Can I bring my children? Yes! Children are welcome. There is plenty of space for them to walk around. Many of our younger guests enjoy dancing to the music!
Where do I park? Plenty of parking is available in the nearby state lots including in back of Iowa Workforce Development across Grand Ave. from the Capitol and the ramp next to the Wallace Building. there is also curbside parking. PASSENGER DROP OFF AVAILABLE IN FRONT OF THE CAPITOL OR ON THE SERVICE DRIVE NEXT TO THE WEST DOORS.
What can I bring? Lawn chairs, blankets, a picnic dinner, and enjoy an evening of fantastic free music on our lovely Capitol grounds as the sun slowly sets over the downtown skylINE. YOU CAN ALSO PURCHASE DRINKS AND FANTASTIC HOMEMADE ICE CREAM FROM OVER THE TOP.
Can I make a party out of it? Sure! Music Under the Stars is a popular destination for church groups, business groups, and family celebrations. No reservations needed. WE'LL include your group in our announcements!
Is it okay for me to drink alcohol or smoke? Alcohol and tobacco are not permitted on the Capitol grounds.
How early should I get there? If you are there by 6:45 you have plenty of time to find a place to sit (and perhaps enjoy some concessions). But you can come at any time and leave at and time.
Are restrooms provided? Yes, restrooms with special needs access are provided.
How long will the concert last? The concerts begin at 7:00 and are over by 8:30.
What if it rains? The rain location for Music Under the Stars is the Performing Arts Hall at the Drake University Harmon Fine Arts Center, 25th & Carpenter. Enter through the SW (box office) door. Plenty of parking is available on the street and in the Drake lots.
How much does it cost? Music Under the Stars is free and for everyone in our community, thanks to the generosity of our fine sponsors and donors.
So who’s playing? The professional musicians are the same performers who appear with groups such as the orchestras for touring Broadway shows at the Civic Center, the Des Moines Symphony, and the Des Moines Metro Opera. They are the best of the best in central Iowa, and every year they come together in the shadow of our beautiful State Capitol to present a dazzling variety of concert band and big band music for all of the residents of central Iowa.
Can i bring pets? Dogs are welcome! Trash receptacles are provided.
Are there opportunities for volunteers at Music Under the Stars? Yes. Please contact us for available opportunities. The high school volunteers you see at the concerts are working with Music Under the Stars through the Silver Cord program.
What can I do with instruments I no longer play? Music Under the Stars conducts a Student Band and Orchestra Instrument Drive, where gently used instruments are repaired and donated to local public and private elementary schools where they are needed. Every year dozens of children can play in their school music program who otherwise would have been unable to.
Do you accept memorials and bequests? Yes. Please contact us for more information.
Can we get engaged at Music Under the Stars? YES… if you’ll let us know ahead of time, we can prepare a special song for you!
What kind of music do you play? Music Under the Stars appeals to all ages with a diverse variety of concert band, big band, popular, jazz, and Latin selections – the best of traditional and modern band music!