Rakhine Water Festival - Des Moines
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Nonprofit Transparency

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Our commitment

The Rakhine Water Festival Committee operates as a community nonprofit initiative focused on cultural preservation, education, and community celebration.

How funds are used

  • Venue and safety costs
  • Cultural program and equipment
  • Community outreach and operations
  • Volunteer support and event logistics

Community-first operations

Any surplus is reinvested into future festival programming and local community impact.

Rakhine Water Festival

Celebrating Thingyan and Rakhine heritage in the heart of Iowa since 2015.

Our History

The Rakhine community of Des Moines began celebrating Thingyan in 2015 with a small neighborhood gathering. Over a decade later, the festival has grown into one of Iowa's most anticipated cultural events.

Read our story ->

Mission & Values

  • Preserve Rakhine culture and tradition
  • Foster joy and renewal across generations
  • Welcome all neighbors and communities
  • Operate transparently as a nonprofit
  • Invest every dollar back into the community

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© 2026 Rakhine Water Festival Committee - Des Moines, Iowa. All rights reserved.

A nonprofit community organization.