Morning
Soccer
Community soccer matches and friendly team competition.
AthleticThingyan - Des Moines 2026
Rakhine
Water Festival
Celebrate renewal, community, and the joy of Thingyan — a tradition carried from Rakhine to the heart of Iowa.
Event InfoJuly 4th and July 5th10:00 AM - 6:00 PMRiverview Park, 710 Corning Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313
Flyers & Posters
Event Materials
Download or share the Burmese invitation, English invitation, and sports event flyer.
Festival Countdown
Until the Festival
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Our Story
A Tradition Born Far From Home
Since 2015, the Rakhine community of Des Moines has gathered every year to celebrate Thingyan — the Burmese New Year water festival. What began as a small community gathering has grown into one of Iowa's most vibrant cultural celebrations, honoring our heritage and welcoming neighbors of all backgrounds.
The festival is organized by the Rakhine Water Festival Committee, a group of young community members dedicated to keeping this tradition alive for generations to come.
10+
Years of Celebration
Since 2015
Des Moines, Iowa
Community
Open to Everyone
Previous Events
Photos from Past Celebrations
A small gallery for highlights from previous Rakhine Water Festival gatherings.
What to Expect
Festival Schedule
Two days of athletics, water, food, and cultural celebration — all are welcome.
July 4th
Athletic Events
Afternoon
Volleyball
Volleyball games for players and spectators to enjoy.
AthleticAfternoon
Tug of War
A classic team challenge bringing families and friends together.
AthleticJuly 5th
Festival Day
10:00 AM
Opening Ceremony
Traditional prayers and blessings to welcome the New Year with elders leading the ritual.
Cultural11:00 AM
Water Splashing Begins
The main event! Bring your water guns, buckets, and smiles — everyone gets soaked.
Water12:30 PM
Traditional Food Stalls
Enjoy authentic Rakhine dishes prepared by community members — mohinga, samosa, and more.
Food2:00 PM
Live Music and Karaoke
Traditional and contemporary performances on our main stage, plus open karaoke sessions.
Cultural5:00 PM
Closing
Join us to wrap up the day with community celebration.
CulturalQuestions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
The Festival
Thingyan is the traditional Burmese New Year water festival, typically celebrated in April. In Rakhine culture, it marks the end of the old year and the beginning of the new — water is poured and splashed to wash away misfortune and welcome renewal.
Come dressed in clothes you don't mind getting wet. Light, casual, and colorful attire is encouraged. Many attendees wear traditional Rakhine or Myanmar dress for the opening ceremony. Water shoes or sandals are recommended.
Yes — the festival is free and open to everyone. Some food stalls and activities may have a small cost. Donations to the Rakhine Community of Iowa are always welcome and go directly toward making the event possible.
Absolutely. The festival is a family-friendly event with activities for all ages. Children are especially welcome at the water area — just bring extra clothes and sunscreen.
Location & Parking
The festival is held at Riverview Park, 710 Corning Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313.
Parking is available around Riverview Park. We'll share any additional parking and accessibility details closer to the event.
Des Moines Metro operates bus routes throughout the city. Check DART's current trip planner for routes to Riverview Park at 710 Corning Ave.
Get Involved
We welcome volunteers of all experience levels. Fill out the contact form on our Contact page with 'volunteer' in your message and our committee will be in touch with more details.
Sponsorship packages are available for local businesses and organizations of all sizes. Reach out via the Contact page and mention you're interested in sponsoring — we'll send our sponsorship packet.
Yes — the Rakhine Community of Iowa is a nonprofit and all donations go directly toward organizing the festival. Please contact us for donation details.