Brian Congdon

Brian Congdon is a singer/guitar player Des Moines, and has been playing professionally since 1999. He has performed regularly at pubs, breweries, weddings, farmers markets, Adventureland Amusement Park and many more in the Des Moines metro and outer communities. Visit https://briancongdon.com/ to learn more.

The Dan Medeiros Project

The Dan Medeiros Project is the creative endeavor of singer-songwriter Dan Medeiros, known for his distinctive blend of alternative and rock music. Born and raised in the suburbs of Toronto, Canada, Dan was immersed in a musical environment from a young age, with a family rich in musical talent. By the age of nine, he was enrolled in the Ontario Conservatory of Music, where he earned various awards and scholarships. Throughout his early years, Dan participated in multiple bands, most notably “Waiting For Grace,” which released the acclaimed debut album “The Verga Effect” in 2008.

Sara Routh

This Iowa-born singer/songwriter will gift you an energetic and heart-full performance every time. Sara embraces musical growth yet stays true to her jazz & folk roots. She is constantly reinventing herself in order to bring excitement to her audiences in both live and recorded settings.

Shrek (2001)

Shrek is going to be played at 5PM on the mainstage at the event!

A full selection of alcoholic beverages will be available on hand for purchase for those 21 and older. Please bring a valid form of ID. Do not drink and drive. Non-alcoholic beverages will also be available for purchase. 

All patrons, volunteers, and employees are expected to comply fully with all laws (including laws prohibiting the operation of motor vehicles while under the influence of alcohol), and to take safety precautions including arranging for a designated, sober driver. By attending Racoon River Palooza, I agree that any alcoholic beverages I consume are my own choice and responsibility. I agree to drink responsibility. I acknowledge that I alone am responsible for all of my actions resulting from consuming alcohol and the West Des Moines Chamber and City of West Des Moines is in no way responsible.

Get ready to set sail into summer fun with our cardboard boat races on June 7!  It’s more than just a race; it’s a creative carnival on water! Gather your friends, family, or team and channel your inner shipwright—crafting boats from everyday cardboard found at your local grocery, appliance, furniture, hardware, or big ‘box’ stores. Embrace the whimsy with wild themes and zany costumes. Let’s see who can dazzle us with their daring designs. Come on, West Des Moines, let’s make a splash and craft some memories!

Supported by our First Mate Sponsor:

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Awards include:

FASTEST BOAT: First boat to cross the finish line – if we have several entries, we will have several races (heats).

MOST CREATIVE: Awarded by judges based on creativity, showmanship, and team spirit – costumes & props are encouraged!

BEST CORPORATE BOAT: Show your company spirit and let’s see who shines the best!

WEST DES MOINES SPIRIT AWARD: What is the best way to show off how much you love WDM?

TEAM SPIRIT AWARD: What is the team you like best? Maybe it’s the Cubs, Valley Tigers, or your alma matter?

THE TITANIC AWARD: Who’s boat is the most spectacular at sinking!

2025 Boat Race Judges :

• Katherine Harrington – President & CEO, West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce
• Russ Trimble – Mayor, City of West Des Moines
• Renee Hardman – President & CEO, Lutheran Services in Iowa
• Doug Loots – City Council Member, City of West Des Moines
• Chris Nelson – Building Team Leader, Shive-Hattery
• Britton Klomstad – Advisor, SVN | CREATE
• Allison Tracy – Front Desk Associate, Superstorm Roofing & Siding

Photo from the 2021 Raccoon River Rally where the judges enjoyed a photo opportunity and presented a $4,200 check that helps to support the Athene Pedestrian Bridge at Raccoon River Park

Stilwell Junior High students built and raced in the 2021 Raccoon River Rally cardboard boat race. Check out the creativity and fun students and staff experienced by participating in this community event by viewing the video below.

We’re excited to feature several local Food Trucks at this year’s Raccoon River Palooza:

Join the fun with this year’s Family Fun Zone presented by Prevent Child Abuse Iowa.

This year’s activities include:

• Inflatables
• Face Painting
• A Balloon Artist
• Mascots
  • Cy the Cardinal
  • More Coming Soon!
• Touch A Truck

We are excited to showcase some of the coolest companies and organizations at the Raccoon River Palooza. Business Expo Participants:

• BIG Roofing
• Bloom Chiropractic
• Carapella & Co. Customs
• CPI Telecommunications Inc
• Cumulus Media
• Des Moines Buccaneers
• Dupaco Community Credit Union
• EarthWise Pet
• Empigo Academy
• FE Studios
• Furry Friends Refuge
• Glen Meadows Retirement Community
• Google Fiber
• Holt Plumbing & Heating
• Huntington Learning Center – WDM
• Hy-Vee Exemplar Care
• Jani – King
• LIVIT Staffing
• Mad City Windows & Bath
• Microsoft
• Prairie Path Insurance
• Prevent Child Abuse Iowa
• Quantum Fiber
• Raccoon River Kennels
• Renewal by Andersen
• Schlievert Plumbing
• Sensiil Studios
• Spare Time Entertainment
• Superstorm Roofing and Siding
• That 1 Painter
• T-Mobile
• Truth Family Chiropractic
• West Des Moines Soccer Club
• YJI Tech Connect Program

Become an Exhibitor! Click here to register today.

Support the Raccoon River Palooza as a volunteer!

Visit this link to learn more and sign up.

Email info@wdmchamber.org for any questions.

• 8:00 AM
  • BUSINESS EXPO

• 9:00 AM
  • FAMILY FUN ZONE
  • PRESENTED BY PREVENT CHILD ABUSE IOWA
  • TOUCH-A-TRUCK
  • FREE BOAT RENTALS
  • FOOD TRUCKS (BREAKFAST & COFFEE)
  • THE DAN MEDEIROS PROJECT
    • PERFORMING ON THE MICROSOFT STAGE

• 10:00 AM
  • BEVERAGE TENT
  • MASCOTS

• 11:00 AM
  • FOOD TRUCKS (LUNCH & DINNER)
  • SARA ROUTH
    • PERFORMING ON THE MICROSOFT STAGE

• 1:00 PM
  • CARDBOARD BOAT RACES

• 3:00 PM
  • BRIAN CONGDON
    • PERFORMING ON THE MICROSOFT STAGE

• 5:00 PM
  • MOVIE – SHREK
    • PRESENTED ON THE MICROSOFT STAGE

Celebrate the 5th Annual Raccoon River Palooza in style with exclusive event merchandise! Whether you’re racing a cardboard boat, jamming to live music, or soaking up the summer vibes at Raccoon River Park, our 2025 gear is the perfect way to show your Palooza pride.

🌊 Limited Edition Apparel
Get your hands on custom-designed t-shirts featuring this year’s vibrant Palooza artwork—only available while supplies last!

🎈 Family-Friendly & Festival-Ready
From adult sizes to kid-friendly options, our merch is made for the whole crew. Comfort, style, and community spirit—all in one look.

🛶 Exclusive Designs Inspired by the River & Community
Each piece celebrates the essence of West Des Moines and our connection to the water, music, and fun.

🛍️ Shop Now – Only Available for a Limited Time!
Gear up before June 7th or grab yours at the event.

Baby Blue and Silver options will only be available for pre-order.

Natural will be the only option if purchased at the event!

Visit this link to purchase yours today!