RACCOON RIVER RALLY REBRANDED AS RACCOON RIVER PALOOZA IN COLLABORATION WITH THE CITY OF WEST DES MOINES

WEST DES MOINES, IA (March 26, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced a change to one of its signature events. Beginning in 2024, the Raccoon River Rally will be rebranded as Raccoon River Palooza. This change reflects a new collaboration with the City of West Des Moines' "Park Palooza" event. Raccoon River Palooza aims to merge elements from both events, providing attendees with an experience celebrating outdoor recreation, culture, and community engagement.

The decision to rebrand Raccoon River Rally as Raccoon River Palooza is a commitment to innovation and inclusivity. By aligning with both events, Raccoon River Palooza will attract a broader audience and provide greater opportunities for participation and enjoyment.

“We are thrilled to unveil the new name and concept for our annual event," said Katherine Harrington, President and CEO of the WDM Chamber. "Raccoon River Palooza represents a fresh approach that honors our traditions while embracing new possibilities. We look forward to collaborating with the City of West Des Moines and delivering an unforgettable experience for our community.”

Raccoon River Palooza promotes the city's ongoing growth and community support through entertainment and tradition. The event has been made possible with the support of its presenting sponsor, Superstorm Restoration. In 2022, the WDM Chamber announced a three-year partnership for the West Des Moines annual festival.

“With over 25 years of experience in residential construction and roofing across Central Iowa, Superstorm Restoration is more than just a roofing company to us... we're your neighbor, your friend, and a partner in building a stronger, more connected Central Iowa. That's why we proudly stand alongside the West Des Moines Chamber in supporting the Raccoon River Palooza this June,” said Chandler Steffy, President and Owner of Superstorm Restoration. “It is a celebration of the spirit that defines West Des Moines and Central Iowa as a whole. In the world we live in today, we understand the importance of coming together to celebrate our shared values and the beauty of outdoor recreation.”

Raccoon River Palooza will continue to feature an array of activities and entertainment, including live music performances, cuisine from local food vendors, interactive games for all ages, outdoor activities such as the cardboard boat races, and local businesses.

“We’re excited to continue the tradition of hosting a family-friendly event in early June in collaboration with the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce,” said Ryan Penning, Parks and Recreation Director. “By combining two staple events and creating one large event shows how great the West Des Moines community works together. With Raccoon River Park being a key location in our park system, it’s the perfect place to kick off the summer season.”

Save the date for Raccoon River Palooza, which will take place on Saturday, June 8 at Raccoon River Park (2500 Grand Avenue) in West Des Moines, Iowa from 8 AM to 8 PM. There is no fee to attend. For more information and updates on Raccoon River Palooza, please visit https://wdmchamber.org/raccoon-river-palooza/.

For those interested in becoming a vendor or sponsor at the event, please email info@wdmchamber.org for more information.
 
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About the WDM Chamber of Commerce
The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, established in 1924, is a dynamic organization dedicated to championing all things West Des Moines. With a focus on strengthening local businesses, providing personalized resources, and attracting a top-tier workforce, the Chamber aims to position WDM as the best suburban city in America. Celebrating a century of excellence, the Chamber boasts a diverse community of over 800 members, offering something for everyone. Explore the possibilities, learn more about the chamber, and discover how you can get involved in shaping the future of West Des Moines at wdmchamber.org.

About the City of West Des Moines
West Des Moines is a rapidly developing community located in Polk, Dallas, Madison, and Warren counties. With a population of 70,741, West Des Moines is the seventh largest city in Iowa. The City offers excellent employment opportunities; a diversity of housing; quality school districts; and a variety of entertainment options, such as dining, shopping, recreation, parks, trails, and cultural activities. For more, visit www.wdm.iowa.gov