80/35 is cancelled!

The 80/35 Music Festival, a cornerstone of Des Moines' cultural landscape since 2008, has been officially canceled following the dissolution of its organizing body, the Greater Des Moines Music Coalition (DMMC). This decision marks the end of an era for a festival that has brought together music lovers and artists for nearly two decades.​The Daily Iowan+6Little Village+6Axios+6

Founded in 2005, the DMMC aimed to cultivate a vibrant and diverse music scene in central Iowa. Over the years, the organization hosted numerous local music events, summer camps, and educational sessions, with the 80/35 Music Festival emerging as its flagship event. The festival featured a mix of local talent and nationally recognized acts, including Public Enemy, Jakob Dylan, Flaming Lips, and Weezer, drawing tens of thousands of attendees to downtown Des Moines each year. ​Little Village+280-35+2Little Village+2Axios

However, the festival faced significant challenges in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic led to the cancellation of the 2020 and 2021 events, and upon its return in 2022, the festival struggled with declining attendance and financial losses. In 2022, the DMMC reported nearly $300,000 more in expenses than revenue, with net assets dropping from $441,000 to $149,000.  In an attempt to mitigate costs, the 2024 festival was relocated from its traditional downtown setting to Water Works Park. Unfortunately, the new location presented challenges, including limited shade and accessibility issues, which were exacerbated by extreme heat during the event. ​80-35+4Little Village+4Little Village+4Little Village+1Little Village+1

In October 2024, the DMMC announced its decision to dissolve, citing the transformed landscape of Des Moines' music scene and the presence of other organizations capable of continuing its mission. While the future of the 80/35 Music Festival remains uncertain, it will no longer be operated by the DMMC. ​Axios+380-35+3Little Village+380-35+2Little Village+2Little Village+2

The cancellation of the 80/35 Music Festival is a significant loss for the Des Moines community and the broader Midwest music scene. For nearly 20 years, the festival served as a platform for artists, a gathering place for music enthusiasts, and a symbol of the city's cultural vitality. Its absence will be deeply felt by all who cherished the unique experiences and connections it fostered.