Des Moines' 80/35 music festival's big move

Catch up fast: DMMC launched its flagship event in downtown Des Moines in 2008.

• The festival, which offers multiple free stages, runs almost entirely via volunteers under the nonprofit's mission to elevate the metro's music scene.

Friction point: Downtown construction and street projects made it impractical to keep the festival at its longtime location this year.

• Plus, some business owners and residents didn't like the street closures, and escalating production costs made downtown increasingly challenging, Saah said.

Driving the news: Organizers hope the new site elevates the event to a new level because it has more space and includes the Lauridsen Amphitheater.

• It also has fewer vehicle access points, making it safer for pedestrians, Saah noted.

Zoom in: This year's event, featuring headliners Killer Mike and OK Go, offers camping, food and beverage vendors, kite flying, an art market and a "hammock forest" where people can listen to the music while relaxing.

• There are four free stages, including one with a silent disco.

The big picture: Live music has made a big comeback after the pandemic, but some independent venues and events are still struggling, Forbes reports.

• Maha Festival in Omaha, for example, was canceled this year as its board deals with the increasing costs of talent, labor and insurance.

If you go: Tickets for the 80/35 mainstage start at $85, but people can attend the free stages without paying admission.

• General admission parking is $10.
• Concerts begin at 4:30pm Friday and 12:15pm Saturday.