About Codfish Hollow Barnstormers
Codfish Hollow Barnstormers is a one-of-a-kind music venue set in a historic barn along a gravel country road just outside Maquoketa, Iowa. Opened as a concert site in 2009 by owners Tiffany and Shawn Biehl, the 1954-raised barn has been converted into a rustic indoor arena for live shows . With a capacity of around 550 people (rumored up to ~650 at full stretch), the barn boasts wooden beams and vintage vibe that draws both local fans and touring acts. Inside, old hardwood floors creak beneath string lights and church-pew benches; outdoors, rolling pastures and fire rings complete the setting. The venue is notable for its Midwestern charm and history: it started as part of Daytrotter’s Barnstormer tour of indie bands, and has since hosted everyone from Counting Crows and Dawes to Yonder Mountain String Band and Roger Clyne . The owners encourage a friendly, family-friendly scene – they advise attendees to “bring your kids, bring your grandparents, bring your lawn chairs…bring a blanket” . Fans often describe shows here as magical and intimate. Actor/musician John C. Reilly even said the barn “looks like being in the belly of a whale” . In short, Codfish Hollow Barnstormers is a beloved rural venue where live music meets Iowa farm heritage, making each concert feel like a communal barn dance under the stars.
Events and Programming
Codfish Hollow Barnstormers primarily hosts live music concerts – ranging from national touring indie/folk/Americana acts to local favorites. The owners schedule dozens of shows each season, often from spring through fall (the barn is unheated, so winter is usually dark). Typical events last from late afternoon into evening. Notable recent performers include the Jayhawks, St. Paul & The Broken Bones, Yonder Mountain String Band, Murder by Death, Keller Williams, Abby Hamilton, Charlie Parr, Here Come the Mummies and many more . Special themed events are common: for example, an annual Halloween “Codfish Holloween” festival has featured Bluegrass-funk band MoonShroom with burlesque performers . The venue has also hosted two-day festivals; in 2025 the “Fine 2-Day Fest” spanned September 19–20 with headliners like Susto Stringband and others. Admission pricing varies by event – single-show ticket prices generally range from about $30–$50, while larger festivals may sell day tickets for around $60–$65 (with a full-weekend pass around $100) . Many shows sell out quickly, so outings like Roger Clyne or Lucinda Williams (June 2024) often draw crowds that arrive hours early. In general, the barn’s programming leans on Americana, roots rock, bluegrass and indie sounds, often with local food trucks and camping options to make it a full-day outing rather than just an indoor concert.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Codfish Hollow shows are sold online through the venue’s official Ticketing platform (no in-person box office). Fans should watch the website or social media for announcements. On sale dates vary by show, but popular concerts can sell out within days, so signing up for the venue email list or following them on Facebook is advisable. Advance-sale prices are generally the best value (many shows start around $30–$40 for early tickets). For example, a fall Halloween concert was $30 , while two-day festival passes in 2025 ran $100 . Gate or day-of sales can occur if tickets remain, but most fans buy online ahead. There are no hidden fees on the official site. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferrable by the venue, so if plans change you must sell or give them to someone else yourself . The venue sometimes offers “door tickets” at the concert if not sold out, but arrive early if you want in. In short, for a packed show it’s best to book online well before the date, and be ready to pay via credit or debit card. On event day, bring your printed or e-ticket and photo ID for age verification (alcohol is sold on site, so everyone 21+ needs a valid ID to drink ).
Seating and Layout
The barn’s layout is informal and general-admission. Inside the main floor, attendees mostly stand or form small seated areas – there are only a few fixed wooden pews along the sides . When not dancing, many people simply stand near the stage for the best sound and sightlines. Organizers explicitly ask guests not to bring their own chairs inside; however, there are picnic tables on a grassy hillside outside and some visitors do bring folding lawn chairs for use around the barn exterior (outside in the beer garden or camp areas) . The stage is at one end of the barn on the dirt floor under the roof, so the best views are in the front half closest to the stage. There is no balcony or second floor for the audience – it is essentially one large open space under the barn roof (the lower level where animals once were is now a bar and “green room” for performers). For acoustic reasons, the wooden beams and high ceiling actually give a warm, resonant sound, but power outages have happened (a power transformer once failed during a Counting Crows show). Some fans bring ear protection on very loud shows. Note that the barn is unheated (only perimeter fans in summer), so standing-room viewers should dress warmly on cool nights. In cold weather events, guests often layer jackets and sweaters since it can drop 10°F in the hollow after dark . Overall, the best experience is simply to mingle close to the stage – the rustic space means there really aren’t “bad seats,” just varying perspectives of the wooden interior and stage lighting.
