About 1400 270th St
1400 270th St in Libertyville, Iowa is best known as the rural site of the annual Symmetry Music & Arts Festival. This address isn’t a traditional indoor arena or theater, but rather open farm fields and woods transformed into a multi-stage event space each fall. The venue was developed by local producers (Lucid Journeys and Iowa City’s vibe.digital) who cleared farmland just outside town to build stages, camping areas, and art installations . Inaugurated in 2024, the festival grounds now occupy roughly 5–6 acres of an old cornfield box, with plenty of room to expand on about 20 acres of property . The spot is notable for bringing world-class electronic music and visual art to the Iowa countryside, proving you can “stay here” instead of going to a big city for a major festival . Signature features include the farm-field scenery (surrounded by 9-foot corn and forest) and the DIY, grassroots vibe that emphasizes creativity and community .
In practical terms, 1400 270th St is an outdoor festival venue: there are no permanent buildings or seats – everything from sound and lighting rigs to vendor booths is set up temporarily each event. Its historic significance is very recent – essentially the story of a new event series. Organizers originally hosted smaller concerts and art gatherings on these fields over several years (including a 2023 free show with 500 people) and then launched Symmetry as a full paid festival when a friend offered the land . The first Symmetry — a two-day music-and-art event in September 2024 — drew around 900–1,000 attendees, and the site has been gearing up for larger crowds each year . Today the venue stands out as one of the Midwest’s most ambitious uses of rural space for live entertainment: a barnless, stage-in-the-cornfield festival that bridges a European-style trance environment with small-town American culture .
Events and Programming
The main event at 1400 270th St is the Symmetry Music & Arts Festival, an 18-and-over electronic music and arts festival held annually (typically a Friday–Saturday weekend in early fall, with a Thursday pre-party added in recent years). Symmetry’s debut in Sept 2024 featured over 50 bands and DJs on two main stages, plus additional “renegade” side stages in the camp area . The lineup focuses on bass-heavy and “wave” subgenres of electronic music: early headliners included Of the Trees, Ravenscoon, A Hundred Drums, SIPPY and UZ . It also showcases visual art installations and performance art, ranging from live painters to immersive neon light sculptures. In 2025 the festival expanded into a three-day event (including a Thursday night pre-party) featuring 80+ acts across three stages . Organizers plan Symmetry as an annual tradition and intend to grow it larger each year .
Programming at Symmetry is eclectic: besides the main music sets, festival-goers enjoy workshops (some hosted by regional nonprofits), vendor markets and a “vendor village” of food and crafts . Interactive art and local culture are central – expect live painting and immersive art installations scattered throughout the grounds . Music runs deep into the night (the stage was open until 5am in 2024 ) with a heavy light show that is considered a major attraction.
Outside of Symmetry, there are no regular events at this address. (The land’s owners occasionally allowed small private gatherings, but Symmetry is the only major event series.) The site is essentially booked out for the annual festival; between events the fields sit fallow or are used for grazing.
Tickets and Booking
All event tickets for 1400 270th St’s festival must be purchased in advance from the official Symmetry Festival channels (the event website or authorized ticket partners) . Early-bird tickets typically go on sale months ahead of the festival (for example, Symmetry’s first ticket rollout was announced in spring 2024). General Admission (GA) 2-day passes ran about $180–190 each (including fees) for early buyers www.ticketfairy.com. A VIP pass (with perks like AC bathrooms and a dedicated viewing area) was roughly $370 early on www.ticketfairy.com. There are also bundled (pick-your-group-size) GA packages and a premium VIP+Glamping package that includes furnished tents www.ticketfairy.com. Optional shuttle passes (e.g. from Cedar Rapids) were sold as upgrades; notably, organizers offered a shuttle from Cedar Rapids airport for about $65 each way . Vehicle parking or car-camping passes must be purchased separately (about $42–45 per vehicle for the weekend www.ticketfairy.com).
Once on sale, tickets can sell quickly. It’s wise to book early for any popular act. Tickets may also be sold at the gate if still available, but there’s no guarantee – the festival emphasizes buying ahead. Important booking tips: the festival is strictly 18+ with ID checked at entry, and all sales are final (tickets are non-refundable even if an act drops or weather changes) . The site enforces no unauthorized transfers of tickets, so only official stock is valid. In recent years the organizers offered payment plans (spreading the cost over months) as an option for ticket purchases www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com.
