NOVEMBER 6 - 7, 2026 · VAL AIR BALLROOM
You're invited to the VIP Showcase
Join us for an exclusive VIP Showcase celebrating the opening of The Invitational Art Fair. Reserved for collectors, patrons, sponsors, and honored guests, this special evening offers a rare opportunity to preview and acquire exceptional new works before they are available to the public.
VIP Showcase guests will enjoy complimentary admission, curated light fare, live music and delightful surprises throughout the evening.
We look forward to welcoming you to this extraordinary first look at The Invitational. RSVP is required.
When:
Friday, November 6, 2026
Where:
Val Air Ballroom
301 Ashworth Rd, West Des Moines, IA 50265
Parking:
Free parking is available in the Val Air Ballroom lot
General Inquiries:
hello@theinvitational.org
A New Kind of Art Fair
A new fall art experience is coming to the historic Val Air Ballroom. This fall, we’re bringing something new to Central Iowa: The Invitational Art Fair, a curated two-day celebration of professional artists, exceptional artwork, and the people who love collecting it.
Central Iowa has no shortage of fall craft shows and maker markets. But there are surprisingly few opportunities during the fall season for professional artists to present and sell their newest work in a setting built specifically around fine art.
The Invitational is designed to change that.
Live Music
Enjoy live music throughout the event featuring an exciting mix of folk, blues, jazz, bluegrass, and Americana. From soulful vocals and rich harmonies to lively fiddle tunes and New Orleans–inspired jazz, these talented musicians bring a vibrant blend of traditional roots and contemporary sounds to the stage.
The Artists
Fifty professional artists, from a range of mediums, will come together to showcase new, original, and event-specific work. Each artist will create an experience that gives collectors and art lovers the opportunity to discover what’s new, meet the artists behind the work, and find something truly special to take home.
Public art Fair
Art, music, and connection. Meet professional artists, discover original artwork for purchase, and enjoy live acoustical music and a cash bar throughout the day.
Tickets are $5 in advance, and $8 at the door
Event is cashless
Tickets are non-refundable
Saturday, November 7 | 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
LIVE MUSIC
Enjoy live music throughout the event featuring an exciting mix of folk, blues, jazz, bluegrass, and Americana. From soulful vocals and rich harmonies to lively fiddle tunes and New Orleans–inspired jazz, these talented musicians bring a vibrant blend of traditional roots and contemporary sounds to the stage.
Our Sponsors
