Thanks to a $29.8 million restoration project and the combined efforts of Gensler Architecture, RDG Planning & Design, and Hoerr Schaudt Landscape Architecture, this Beaux Arts building, was restored as a spectacular monument standing for food security and the efforts of pioneers like Dr. Norman Borlaug, an agronomist, Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and founder of the World Food Prize. And, to the delight of Des Moines’ music lovers, the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates hosts the popular Candlelight concert series.
So if you plan on rediscovering your favorite music at an intimate performance or want to learn more about agricultural achievements and more, make your way to the Hall of Laureates. Located at 100 Locust St, the venue is only a 3-minute walk from the Des Moines Civic Center. The nearest parking facilities are 3rd and Court and 4th and Grand.
Did you know that the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates…
1. Celebrates Dr. Norman Borlaug
Who was Dr. Norman Borlaug? The “man that has saved more lives than any other person who has ever lived.” Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970, Dr. Borlaug grew up in Cresco, Iowa. After earning a BS in Forestry at the University of Minnesota, he worked for the United States Forest Service. He later studied plant pathology, receiving his Ph.D. in 1942, and his future endeavors heavily involved researching wheat varieties and agricultural practices.
Dr. Borlaug discovered new wheat varieties that not only offered increased disease resistance but could also adapt to a wide range of growing conditions. It was thanks to his role in the “Green Revolution” that Dr. Borlaug received the Nobel Prize.
2. Is a museum
The Hall of Laureates is also a museum. The Mural Room is essentially an art gallery that tells the story of Des Moines’ social history. Educational exhibits such as The History of Agriculture Timeline and The Greatest Global Challenge highlight how the fight against hunger is being fought worldwide. Information about water, health, technology, animals, and more leads to questions like, “How will we feed nearly 9 billion people by the year 2050?”
3. Has a garden
Beautifully landscaped, the garden at the Hall of Laureates is open to the public. Visitors can admire a statue of Dr. Borlaug made by John Collier, and a statue of John Ruan Sr., former CEO of The Ruan Companies, sculpted by Chas Fagan. Fagan is also known for his statues that stand in the U.S. Capitol and the U.S. Embassy (London).
Candlelight concerts at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates
The Candlelight series has brought thousands of concerts to over 100 major cities worldwide, from New York to Dubai. And it’s also shining its mesmerizing light on the Hall of Laureates in Des Moines. These captivating performances feature skilled musicians paying tribute to artists like Taylor Swift and concerts inspired by timeless composers such as Vivaldi. Don’t miss out on the chance to discover a remarkable venue and rediscover iconic music while sitting surrounded by thousands of candles.
What else can you do at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates?
There are plenty of things to do at the Hall of Laureates. Go on a free tour of the building on which you’ll get to see the Mural Room, Borlaug Ballroom, Iowa Gallery, and more. Join the Laureate Society and spread Dr. Borlaug’s legacy. As well as being the perfect plan for a school tour, the Hall of Laureates hosts all kinds of events including conferences, weddings, and dinners.
Known to take place at one-of-a-kind venues, the case of Candlelight concerts in Des Moines is no different. Where better to enjoy an awe-inspiring event than inside an old public library? The winning combination of flickering candles and striking architecture creates an enchanting atmosphere. What’s more, with two performances scheduled for each concert date, you can choose a time that suits you.