Seating and Layout
This venue has a totally open layout – think festival camping ground rather than a seated theater. There are no fixed seats; all viewing areas are general admission. The main festival layout places two or three large stages amid a grassy meadow and woods. In 2024 Symmetry ran two large stages; by 2025 the grounds were enlarged to hold three music stages . Attendees stand or sit on blankets in front of the stages; some bring folding chairs or camp stools for comfort. VIP ticket holders get access to roped-off front-zone sections near the main stage and can use a climate-controlled restroom .
Beyond the stages, the layout includes a camping area (tents set up in cleared woodland and field zones) and a central “vendor village” where food trucks and craft stalls line the paths . Restroom trailers and hygenic stations are scattered between the campground and concert zones. A lost-and-found booth is also on-site. Because it’s flat open land, sightlines are generally good – the main stage has a direct view from its audience field. There are some trees and portable structures that can slightly block views on the far side, so arriving early is the best way to secure a close spot. Sound is amplified with high-quality festival PA rigs, so even viewers farther back can hear clearly (though neighbors farther away report hearing music across the countryside).
Getting There and Parking
The festival site is deep in rural Jefferson County. The simplest driving directions: from Libertyville (Iowa Hwy 22), go south ~3 miles on Douds Road. Watch for a billboard sign on 270th St reading “SYMMETRY FESTIVAL”, then turn west and follow 1.3 miles to Eastwood Ave, turning left toward the site . Attendees must enter via this north-side access; there is no entry from 105th Rd (south) . Major highways nearby are I-80 to the north and US-218 to the west; the venue is roughly a 1¼–1½ hour drive from Des Moines or Cedar Rapids.
Parking is organized and requires a paid pass. Every car needs either a “Weekend Parking Pass” (which gets you a spot in the shared lot and lets you camp tent-only) or a “Car Camping Pass” (which allows parking at your campsite with your vehicle) . These passes must be bought in advance (about $42–$45 per car www.ticketfairy.com). Designated lots near the entrance are well-marked, and festival stewards will guide you. If you park in a no-pass zone, your car will not be allowed onto the grounds. Drop-off for rideshare or taxi services is typically at the 270th/Eastwood turn–on point; from there you must purchase a pass to actually drive or park on site.
Public transportation is essentially nonexistent – the venue is too remote for city buses. The closest town of any size is Fairfield, where one finds Amtrak (Ottumwa Amtrak station is also an hour away, but not practical), plus bus lines. Many visitors fly into Cedar Rapids (CID) or Des Moines (DSM) and then rent a car or take a shuttle (charter shuttles were offered via Bus.com, $65 each way from Cedar Rapids) . Ridesharing apps like Uber are sparse in the farmland area; if you plan not to drive, it’s wise to arrange a shuttle in advance or coordinate group transport.
Inside the Venue
Once inside, visitors experience a festive campground atmosphere. Attendees enter through a security gate (ID and ticket/wristband check) and are searched for prohibited items . The ground underfoot is packed dirt and grass, so flat shoes and possibly gaiters are sensible. The main stage area is open-air with big speakers and LED visuals. You’ll cross a small bridge or path (depending on the year’s layout) between the camping fields and music stages. During event hours (generally afternoon through early morning), food trucks line the vendor lanes serving local and regional fare, plus there are beverage vendors selling beer and non-alcoholic drinks.
Camping areas (included with any festival ticket) are wooded clearings just beyond the concert perimeter. Map booths direct you to your zone: tent-only zones separate from car-camping zones. Each tent camping unit (no vehicle) fits one vehicle’s worth of campers. Insides: expect portable toilets (both men’s and women’s) scattered around and hand-washing stations. There is a staffed info booth that can help with first aid, lost items (Lost & Found), or directions. The festival sells official Symmetry merchandise (apparel, posters, art) at a central merch tent. Note the no-drone rule – aerial cameras are prohibited .
