks and R.I.P. to legendary late Rotarian Steve Swank, who booked these great bands (be sure to raise a glass and toast “Saint Steve” at the event):
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
CD Woodbury Band
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Johnny Wheels and the Swamp Donkeys
3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Too Slim and the Taildraggers
5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Highway 99 All Stars
Tickets
- Tickets are $50 for general admission, and $60 at the gate if available.
- Admission includes six tasting tokens.
- Designated Driver tickets will be available at the gate for $25.
Click Here For Tickets
Attendees must be 21 or older. The event is rain or shine, and no pets, outside food, or outside beverages are allowed. Low lawn chairs and picnic blankets are welcome. Paid parking will be available at the marina, with free street parking on 6th and 7th avenues and a free shuttle circulating between the marina and downtown Des Moines.
All Proceeds Benefit Rotary Projects
Even better, 100% of net proceeds support Rotary charitable projects. The festival’s primary beneficiary is Highline Music4Life, which provides musical instruments to students who otherwise might not be able to participate in school music programs. Proceeds also support local efforts including food insecurity programs, winter coats for elementary students, scholarships, youth programs, and services for domestic violence and human trafficking survivors.
More festival details are available from the Rotary Club here.
This is a great way to support local charities!
