DBQFest is Iowa's longest-running annual arts festival. The 2026 edition will take place on August 8 and 9 in Dubuque, IA's Washington Park. The event features an arts fair, live music, and participatory arts programming. We are open to all genres of music, but prioritize low to medium intensity acts that will compliment our arts fair. Organized by the Dubuque County Fine Arts Society, this free, two-day community celebration includes a juried Art & Makers Fair showcasing 50+ regional artists, live performances across multiple stages, local food vendors, hands-on workshops, and family-friendly park activities. DBQFest is entirely volunteer-supported and donation-funded, with a mission to keep the arts accessible to all while spotlighting the creativity and culture of the Dubuque community.
Performer Rules & Guidelines:
Our focus for performers is on Dubuque county and surrounding area. We look for performers and music that will compliment the art fair, not compete with it.
● Performers will be reviewed by a 3-4 person jury. After reviewing the application, the Performer Coordinator may contact you with any questions.
● We have a performer payment budget, and cannot go over it. This group will review the applications and work to create a diverse lineup that compliments the art fair and the atmosphere.
● Preference will be given to performers who have not played the festival in at least two years.
● The Performer Coordinator will send notifications May 15, 2026. Watch your emails around that time to know if you have been accepted. After acceptance, line up and performance schedule will be confirmed. Contracts will be sent with more specific details.
● Performers must arrive at least 30 minutes before your performance time to load in and sound check.
● Performers must provide all personal instruments and equipment needed for performance, to connect to Audio Company equipment.
● Performers must provide items available for promotion; photos, bio or description, any social media links.
DBQFest is Iowa's longest-running annual arts festival. The 2026 edition will take place on August 8 and 9 in Dubuque, IA's Washington Park. The event features an arts fair, live music, and participatory arts programming. We are open to all genres of music, but prioritize low to medium intensity acts that will compliment our arts fair. Organized by the Dubuque County Fine Arts Society, this free, two-day community celebration includes a juried Art & Makers Fair showcasing 50+ regional artists, live performances across multiple stages, local food vendors, hands-on workshops, and famil...