The conflict that drove Des Moines' Oktoberfest to Ankeny

Tickets for central Iowa's largest Oktoberfest go on sale Friday, marking the start of a new era for the long-standing festival after an unexpected move from Des Moines to Ankeny.

Why it matters: The move marks a cultural and economic loss for downtown Des Moines, ending a tradition that drew thousands of people each fall.

• The sudden shift highlights the difficulties local event organizers face in securing venues or support, even for signature events.

Driving the news: Oktoberfest Des Moines organizers announced the 16-mile move last week, saying it is "an incredible new chapter" for the event's 21st year that allows it to expand.

Yes, but: The move wasn't harmonious.

Behind the scenes: After months of planning and with entertainers and vendors booked, event organizers found out March 28 that Turnstile, a hardcore punk band, was scheduled to perform at Water Works Park starting at 5pm Sept. 28.

• That wouldn't give the crews of the German-style celebration enough time to prepare the area after its midnight wrap-up on Sept. 27, event owner Melinda Toyne tells Axios.
• "I love the downtown. I've been doing this for 22 years, and it's not fun to restart an event," she said.

The other side: Chris Burch, executive director of the Water Works Park Foundation, tells Axios that consecutive concerts or events have gone smoothly and there was no scheduling conflict.

• He declined further comment.

What we're watching: DSM Biergarten, a German-themed popup that is running its fourth season in the park, will host a new Oktoberfest celebration Sept. 19-21, likely from 11am-9pm, owner Alex Davis tells Axios.

The big picture: A festival recession has been building for years, with dozens of cancellations this year across the U.S., CNN Entertainment reports.

• Surging production costs, high ticket prices and lagging festivalgoer enthusiasm are among the reasons.

Flashback: The 80/35 Music Festival held at Water Works Park last year had disappointing attendance before the Greater Des Moines Music Coalition, its nonprofit operator, dissolved in October.

• Its gross revenue from admissions and merchandise dropped over 50% between 2022 and 2024, from about $685,000 to $333,000 last year, according to the group's final tax filing.

The intrigue: Oktoberfest probably won't return to DSM, but "you never say never," Toyne said.

Next up: Oktoberfest in Ankeny is Sept. 26-27.

Advance tickets ($25 for both days) go on sale at 10am.