Getting There and Parking
Codfish Hollow Barnstormers sits at 5013 288th Avenue, Maquoketa, IA 52060. From downtown Maquoketa, head north on Highway 62 (toward Andrew Fairgrounds); after about a half-mile past town, turn right onto 35th Street (which becomes Codfish Hollow Road). Follow this rural road for about 2½ miles as it turns to gravel, then turn left onto 288th Avenue . Signage along the way and local cows will point the route. Because the venue is in a remote hollow, cell service is spotty and there is no public transit or rideshare in the area . Visitors overwhelmingly drive themselves; it’s wise to carpool if possible. Parking is very ample and free – the entire cow pasture along the driveway serves as the parking and camping lot. Vehicles are often parked informally on grass. Shuttle “hayrack” rides (on a farm wagon or shuttle bus) carry guests from the parking lot to the barn entrance – typically about a 1/4-mile ride through the fields . You can tip the driver (“Marvin” is famous around here) before and after your ride as a thank-you tip . Low-clearance or very large vehicles should take care driving on the gravel approach. There is no charge for parking or camping, and overnight RV or tent camping is permitted (see FAQ on camping rules below). If you need wheelchair or drop-off accommodations, the venue advises contacting them in advance as there is no formal handicap parking – they will try to assist with a golf-cart or close drop-off . In short, plan to arrive by car, follow Hwy 62/35th Street directions, park in the pasture, and jump on the hayride for a quick trip to the barn.
Inside the Venue
Entering the ticket booth or gate, expect a laid-back but busy festival atmosphere. Staff will check tickets and IDs (for alcohol). Once inside the barn, you’ll find a single open hall with the stage at one end. For refreshments, the barn has two modest bars serving local beer, cider, hard seltzers and wine . Water is available from a cooler at the bar for about $1 per bottle (or bring your own reusable bottle for use outside the performance area). Outside the barn, there is typically a lineup of food trucks and vendors – at least one (often two) in attendance – featuring items like BBQ, grilled sandwiches, vegetarian options or pizza. Cash is king: bars and food trucks prefer cash (the venue bars do NOT accept credit/debit cards or checks ), so have some bills and change handy. In addition, artists often sell T-shirts, CDs or posters at a small merch table near the stage when easy. Restrooms are basic: porta-potties are set up in the camping/parking area, and there may be a few indoor stalls or a nearby bathroom in the farm outbuildings. There’s no coat check or baggage service, so keep your personal belongings nearby (the audience stays together). Network connectivity is limited, so expect Irregular phone signal. As the show progresses, enjoy the communal vibe – people often dance, sit on the ground or picnic tables, and huddle by fire rings outside between sets. Note: codfish festivals are smoke-free indoors – guests must step outside well away from the barn to smoke . During the event, staff and volunteer security encourage guests to wait outside until official door time (anyone sneaking in early may be asked to leave ). Overall, plan for a relaxed concert setting: bring your own lawn chair/blanket for chilling outside (not inside), tip the bartenders, and soak up the warm glow of hanging lights from inside the barn as music plays.
The barn’s cozy interior is often decked out with string lights and rustic stage decor, creating an intimate concert feel. (Image: AI-generated “Barn Music Gathering” scene.)
Nearby Amenities
Codfish Hollow is in a very rural setting, so options at the site itself are minimal beyond music events. For meals or lodging you’ll need to go to nearby Maquoketa (roughly a 10-minute drive). Within town, visitors will find standard roadside fare and local eateries. Local favorites include family-style diners (e.g. City Limits Family Restaurant, Main Street Cafe) and casual chains (the Hall of Fame Pizza & Wings opened a Maquoketa location) for pizza, burgers and comfort food. Several full-service restaurants, bars and a brewery/pub operate downtown on Main Street or near the highway exit. The historic Decker House Boutique Hotel and motels like AmericInn/Quality Inn are among the closest overnight stays, and there are B&Bs in the countryside. If you plan to arrive early or stay late, note that after last call (around 11pm-12am) the roads are dark – it’s safest to drive only when sober. Cell reception on entrances to town improves, and Maquoketa also hosts grocery stores and gas stations if you need supplies (cash is always handy since small-town places may not all take cards). For late-night transport back to the barn, rideshare doesn’t run here, so pre-arrange a designated driver or stay in one of the local inns. If you’re exploring the area before/after a show, Maquoketa Caves State Park and trout fishing sites are a few miles away (camping is available there too). In brief, treat Maquoketa as your home base: eat, sleep or stock up there, then drive north out County Road H56 to the barn venue.
