The 2021 National Speech & Debate Tournament will be held in Des Moines. The event is expected to draw nearly 10,000 students, teachers/coaches, educators and parents. The event is expected to be a $9.2 million boost to the Greater Des Moines economy. This will be the tournament’s first Iowa appearance. The national event hosts competition in 22 different acting, speaking and debate events in individual and team formats. More than $100,000 is awarded to high school competitors each year.