Connectivity is very limited – cell service is spotty in these fields . You should assume any reception will be weak; many guests plan a “digital detox” and meet friends at a designated spot rather than rely on phones. For power, plan to bring your own battery pack or solar generator if needed (gas generators are banned) . In general, the festival runs entirely on temporary infrastructure (stages, lighting rigs, porta-toilets) and staff trucks. Vendors often accept cards, but it’s smart to bring a bit of cash since there may not be ATMs on site.
Nearby Amenities
The immediate area around 1400 270th is quite rural, so amenities are minimal. Libertyville itself (population ~300) has a couple of local bars/restaurants for pre- or post-festival visits. Notably, Peck’s Pub (107 W. Maple Ave) is a popular restaurant/bar with burgers and local flavor . The Dew Drop Inn (306 Fairfield Rd) is another Libertyville bar-grill frequented by locals . These tend to close by 10pm or so, and options are limited on Sundays. Shopping is sparse; the nearest convenience stores/gas outlets are in Libertyville or the tiny nearby town of Douds. Faisac, bring any groceries or supplies you might need in advance of event day.
Major amenities are in Fairfield (about 15 miles north): this town of ~10,000 has chain hotels, restaurants and gas stations. Two of the closest hotels for off-site stays are AmericInn by Wyndham Fairfield and Quality Inn Fairfield . Fairfield also has a grocery (Fareway Market) and several casual diners (pizza, cafes, fast food). If driving in for the day and leaving, your safest lodging pickup would be in Fairfield rather than back in Libertyville. After festival hours, rideshare or taxi from Fairfield is more reliable than from Libertyville, since more drivers service that area.
What Makes This Venue Special
1400 270th St stands out as a uniquely Iowa experience. Unlike a typical corporate concert hall, it’s raw nature turned party space. Revelers are ensconced in a sea of corn and oak, creating a “middle of nowhere” vibe that festival-goers rave is “magical” . Reviewers have praised the “production quality of stages, light shows, sound, and the vendor village,” noting how surprising it is to find that level of artistry on a Southeast Iowa farm . The juxtaposition of high-end electronic music production (think throbbing bass and lasers) with rural farmland architecture makes it memorable.
Culturally, this venue matters because it brings a global underground music scene to a remote area. Organizers say Symmetry is North America’s foremost “wave” music event , drawing attendees from across the U.S. (and even overseas) who normally would travel to places like Chicago or Denver for such festivals. As co-owner Donny Revolinski put it, Symmetry is “an investment into the community” – showing that small-town Iowa can host a world-class festival . Over 60% of 2024 ticket-buyers were from out of state .
The venue’s uniqueness also comes from its grassroots origins: local volunteers and Midwest production teams literally shaped the landscape. Lucid Journeys’ Jeremy James cleared brush and built stages from scratch, applying his links from theater and event production to construct a multi-stage site . The festival’s name, Symmetry, reflects the balance of music, art, and community found here. Even neighbors marvel that a tiny Libertyville area became a “melting pot for every specific type of fan” of electronic music . In sum, 1400 270th St isn’t just another concert site – it’s a testament to uniting creative people with prairie scenery in an unexpected place.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The festival makes efforts for patrons with disabilities. USPS require email registration ahead for ADA parking and camping near the entrance . There is a dedicated viewing platform at the main stage for anyone who needs it . Note: organizers don’t provide wheelchair/scooter rentals, so plan to bring your own mobility aid. Also bring extra battery power for any medical devices – the site advises carrying a portable power bank or solar unit, as electrical outlets are not reliable .
What to Bring: Standard camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, camp chair) is expected if you’re staying on site. Pack layered clothing and rain gear – even comfy weather can turn chilly at night, and Symmetry is rain-or-shine so mud is possible (waterproof boots recommended). Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and bug spray for daytime. Bring refillable water bottles (no glass allowed) since free water stations will be provided. The festival strongly suggests earplugs – the main stage bass can be very loud, especially at night . Your digital ticket or download will be exchanged for a wristband on arrival, so have your e-ticket ready. Valid photo ID (for 18+ entry) and any prescription medications (in original containers) are a must .
