Des Moines' 80/35 music festival makes a big move when it starts Friday

80/35 begins its new era at Water Works Park on Friday.

Why it matters: A lot is riding on the annual event's success at its new spot, especially as other nonprofit music festivals struggle, Greater Des Moines Music Coalition (DMMC) board president Kuuku Saah told Axios.

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.