Iowa's Hinterland music festival is happening in 2021

Hinterland, one of Iowa's largest music festivals, is officially scheduled for the weekend of Aug. 7 — and it's got a killer lineup.

Why it matters: It's the state's first major music event announced for 2021 — and another step toward a return to in-person gatherings.

How it happened: The vaccination pace cemented organizer Sam Summers' confidence that the fest could be held safely this year.

• "It's starting to feel like there's a light at the end of the tunnel," said Summers.

The state of play: Summers said the festival is moving forward as if it was being held today — with mask requirements, improved sanitation and capacity restrictions.

• The reopening plans for Disneyland and the Life is Beautiful Festival gave him guidance for best protocols.
• Attendance is typically capped at 14,000, but for now, only 5,000 passes will be sold.
• It helps that Hinterland is held in St. Charles (aka spacious rural farmland).

Join in: Passes will be available on Friday.

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