Tallgrass: The Des Moines Festival of Ideas 2026
Schedule
Fri Aug 07 2026 at 06:00 pm to 09:30 pm
UTC-05:00Location
Sheslow Auditorium/The Shop | Des Moines, IA
About this Event
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.
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
Casey Mock, The Anxious Generation
And much more!
Where is it happening?
Sheslow Auditorium/The Shop, 2507 University Avenue, Des Moines, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00 to USD 49.87






