HinterlandScenic countryside festival

The Hinterland Music Festival is an annual three-day celebration of music, art, and community set in the scenic countryside of St. Charles, Iowa. Known for its laid-back vibe and a lineup that blends Americana, indie rock, and folk, Hinterland attracts both large crowds and top-tier musicians. The festival takes place at the Avenue of the Saints Amphitheater, drawing music lovers to experience both the sounds and the beautiful natural surroundings.

Music and Artists

Hinterland features a diverse range of genres with a strong emphasis on:

• Americana
• Folk
• Alternative rock
• Indie

Notable Past Performers:

• Bon Iver
• Maggie Rogers
• Zach Bryan
• Willie Nelson
• Kacey Musgraves
• Hozier

The festival includes multiple stages, but its unique setup is designed to avoid the chaos of running between stages, allowing attendees to relax and enjoy the music all day. Additionally, the Campfire Stage offers intimate, late-night performances exclusive to campers Atwood Magazine, WPR.

Location

Venue: Avenue of the Saints Amphitheater, St. Charles, Iowa

Located just outside Des Moines, this rural setting enhances the festival's relaxed atmosphere. With a venue capacity that accommodates about 12,000 people, the amphitheater is designed to allow for both intimate musical experiences and a sense of community. St. Charles, a small town with fewer than 700 residents, transforms into a vibrant hub during the festival, making Hinterland a special gathering spot in the heart of the Midwest Wikipedia.

Art Installations

Hinterland also showcases art installations that complement the festival's natural and musical beauty. The art typically reflects themes of nature, community, and creativity. Interactive installations encourage festivalgoers to engage with the space and create their own experiences​

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Festival Experience

Multiple Stages

The Main Stage hosts the biggest performances, while the Campfire Stage is for smaller, exclusive performances after dark, providing a more intimate musical experience WPR.

Food and Drinks

Hinterland offers a variety of food options, including regional specialties from the Midwest and typical festival fare. A selection of beverages, including craft beers and cocktails, keeps attendees refreshed throughout the event Iowa Source.

Fashion and Culture

Festivalgoers express themselves through laid-back, eclectic fashion, often incorporating bohemian and folk-inspired elements, blending with the festival's relaxed, outdoorsy vibe Iowa Source.

Workshops and Activities

Attendees can enjoy several activities beyond the music, including:

• Yoga sessions

• Interactive art displays

• Craft-making workshops​.

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Camping

Camping is a major part of the Hinterland experience. Festivalgoers can set up tents in the festival’s designated camping areas, with amenities such as showers, food vendors, and access to the Campfire Stage for late-night shows Atwood Magazine, WPR.

Accommodation

For those not interested in camping, Hinterland offers hotel shuttle services between Des Moines and the festival grounds, ensuring easy transportation options for all WPR.

Tickets and Attendance

Typical Attendance Numbers

Hinterland attracts around 12,000 attendees each year. Tickets often sell out quickly, with general admission and VIP options available. VIP tickets provide exclusive viewing areas, upgraded amenities, and access to special experiences WPR.

History

Founded in 2015 by Sam Summers, Hinterland began with the vision of bringing eclectic, high-quality music to a rural setting, with an emphasis on Americana and indie rock. Since its inception, it has grown into one of the Midwest's most beloved music festivals, known for its community-driven vibe and impressive lineups Wikipedia, Iowa Source.

Sustainability Efforts

Hinterland incorporates several sustainability measures, including waste management initiatives and a strong emphasis on leaving no trace. The festival encourages attendees to minimize their environmental footprint by providing recycling stations and promoting carpooling WPR.

Hinterland Music Festival is a unique gathering of music, art, and community that attracts both locals and visitors from around the country. Its combination of big-name performers, small-town charm, and stunning natural surroundings make it a must-visit event for music lovers.