Discovering Iowa’s Vibrant Culture: The Can’t-Miss Art, Film, And Music Festivals!
Immerse yourself in Iowa’s thriving arts scene. Explore the state’s amazing festivals celebrating creativity, cinema, and melodic delights! 🎨🎬🎵 #IowaFestivals #ArtFilmMusicAdventures #Iowa
Des Moines, Iowa – Often overlooked as a flyover state, Iowa is a heartland treasure when it comes to its vibrant arts and culture scene. From the bustling streets of Des Moines to the quaint charm of small towns, Iowa offers a plethora of art, film, and music festivals that showcase the state’s creative spirit. These festivals provide a unique opportunity for visitors and locals alike to immerse themselves in a world of artistic expression, cinematic wonders, and musical enchantment.
Iowa Adventures at Art, Film and Music Festivals
Art and music festivals are places where creativity, culture, and community converge. Iowa offers a colorful tapestry of such festivals throughout the year. This blog post presents unique adventures, each providing an opportunity to enjoy the state’s vibrant art and music scenes…
1. Celebrate Jazz at the Iowa City Jazz Festival
Join the Iowa City Jazz Festival, a three-day celebration featuring performances by acclaimed musicians, food vendors, a fun fair, and fireworks.
2. Explore Art at the Des Moines Arts Festival
Discover the Des Moines Arts Festival, where more than 180 artists exhibit their work. The event also includes live music, performing arts, and interactive activities. The fun takes place every June in Western Gateway Park.
3. Join the Party at 80/35 Music Festival
Experience the 80/35 Music Festival in Des Moines, showcasing a mix of national, regional, and local bands across various genres. The names is a creative tip of the hat to the state’s two main interstates: I-80 (which runs east-west) and I-35 (which runs north-south).
4. Discover Talent at the Mission Creek Festival
Enjoy literature, music, and more at the Mission Creek Festival in Iowa City. This six-day event provides a platform for national and local artists and is presented by the Englert Theatre (221 E Washington St, Iowa City, IA 52240).
5. Say “All Aboard” to the Hobo Life
A hobo was a term used to refer to a transient or migratory worker, typically in the United States, who traveled from place to place in search of employment or adventure. Hobos were often associated with the Great Depression era and would often ride freight trains, known as “riding the rails,” to move from one location to another. They lived a nomadic lifestyle, relying on odd jobs or temporary work to sustain themselves.
The National Hobo Convention in Britt, Iowa, is a one-of-a-kind event that celebrates the colorful history and culture of American hobos. Every year, this gathering attracts hobos and enthusiasts from all over the country, featuring parades, live music, storytelling, and the election of the “Hobo King and Queen,” creating a vibrant and fascinating experience in Britt, Iowa.
6. Celebrating African American Culture and Creativity
Experience the vibrant celebration of African American culture and creativity by attending the I’ll Make Me a World in Iowa Festival. This annual event showcases the rich heritage, artistic expressions, and achievements of the African American community in Iowa.
From captivating performances and exhibitions to engaging workshops and culinary delights, the festival offers a diverse range of experiences that embrace the power of storytelling and cultural exchange. Join in the festivities, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, and discover the beauty and resilience of African American contributions to Iowa’s cultural tapestry at the I’ll Make Me a World in Iowa Festival.
7. A Festive Irish Extravaganza in Emmetsburg
Join in the spirited festivities by attending the St. Patrick’s Day Celebration in Emmetsburg, Iowa. This annual event brings the luck of the Irish to life with a parade, live music, traditional Irish dancing, and mouthwatering cuisine. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, don your green attire, and celebrate the rich heritage and culture of Ireland in the heart of Iowa. Whether you have Irish roots or simply want to embrace the joyous spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, the celebration in Emmetsburg promises a memorable and lively experience for all.
8. Appreciate the Blues at the Mississippi Valley Blues Festival
Visit Davenport for the Mississippi Valley Blues Festival. This event attracts top blues artists for a weekend of excellent music on the Mississippi River and is presented by the Mississippi Valley Blues Society.
9. Celebrate Art at the Art in the Park Festival
Explore the Art in the Park Festival in Elkader. The event features art displays, live music, food vendors, and art workshops. The festival’s location, Founders’ Park, is simply charming: it is located along the Turkey River in Elkader’s historic downtown.
10. Dance to the Music at Hinterland Music Festival
Experience the Hinterland Music Festival (3357 St Charles Rd, St Charles, IA 50240). The event hosts a mix of indie, country, and folk artists, and also offers on-site camping.
11. Embracing Indigenous Culture and Tradition
Experience the richness of Indigenous culture by attending The University of Iowa’s Native American Student Association annual Powwow. This vibrant event showcases traditional dances, mesmerizing drum circles, captivating storytelling, and a marketplace filled with Native American arts and crafts.
