Des Moines knows how to put on a quality festival. Look no further than the successful Des Moines Arts Festival, 80/35 Music Festival and the Iowa State Fair, among others. Last year, Des Moines was recognized for its achievement by earning the World Festival & Event City Award, given by the International Festivals and Events Association.

The ninth annual Italian American Heritage Festival of Iowa, Viva L’ Italia, will take place on July 27 (10 a.m. to midnight) and July 28 (11 a.m. to midnight) at the Western Gateway Park in downtown Des Moines, located between 12th and 13th Streets and Locust and Grand Avenues.