WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — Historic live music venue Val Air Ballroom opened its doors Sunday after a year of renovations.
The reopening day brought hundreds of people to the Valley Junction event space for a day full of live music and good company.
"If you know the Val Air and you're from this area, this is like the greatest day ever," attendee Steph Jessen said.
The community staple has been standing since the 1940s and is a place where people make lifelong memories.
"Actually, I laid brick on this place in the very beginning," said attendee Jim Wright said.
The local spot has created lifelong memories for its attendees from a wide variety of events.
"I have so many memories of concerts, proms, birthday parties — just amazing experiences here," Jessen said. "And to have it come back is goosebumps."
The majority of those visiting Val Air Ballroom have been going there their entire life, even becoming a family tradition for some.
John Perez's mom has been frequenting the ballroom for decades.
"Before the interstate was in, she would drive down Highway 6 and come to concerts here, you know, before I was here," Perez said. "You know, the 60s and stuff. So my mom's been coming here a long time also, so a lot of history. A lot of history."
The reopening day was full of live music, complimentary drinks, backstage tours and a world record attempt for most guitar amplifiers simultaneously played together.
"I work in the music industry locally, so it's really cool to see like everyone I've seen at all the venues I've worked at, just kind of in the same space," attendee Blythe Ennis said.
The historic building may have a new space inside, but still creates the same environment to make unforgettable memories.
"The big surprise is I started taking piano lessons ... and I'm performing two songs, and it's her birthday," Jessen said. "Happy birthday!"
There is already a long lineup of artists scheduled to perform at the Val Air Ballroom. You can find the full list at this link.