DES MOINES, Iowa (August 21, 2025) – Greater Des Moines is honored to host the Central States Shrine Association Ceremonial Session (CSSA 2025) from Tuesday, August 26 through Sunday, August 31, 2025 at the Sheraton West Des Moines. The event will welcome approximately 600 Shriners from across the region, including six distinguished Imperial Officers representing the International Shrine Center, reaffirming Des Moines’ reputation as a premier gathering destination. 

 

CSSA is a unique fraternal event featuring both private sessions and several exciting public activities that showcase the spirit and community engagement of the Shriners.  

“From roaring engines to soaring drones, and colorful clowns to our grand parade – join us August 27 – 30, as the Central States Shrine Association welcomes all Nobles, ladies, and guests for four days of fellowship, fun, and unforgettable memories,” said CSSA President Daniel Willson, Past Potentate and JR Legg Potentate. 

 

Public events include: 

  • Thursday, August 28
    • Parking Lot Party: Guests and the public are invited to the parking lot party featuring live music, food, and drinks from 5 – 10 p.m. in the Za Ga Zig Shrine parking lot in Altoona. Tickets are available for $20 per person. 

  • Friday, August 29

    • Drone Show: From 8 – 10 a.m., there will be a drone show competition inside the Za Gag Zig Shrine.

    • Motor Corps Competition: Competitions will kick off at 9 a.m. at Prairie Meadows, offering thrilling displays of precision and performance. Competition will last until about 1 p.m.

    • Keystone Kops Competition: In the parking lot of the Za Gag Zig Shrine, the public can see the Keystone Kops Competition beginning at 9 a.m. This is a fun parade unit event with skits as cops and robbers.

    • Clown Competition: Beginning at 10 a.m., there will be a CSSCA Competition (Clowns). Clowns will be judged on their makeup application, costume, and poses, as well as a balloon contest.  

  • Saturday, August 30

    • Parade: The week’s festivities culminate with a public parade from 9 – 11 a.m. The parade will be around Valley Stadium going down Mills Civic Parkway, Fuller Road, and 35th Street.

 

“We are excited to welcome Shrine members from across the Central States to Greater Des Moines,” said Trina Flack, President and CEO of Catch Des Moines. “Not only do they make a real difference through their work, but hosting the Ceremonial Regional Session also brings great energy and a boost to our local economy.” 

 

About Catch Des Moines
The Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Des Moines Area Sports Commission, collectively known as Catch Des Moines, is the official destination marketing organization promoting and representing Greater Des Moines to leisure travelers and meeting/sports planners. Our focus is to increase visitors to the metro and elevate the visitor experience to drive economic success and enhance the quality of life in the 14 local Greater Des Moines communities we represent. For more information, visit catchdesmoines.com.