The Spoken Word has become a cherished tradition in our celebration and a powerful way to connect as a community. By definition, Spoken Word is an oral poetic performance art that blends the beauty of language with the presence and style of the performer. It carries an ancient oral tradition into the present day, bringing history, culture, and personal experiences to life. Come by for a casual night inspired by the voices of talented storytellers who will share their art.

In past years, Jazzin in the Junction has featured powerful performances that bring Valley Junction’s voices to life through their emotional performances. Notable past participants include Dr. Eric Johnson, Alonda Long, and Cesar Chavez.

This year, the festival begins on Thursday with The Junction Speaks from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The Junction Speaks opens the Multicultural Festival weekend. Since 2013, the event has revealed and preserved the rich multicultural oral histories of the families that created a tight-knit community integrated because of humanity, not desegregation legislation. A rich evening history through storytelling, slideshows, presentations, video and open mic.

This year, the festival begins on Thursday with The Junction Speaks from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The Junction Speaks opens the Multicultural Festival weekend. Since 2013, the event has revealed and preserved the rich multicultural oral histories of the families that created a tight-knit community integrated because of humanity, not desegregation legislation. A rich evening history through storytelling, slideshows, presentations, video and open mic. 

5:30pm to 8:30pm at the TPK Event Center

1208 Grand Ave,

West Des Moines, IA 50265

On Friday, August 29, we celebrate the Spoken Word and Live Jazz. For those of you who have never experienced a Spoken Word event, you should come and see what it’s all about. It’s a casual evening of local poets, music and songs. Those in attendance share stories of ancestors and special historical happenings in Valley Junction. Some are first-hand memories, while others are stories handed down for generations. 6:00pm to 9:00pm

6:00pm to 9:00pm at Tallgrass Theatre Company

2019 Grand Ave. Suite 100

West Des Moines, IA 50265

On Saturday, August 30, from 2:00pm to 10:00pm is the annual Taste of the Junction Multicultural Festival.

2:00pm to 10:00pm at Railroad Park Pavillion

4th & Railroad Place

West Des Moines, IA 50265

LIVE Music, Food & Beverage Tents, Art and Craft Vendors, Kid Zone and more. Fun for the entire family! Bring your lawn chairs and your dancin’ shoes. It’s going down in the Junction!

It’s been a dream come to true to open a physical space for Taste of the Junction that is actually located in Valley Junction. We celebrated the ribbon cutting in November 2023 with the West Des Moines Chamber and the Valley High School Jazz Band.

Your Support Matters

Thank you to the many community members who attended the ribbon cutting. Our new location is especially important as we continue our mission to create a space for the community to come together to share, preserve, and celebrate the ever-changing, culturally rich history of Valley Junction.

Curation & Preservation • Community Building • Cultural Education