Tallgrass: The Des Moines Festival of Ideas 2026

The fourth annual Des Moines Festival of Ideas, featuring leading journalists, philosophers, artists, and normal people.

For the fourth annual Des Moines Festival of Ideas, and in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, this year's theme will be "The Pursuit of Happiness"

In a time of political fracture, dizzying technological development, and increasing social isolation, what does it mean to pursue happiness?

To answer this question we will delve into the meaning of human happiness. What is it we really want? What are the modes of culture, ethics, and common life that make happiness possible? What did this country's founders mean when they said that the pursuit of happiness is an inalienable right of every human being?

Philosophers, historians, journalists, and artists will join us to explore these questions in a two-day celebration of ideas and culture.

FRIDAY EVENING AUGUST 7 THROUGH SATRUDAY AUGUST 8

Featuring

Tyler Austin Harper, The Atlantic Monthly

Susan Laehn, political science, Iowa State University

Scott Samuelson, philosophy, Iowa State University

Brian Billion, Concert Pianist

Valerie Pavilonis, Ideas Editor, The Dispatch

Nazanin Ash, CEO of Welcome.US

Roscoe Jones, Dean of Drake Law School

Judge John Sandy, Iowa Court of Appeals

And much more!