The Arts STL is hitting the road! Our Michael O’Connor is heading north to Iowa for the 10th annual Hinterland festival. Is the lineup worth the road trip? Michael says yes. Read on for more details on this year’s fest.
Hinterland returns August 1–3 to the rolling hills of St. Charles, Iowa, celebrating its 10th anniversary with one of its most captivating lineups yet. Known for its single-stage setup, Hinterland has curated a space where immersive performances are able to coexist with midwestern charm. Whether you’re posted up in a hammock or vibing in the crowd, this year’s edition is primed for intimate moments and a vibrant countryside escape.
The festival kicks off on Friday with INJI, starting the festival with an electro-pop style. She’s able to balance danceable rhythms with an indie flow, creating a balance that’ll be perfect to start off the upcoming days of music. Remi Wolf will also be performing on day one, responsible for songs like “Disco Man” and “Cinderella.” Headlining is Tyler, the Creator. His genuine theatrical genius will be an outstanding set to behold as every frame of his set promises motion, mood, and absolute madness.
Saturday finds its personality in its vulnerability. Gigi Perez’s moody and emotionally compelling performance will draw in anyone tuned to the frequency of introspective indie. Artists like Role Model follow to capitalize on Gigi’s intimate sound with tender lyrics and a more pop/indie feel. Closing the evening is Kacey Musgraves; an absolutely radiant artist, it’s easy to understand why she scored a headlining slot, and she promises to deliver an ethereal warmth and cinematic set.
Hinterland closes out on Sunday with a day of well-rounded rustic flair and vintage folk. Sierra Ferrell’s timeless and pure vocal tone make her one of the weekend’s most exciting artists to perform. Bleachers will also be taking the stage (hopefully playing tracks like “Don’t Take the Money” and “Rollercoaster”) with their upbeat anthems and maximalist energy. The main act ending the festival will be the queen herself, Lana Del Rey. Del Rey’s melancholic and slow-motion majesty will transform the Iowa hillside into a true dreamscape.
With Hinterland’s blend of starlit camping, curated food vendors, and a lineup that effortlessly balances introspection and spectacle, this year’s festival is set to be truly unforgettable. Featuring some of the most talented artists in the scene, the 2025 lineup promises to resonate long after the final encore – giving Hinterland a farewell worthy of folklore. | Michael O’Connor
Tickets for Hinterland are $145 for a one-day general admission ticket, or $330 for a three-day pass, with VIP upgrades as well as on-site camping and various shuttle options. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit hinterlandiowa.com.
