Des Moines
Des Moines is the capital of Iowa and the host city listed for the 2026 field meet of the North American Falconers Association. NAFA is the main falconry association of the United States, Canada and Mexico, and its annual meet gathers members from across the continent.
The story of Des Moines
Des Moines is the capital and most populous city of Iowa. Its name comes from the Des Moines River, possibly from a French phrase meaning River of the Monks. The city traces its origins to Fort Des Moines, built in 1843 where the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers meet.
It was incorporated in 1851 under the fort's name, which was shortened to Des Moines in 1857. It is the county seat of Polk County, and the city extends into Warren County. The 2020 census counted 214,133 residents.
As the state capital and the largest city in Iowa, it is a regular site for conventions and gatherings that draw visitors from other states.
Falconry in Des Moines
Des Moines is the location named on the North American Falconers Association's event listing for the 2026 NAFA Field Meet. NAFA was founded in 1961 and has about 2,000 members in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Its annual field meet is held in November or December, in a different place each year, and all members are invited. Members also receive the association's Hawk Chalk publications and annual Journal.
The meet is the main yearly occasion on which the association's members from across North America come together. Specific programme details for the Des Moines meet were not available in the sources consulted, so check NAFA for dates and venue.
List your business on the pages of the events you attend, so buyers and partners find you before the show.
Facts on this page come from the sources below, checked on the date of writing. Check with the organiser before travelling.