Hoyt Sherman Place Celebrates 250th Anniversary of American Independence

In celebration of the 250th anniversary of American Independence, Hoyt Sherman Place will partner with the 34th Army Band of the Iowa National Guard to present a free, outdoor public performance honoring the nation’s rich musical and civic traditions.
This special event will take place on Sunday, September 13, 2026, on the historic grounds of Hoyt Sherman Place in Des Moines, Iowa, welcoming audiences of all ages for an accessible, community-centered celebration of America’s semiquincentennial.
This project is supported by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts for “Celebrating the Nation’s 250th Birthday with Music from U.S. Military Bands”.
1:00 PM: Festivities Begin
• An interactive activity for kids and families. Visit different stations throughout the Hoyt Sherman Place lawn and building and learn facts about American history.
• Flag display on the Hoyt Sherman Place Theater Stage. The collection includes a 48-star flag, an 1896 hand-stitched 45-star American flag, and a rare 261-star flag with blue and gold stars and a red star border from the collection of Civil War veteran Major S. H. M. Byers.
• Concessions and Food Trucks
3:00 PM: Concert On the EMC Insurance Plaza
• Enjoy a diverse repertoire that include patriotic selections, classical works, popular American music, and historically significant compositions, the performance will reflect the breadth of musical styles that military bands have used for more than two centuries to inspire unity, commemorate service, and strengthen civic pride.