With Hinterland Music Festival 2025 starting this Friday (August 1), there’s been some important (and exciting) updates to keep you in the loop, especially if you’re coming from out of town. Here’s everything you need to know since our initial preview and lineup discussion:
Hinterland 2025 Set Times & Scheduling
One of the great things about Hinterland is that there’s no need to worry about conflicting set times. The festival runs with just one stage at a time—the Main Stage for the daytime performances, and then the Campfire Stage takes over after the Main Stage shows wrap up. This means you can catch every single set without having to choose between your favorite artists. We’re thrilled to announce that the set times are now live, so you can plan your weekend accordingly!
Campfire Stage: Where The Party Continues
As you may have noticed, there are a few more artists included on the schedule since our lineup preview. The Campfire Stage at Hinterland 2025 will keep the energy going late into the night, with performances running until at least 2 AM on Friday and Saturday, and late into Sunday as well. This is the place to be if you’re looking to keep the vibe alive after the main festival events.
On Friday at 10:30 PM, cdisiac will kick things off, followed by a highly anticipated Rebecca Black DJ Set. Once known for her pop hits, Black has also transitioned into the world of DJing. She’s carved out an impressive space in the scene in a short time. After a stellar set at Bonnaroo 2025 and a memorable Boiler Room Set, Black’s late night spot at Hinterland promises an energetic mix of electronic beats and pop hits.
Saturday morning will bring a quirky and intellectual start to the day with readings by authors Kyle Seibel, Mike Nagel, Rachel Yoder, Avery Gregurich, and Adam Voith. It’s a perfect way to get your brain buzzing before the evening festivities.
Then, at 10:30 PM on Saturday, the stage will light up with performances from Nordista Freeze, Hembree, and Josh Conway (from The Marías). Nordista Freeze is known for blending southern rock and indie vibes, with a live show that brings an infectious energy. Hembree will keep the momentum going with their alt-rock sounds, infused with a touch of synth-pop that will fill the air with euphoric tunes. Finally, Josh Conway, a member of The Marías keeping the crowd moving well into the night.
The final performance of the weekend will be Sunday at 10:30 AM, featuring HAFFWAY and Gordi. Both acts bring soulful, emotionally-charged music that will provide a perfect, mellow conclusion to a weekend full of electrifying performances.
With a diverse lineup ranging from DJ sets to live indie rock, the Campfire Stage is the perfect spot for late-night revelers to extend the festival’s magic into the early hours of the morning.
Afterparty at Val Air Ballroom
There’s no party like an afterparty! After the festival winds down on Sunday, August 3rd, head over to the Val Air Ballroom in West Des Moines for a special combined acoustic set from Wyatt Flores and Evan Honer. Wyatt Flores, known for his raw country sound, and Evan Honer, an indie-Americana artist with viral success, will bring their unique styles to this intimate post-festival performance. Ticket information is available here.
Templeton Distillery Activation:
Hinterland is proud to partner with Templeton Distillery, Iowa’s very own whiskey maker, as the festival’s whiskey of choice. Experience the festival like a local with the perfect pairing of great music and Iowa’s finest whiskey. Keep an eye out for a special speakeasy Templeton will be bringing to the fest! (You know we will!)
Local Highlights for Out-of-Town Attendees:
If you’re like us and visiting from out of town, be sure to check out these iconic local spots while you’re in the area:
Bridges of Madison County: Just 30 miles from Des Moines, Madison County is home to six historic covered bridges, including the famous Roseman Covered Bridge, which became an icon through the novel and film The Bridges of Madison County. These scenic spots are perfect for a short trip or photo op. You can get more information from the Madison County Tourist Center.
Surf Ballroom & Buddy Holly Crash Site: A couple hours north from the festival is Clear Lake, IA, where you can visit the Surf Ballroom, the site of Buddy Holly’s last concert before his tragic crash in 1959. Just five miles from the ballroom, you pay homage at the Three Stars Memorial, the location where Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson tragically crashed. You can get more information about both sites on the Surf Ballroom’s website.
Camping Info for Hinterland 2025 Attendees:
For those camping at Hinterland 2025, here’s everything you need to know to make your experience as smooth as possible. (This is just an overview. There’s a ton of additional information on Hinterland’s info page under “Camping.“
Arrival Information: Check-in for all campers is available on Thursday from 12 PM – 8 PM and Friday-Sunday from 9 AM – 7 PM, with exit by Noon on Monday.
Facilities: Port-a-potties will be available throughout the campgrounds, and SAINTS and Glamping pass holders will have access to air-conditioned restrooms. Showers will be available for $10 (credit card only), with free showers for SAINTS ticket holders. Shower hours are 5 AM – 10 PM on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, located near Dollar General and RV Camping.
Getting Around: The festival spans 1.5 miles, so be ready to walk. If you’re in Tent Camping, Glamping, or SAINTS, your car will not be right next to your tent—wagons are highly recommended for hauling your gear. SAINTS campers will have access to golf cart transportation, and pedicab rides will be available for an additional cost. For safety, walking along Highway G50 is prohibited—stick to the main festival trails. If you are in car camping, your car will be with you at your campsite!
Food, Water, and More: You’re allowed to bring outside food and drinks into the campgrounds, limited to three cases of beer, wine, or liquor per group (no glass bottles). There will be water refill stations throughout the grounds, so bring refillable bottles or jugs. Camp stoves and grills (propane or charcoal) are permitted. For those who prefer not to cook, food vendors will be available for purchase, and ice will be sold in the campgrounds.
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