This past weekend local residents gathered in Beach Park to “Celebrate Des Moines” while enjoying free entertainment and reflecting on the city’s history.

Cool weather and occasional rain kept the crowd small but those that braved the elements found plenty to do, including a magic show for the kids, live music, free ice cream, games and art projects.

The occasion also provided residents with an opportunity to stroll the Heritage Trail in the park and view new displays highlighting the history of the area. Emphasizing the history theme was a fashion show featuring historical beach wear.

Among the crowd were former campers who visited the park when it was the Covenant Beach Bible Camp. They toured the auditorium building currently being renovated in the park.

The event was sponsored by the City of Des Moines Parks, Recreation and Senior Services Department, Des Moines Arts Commission, Des Moines Historical Society, Wesley Homes, 4Culture, and Judson Park.

Photographer Michael Brunk was at the event and shot the following photos. You can click individual thumbnails to view them larger.