MUST VISIT VENUES

Not long ago, Iowa’s capital city was referred to as ‘Dead’ Moines, largely due in part to the lackluster arts and entertainment scene in Des Moines. But in recent years Iowa has seen the likes of Phoebe Bridgers, Greta Van Fleet, Grouplove, MGMT, and Mac Sabbath, among many other popular artists. Responsible for bringing these big names to Des Moines and the state is First Fleet Concerts. The promotional company books artists across all genres including singers, bands, comedians, etc. First Fleet Concerts books performances at a variety of venues across Iowa, Nebraska, and Illinois, including the Hinterland Music Festival in Saint Charles, Iowa. In the Des Moines Metro, First Fleet Concerts books artists at two venues they own themselves: Wooly’s and Val Air Ballroom only.

Security is present for all events and ID and wristband all patrons.

Nearby East Village street parking offers easy access to Wooly’s, the Capitol Complex Parking Structure about a quarter mile away is free on nights and weekends.

Val Air Ballroom

Samuel Summers, the owner of Wooly’s and First Fleet Concerts, made headlines when he purchased West Des Moines’ Val Air Ballroom in January 2022. Des Moines metro natives probably know Val Air Ballroom as the host of their high school dances; but recently the venue has hosted Jack White, Clutch, and the Midwest Cage Fighting Championships. The over 30,000 square-foot ballroom holds three times the capacity of Wooly’s and sits about a mile north of the Historic Valley Junction. To increase the longevity of the venue, which was originally built in the early 20th century, First Fleet Concerts is closing the space at the end of 2022 with plans to open in early 2024.