What Not to Bring: For safety and space, avoid large bags, coolers (other than small ones to camp), drones, and outside alcohol beyond one sealed bottle of water per person. Professional cameras with long lenses are prohibited, though casual point-and-shoot cameras are permitted . The full list of restricted items is posted on the festival site, but key restrictions include no hard liquor kegs, no outside grills or fireworks, and no promotional vending gear .
Common Mistakes: One mistake is relying on cell phones; coverage is very spotty here , so print maps in advance or establish meeting points. Another is arriving too late (especially with a large group) – parking can back up and campsites fill early. Cars without the proper pass will be turned away. Also, be mindful of local neighbors: the festival requires people to minimize noise and litter. Follow the “Leave No Trace” ethos – pack out all your trash and respect quiet hours if you camp. The organizers worry that overly strict rules (like ending music at midnight) could kill the vibe, but also ask attendees to be considerate of landowners and fellow campers.
Local Terms: In Iowa you’ll hear “parking lot” rather than “car park” and “line” in place of “queue”. Roads here are mostly two-lane county roads ("gravel roads" in many spots). There is no “tube” transit or subway; driving a car is the standard. If you pass through Fairfield on the drive, locals might say “arvo” (afternoon) or refer to a $5 “lung clip” (also known as a Jello shot) at the bars. These small cultural notes give this place a friendly Midwestern flavor.
Pro-Tip: Plan to arrive in Libertyville or Fairfield at least one hour before gates open to avoid traffic snags. If camping, stake out your spot early – ground is flat so prime spots near trees or shade can go quickly. Lastly, bring a car charger or backup battery for your phone (the grid is not entirely stable), and download any festival schedule or map beforehand to save on data once you’re out there.
What events happen at 1400 270th St in Libertyville, Iowa?
The address is the site of the annual Symmetry Music & Arts Festival, a 2-3 day camping festival of electronic bass and wave music. It features live DJs and musicians on multiple outdoor stages, plus art installations and workshops. No other regular events take place there; the farmland is largely idle outside of the festival dates.
How do I purchase tickets for Symmetry Festival?
Tickets (GA, VIP, etc.) are sold online through Symmetry’s official website or authorized ticket partners. Early-bird tickets go on sale in spring/summer before the festival. It’s recommended to buy in advance; day-of gate sales are only possible if tickets remain unsold. All ticket sales are final (no refunds) .
Is 1400 270th St an indoor venue?
No. This venue is completely outdoors. It’s a temporary festival ground on open fields and forest, with stages set up under the sky. All performances and activities occur in the open air .
What is the capacity of the festival venue?
Symmetry’s organizers estimate its space can hold roughly 1,000–1,200 people per year . In 2024 they used 5–6 acres for crowds and planned for around 1,000 campers. By 2025 upgrades allowed over 1,200 attendees (65 acts in 2024 vs. 102 acts in 2025) .
How do I get to 1400 270th St by car or transit?
The venue is about 15 miles south of Fairfield, IA. From major highways, drive to Libertyville (via Hwy 22 or US-218). In Libertyville, take Douds Road south ~3 miles, then turn west onto 270th St when you see the Symmetry sign. Follow it 1.3 miles to Eastwood Ave, then left into the festival entrance . There is no regular public transit to this remote location – most visitors drive or take a shuttle.
Are there parking facilities and how much do they cost?
Yes. Parking is onsite in dedicated lots. Every vehicle must purchase a pass: a “Weekend Parking Pass” (about $42–$45) to park off-site, or a “Car Camping Pass” if you plan to sleep in your vehicle at camp www.ticketfairy.com. These are sold in advance. The lots are patrolled, so hang your parking wristband visible on your mirror when parked.
Is public transportation available to the festival?
No. The site is very remote. There are no buses or trains directly to Libertyville. The nearest airports are Cedar Rapids and Des Moines. Some services (like Bus.com) offered limited shuttle rides from Cedar Rapids airport for a fee , but otherwise driving or charter bus is the only way to reach the farm. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) are uncommon in the area.
What are the seating/standing arrangements?
