(Des Moines, IA) -- Preparations are underway in Western Gateway Park for the Des Moines Art Festival. Colleen Murphy of the Arts Festival says the three-day event begins on Friday and is expected to generate millions for the local economy.
"Hotel stays, we know we have a number of people who come from out of state. Beverages, food vendors (sales) and art purchases at the festival exceed one to two million dollars, " Murphy said.
Tents are being put up now and artists will begin to settle into their spaces on Thursday.
This year's Art Festival features 195 artists from 35 states, food vendors, live music and activities for kids.
Murphy says street closures have already begun in the area but businesses are still available to pedestrians.
12th Street is now closed between Grand Avenue and Locust Street.
Additional street closures include the following:
Effective Now through 6:00 AM Tuesday June 30:
1) 12th St, Grand Ave to Locust St
Effective 6:00 AM Wednesday June 24 – 6:00 AM Monday June 29:
2) Locust St, 16th St to 10th St
3) 15th St, Grand Ave to Walnut St
4) 13th St, Grand Ave to Walnut St
5) 12th St, Locust St to Walnut St
Effective 6:00 AM Thursday June 25 – 6:00 AM Monday June 29:
6) Grand Ave, 10th St to 16th St (with access for the Central Library only)
7) 11th St, High St to Grand Ave
8) 12th St, High St to Grand Ave
9) 14th St, High St to Grand Ave
10) 15th St, Ingersoll Ave to Grand Ave