Lauridsen Amphitheater
The Lauridsen Amphitheater and Killinger Family Stage at Water Works Park are unique outdoor venues. The amphitheater’s two-way design allows for optional event configurations based on the size of the audience.
Lauridsen Amphitheater
The Lauridsen Amphitheater is the centerpiece of the Water Works Park revitalization project. It offers a unique space for concerts, festivals, cultural events, and community gatherings—all framed by scenic views and wide-open green space.
The Great Lawn’s size and design allow for events with 2,000 to 25,000 attendees. It offers ADA-compliant walkways, nearby parking, and inclusive viewing areas.
The modern, covered performance stage has lighting and sound infrastructure to accommodate various acts. Whether a live symphony under the stars or a casual local band with food trucks and beer gardens, the Lauridsen Amphitheater creates a welcoming, community-first vibe that mixes the arts with the outdoors.
Thank you to the Des Moines Media Group for their ongoing support and sponsorship of the Des Moines Water Works Park Foundation and related events!
Killinger Family Stage
The Killinger Family Stage is the south-facing portion of the Lauridsen Amphitheater. It engages the Hubbell Celebration Lawn, offering an intimate setting for crowds of fewer than 2,000.
The stage honors the Killinger family’s musical legacy in the Des Moines area. In 2019, a dedication concert featuring the Killinger Big Band celebrated the family’s four generations of contributions to local music.
Amphitheater photos by Janet Eckles.