There are no fixed seats. All stages are open field (“general admission”). Attendees may stand, sit on the grass, or bring portable chairs. VIP ticket-holders get special access to a roped-off viewing area near the main stage. The concert area is flat and spacious, but crowds gather close to the stage early to secure good sightlines. Remember, it’s outdoor – bring a blanket or low chair for comfort if needed.
What should I know about venue rules and policies?
Symmetry has strict rules. It’s an 18+ event (no minors) . At entry, all bags and vehicles are searched. Allowed: food, water bottles (no glass), and small cameras. Prohibited: weapons, kegs, outside alcohol, generators, drones, pets, professional cameras (with big lenses) and large sound systems . Alcohol is allowed only in camping areas. Everyone must wear their wristband. The event is rain-or-shine and final sale (no refunds) .
What amenities are available on site (food, restrooms, etc.)?
Yes. The venue has portable restrooms and hand-wash stations throughout. VIP tickets include access to climate-controlled bathrooms near the main stage . Food trucks and drink vendors operate in the festival grounds (the “vendor village”), selling meals, snacks, and beverages . Cash and cards are usually accepted by vendors, but it’s wise to bring some cash just in case. There’s no coat check, so carry any valuables with you and plan to pack out everything you bring (the festival enforces a “Leave No Trace” clean-up) .
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
Yes, to an extent. The terrain is rough (woods and grass) but ADA parking and camping spots are near the entrance . There is a dedicated accessible viewing area at the main stage . Attendees needing assistance can visit the information booth or find a staff member. Note: organizers suggest coordinating via email ahead of time for any special accommodations . There are no wheelchair rentals on site, so bring your own if needed.
Can I camp on site, and is camping included in the ticket?
Yes. Festival tickets include tent-only camping. You are welcome to pitch your tent in the designated camping zones (just follow posted signs). If you want to camp with your vehicle, you must upgrade to a car camping pass. Showers are not provided, so plan accordingly. The campground is open whenever the festival is running (and usually opens by noon the first day) . Returning campers advise packing sturdy tent stakes (soil can be rocky) and all supplies – you won’t be leaving camp much once the gates close.
What is Symmetry Festival’s weather policy?
Symmetry is a rain-or-shine event. Outdoor shows go on through light rain or wind. Tickets are final as per the Terms & Conditions: no refunds or exchanges for weather cancellations or delays . Always check the forecast and bring rain gear. In 2024 a weather delay pushed some shows past midnight, so pack extra clothing and be ready for muddy conditions.
Where can I find food and drinks?
Inside the festival grounds you’ll find a variety of food trucks and a vendor aisle (often called the “vendor village”) serving barbecue, pizza, ethnic food, coffee, and beverages . Water refill stations are also provided. Outside food and drink (except one sealed water bottle per person) are not allowed in the concert area . If you want specific snacks or a cooler, bring them into your campsite (campgrounds are more lenient). Bars in nearby Libertyville (Peck’s Pub or Dew Drop Inn ) are options before or after the festival hours.
Can minors or pets attend?
No. Symmetry is strictly 18 and over . Anyone under 18 will be turned away, with no exceptions. Pets are also prohibited anywhere on the property. Service animals are a special case – check festival FAQs for guidelines, but ordinary pets are not allowed.
What should I bring to the event?
Bring camping basics (tent, sleeping bag, camp chair), layered clothing, and rain gear. Sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent are wise. Pack reusable water bottles (no glass). Bring earplugs for loud music. You’ll need ID and your ticket confirmation to get wristbands. Since cell service is poor, consider a backup phone battery or set meeting points. Plan to have any needed medical supplies; there is limited power on site . The festival provides restrooms and some vending, but if you have dietary needs or specific gear, bring them from home.
What nearby hotels or restaurants are there?
Libertyville itself has just a couple of eateries/bars: notably Peck’s Pub (107 Maple Ave) and Dew Drop Inn (306 Fairfield Rd) . These are good for a quick meal before or after the fest. For lodging, your best options are in Fairfield, IA (AmericInn, Quality Inn, etc.) which is about a 20-minute drive north . Fairfield also has more restaurant variety. There are some Airbnb rentals in the area as well. Because the festival is far from city centers, plan to arrive with a full tank of gas and make any last-minute purchases in Fairfield or Libertville before heading in.