Immerse yourself in the captivating rhythms, vibrant regalia, and warm community atmosphere as you celebrate and honor the diverse Native American traditions. The powwow is a unique opportunity to learn, connect, and appreciate the vibrant heritage and contributions of Indigenous peoples.
12. Take Part in the Iowa Renaissance Festival
Step back in time at the Iowa Renaissance Festival in Middle Amana. Enjoy music, comedy, jousting, art, and food in a 16th-century-themed setting. The event takes place in the Middle Amana Community Park, known as “Medici Grove”, located at 734 U Ave, Amana, IA 52203.
13. Experience Cinema at the Julien Dubuque International Film Festival
The Julien Dubuque International Film Festival in Bellevue, promotes understanding of environmental and cultural issues through film and art. MovieMaker Magazine called the Julien, “one of the coolest film festivals.”
14. Attend the Cedar Rapids Independent Film Festival
Discover the work of independent filmmakers at this film festival in Cedar Rapids. It showcases short and feature-length films across various genres.
15. A Festive Celebration of Czech Heritage in Cedar Rapids
Experience the lively festivities and rich Czech heritage by attending Houby Days (1400 Inspiration Place SW Cedar Rapids, IA 52404), presented by the Czech Heritage Foundation. This annual event pays tribute to Czech culture with a vibrant parade, traditional Czech music and dance performances, delicious food, and cultural exhibits.
Immerse yourself in the joyful atmosphere, sample authentic Czech delicacies, and embrace the warm spirit of community as you celebrate the contributions of Czech immigrants to the local culture and history of Cedar Rapids. Houby Days offers a delightful experience that brings the Czech traditions and heritage to life.
16. Immersing in Scandinavian Delights in Decorah
Experience the enchanting celebration of Scandinavian heritage, culture, and culinary delights at Nordic Fest. Held annually in Decorah, Iowa, this three-day festival draws over 10,000 attendees who come together to revel in the rich traditions of the Nordic countries.
Enjoy lively parades, traditional music and dance performances, intricate arts and crafts, and an abundance of mouthwatering Scandinavian cuisine. Nordic Fest offers a memorable opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of the Scandinavian culture while enjoying the warm hospitality and community atmosphere of Decorah.
17. Join the Winter Blues Fest
Escape the winter cold at the Winter Blues Fest in Des Moines. This two-day event features performances from local and national blues artists and is presented by the Central Iowa Blues Society. Concerts typically take place at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown (700 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309).
18. Celebrate Heritage at the Latino Heritage Festival
Join the Latino Heritage Festival in Des Moines. Enjoy Latin American music, dance, food, and arts and crafts at Pappajohn Sculpture Park (1330 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309).
19. Embrace Film at the Hardacre Film Festival
Explore independent cinema at the Hardacre Film Festival in Tipton. This event showcases features, shorts, and documentaries from around the world. It is thought to be Iowa’s longest-running film festival.
20. Revel in Rock ‘n’ Roll at the Buddy Holly Crash Site
Visit the Buddy Holly Crash Site in Clear Lake, where an annual memorial concert is held at the nearby Surf Ballroom to celebrate the music of the musicians who tragically died there. The Buddy Holly Crash Site includes a sculpture of the rock legends’ iconic glasses and is an interesting historical landmark in Cerro Gordo County.
21. Explore Arts at the Ames Main Street Music Walk
Attend the Ames Main Street Music Walk, where businesses turn into music venues, and artists display their work on the sidewalks.
22. A Melodic Journey into Americana
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of bluegrass music by attending The Backbone Bluegrass Festival (1358 110th St, Strawberry Point, IA 52076). This lively festival brings together talented musicians, enthusiasts, and visitors from near and far to celebrate the rich tradition of American folk and bluegrass music.
From toe-tapping melodies to soul-stirring harmonies, the festival offers a delightful experience for music lovers of all ages. Join in the festivities, embrace the lively atmosphere, and create lasting memories as you indulge in the timeless sounds of bluegrass at The Backbone Bluegrass Festival.
23. Experience Cedar Basin Music Festival
Head to Cedar Falls for the Cedar Basin Music Festival, featuring continuous music from local and national acts, and a wide range of food vendors. This free music event coincides with Sturgis Falls Celebration in Cedar Falls, Iowa.
Conclusion
Iowa’s art, film, and music festivals are a testament to the state’s thriving cultural landscape. Whether you’re a passionate art enthusiast, a devoted cinephile, or a music aficionado, these events offer an unforgettable experience that celebrates creativity and community.
As you embark on your Iowa adventures, prepare to be captivated by the talent, diversity, and warmth of the people who make these festivals truly special. So, mark your calendars, pack your bags, and get ready to discover the hidden treasures that await you in the heart of the Midwest. Have fun!
🗣 Which of these Iowa festivals sounds fun to you? Have any we missed? We’d LOVE to hear from you in the comments section below. ⬇️
