what is hinterland music festival

Hinterland Music Festival is a multi-day music festival held annually in early August in St. Charles, Iowa, near Des Moines. It is known as the largest music festival in Iowa and offers a unique blend of live music, camping, arts and craft vendors, family activities, and more, all set in a beautiful rural countryside setting. The festival features diverse music genres and has hosted notable artists such as Tyler the Creator, Lana Del Rey, Kacey Musgraves, Bon Iver, and many others over the years. The event typically spans three days and takes place at the Avenue of the Saints Amphitheater, a naturally formed venue overlooking the Iowa landscape. The festival grounds have expanded significantly in recent years to accommodate more attendees and offer a wider array of experiences, including interactive activities like a festival-wide quest involving QR codes and "third spaces" such as the community-oriented Secret Garden. The festival is curated for people who love both music and the outdoors, creating a destination for music lovers to enjoy live performances in a communal, nature-infused environment. It also emphasizes sustainability and attendee comfort, with features like multiple water stations and improved shuttle services. The 2025 edition was held August 1-3 and included an expanded 200-acre footprint, offering more space for vendors and attendees compared to its smaller scale in earlier years. The festival is managed by Live Nation and continues to evolve with new creative and logistical improvements each year. In summary, Hinterland Music Festival is a large, annual outdoor music event in rural Iowa known for its scenic setting, diverse musical lineup, and community-focused atmosphere that combines music, art, nature, and interactive experiences.