What Makes This Venue Special
Codfish Hollow’s unique charm comes from its combination of history, setting and community. Few modern venues can claim the origin story of this barn: in 2009, Daytrotter’s founder Sean Moeller scouted it for the “Barnstormer” tour. He quickly saw its potential. In 2015 he noted that if one were to design a barn-venue, it was serendipitously already perfect . Since that first barn concert (Local Natives headlined, making it the first live music there in 55 years ), the venue has enjoyed a near-mythic reputation in the roots-music scene . Each major show is commemorated by a hand-carved wooden sign with the artist’s name, now lining the rafters (well over 40 boards hang in the ceiling, a literal history of the barn’s top acts ). The programming frequently mixes up small indie names and big draws in a way that feels organic: artists stay with the owners at the farmhouse, share meals cooked by volunteers, and often jam casually with the crowd. Fans treasure stories like Counting Crows’ Adam Duritz playing an almost three-hour set in 2012, even walking among the audience and signing autographs after the show . Architecturally, it is simply an old farm barn – the raw wood beams, vintage doors and cow stalls left in place (now a green room/bar) give it an authenticity you won’t find in a commercial theater. Culturally, it has put Jackson County on the concert map and become a beloved draw for folk music fans across Iowa and beyond. As Avery Gregurich wrote, “Codfish Hollow has carved out its now mythic reputation” among Midwest music spots . Artists love the audience’s close-up energy, and locals love that each show is still hosted by neighbors rather than a corporation . In short, this venue matters because it’s more than a stage – it’s an idyllic rural gathering place that feels like visiting a lifelong festival.
Visitor Tips and Information
Codfish Hollow Barnstormers is an all-ages venue. Kids under 6 may attend free, but ages 6+ require a ticket . Bring valid ID if you plan to buy alcohol. Dress casually and be prepared for Iowa weather: even in summer, pack a light jacket or sweater for the evening (the barn has no heating) . Earplugs are a good idea for loud rock shows. Plan to arrive early enough to park and ride the haywagon – doors are usually at least 90 minutes before showtime. The grounds can be muddy or grassy, so wear shoes you don’t mind getting dirty. Bathing on the grassy hills or sitting on picnic tables is common, but do NOT set up chairs inside the barn (as per rules ). Outside chairs/folding seats are fine in the open area. Smoking is not allowed inside; step away from the barn to light up . No outside food, beverages or hard coolers are allowed past the entrance gate – all drinking water and snacks must come from on-site vendors . Cash is recommended: beer and wine are cash-only, as are most vendors. Cellphone signal is spotty, so download any directions or tickets beforehand. If you or someone in your party has mobility issues, email the venue in advance so they can help with close parking or a golf-cart ride . Remember, “this barn is only open to music shows” – no weddings or outside rentals are allowed, so all events are concerts or festivals curated by the owners . Finally, show respect for the site: camp only where allowed, use the provided firewood, and dispose of trash (there’s typically recycling/trash bins). That way, future generations can keep enjoying this special place as you did.
Q: Where do I buy tickets and what do they cost?
A: Tickets are sold online through Codfish Hollow’s official website or ticketing platform (there is no traditional box office). Prices vary by show: most single concerts are in the $30–$45 range, while larger festivals or headliner events might go up to $60+ a day. For example, a two-day festival cost $60/ $65 per day ($100 total for both days) . Watch the venue’s announcements for on-sale dates. Popular shows often sell out, so buying in advance is recommended. There are no refunds or exchanges, so plan accordingly.
Q: What is the address and parking situation?
A: The venue is at 5013 288th Avenue, Maquoketa, Iowa . From Maquoketa, take Highway 62 north, turn right on 35th Street (Codfish Hollow Road) one-half mile out of town, then 2½ miles on that road (it becomes gravel) and left on 288th . Parking is in a large adjacent pasture, free of charge. Vehicles park on the grass when you arrive. There is a haywagon shuttle to carry people to and from the barn (about a 1/4 mile ride) . No permits or fees are required for parking or camping. (Tip: cell service is weak out here, so make sure you have directions without GPS.)
Q: Can I take the bus or Uber/Lyft?
A: Unfortunately, no. The barn is very rural. There is no local bus service or Uber/Lyft in Maquoketa . You must drive or arrange private transportation. Carolpooling from town or city is common. Plan to park on-site, and if you need a ride back home late at night, consider staying in town or having the owner pick you up.
Q: Is seating reserved or general admission?
A: All shows are general admission. Inside the barn, most of the floor is open standing room. A few wooden pews line the sides, but beyond that people stand or sit on whatever is handy. There are no assigned seats. If you want to sit, bring a blanket or chair for outside areas; chairs are not allowed inside the barn . The best views are near the stage or at the front of the crowd. Outdoor grassy slopes and picnic tables provide additional spots to watch from farther back.
Q: Can I bring my own lawn chair or cooler?
A: You may bring folding lawn chairs and blankets for use outside the barn in the grounds or seating areas. However, no personal chairs or coolers are allowed inside the barn during the concert . The venue strictly forbids outside food, alcohol or coolers beyond the gate . All drinks must be purchased at the barn (beer, cider, seltzer, wine) and outside coolers/containers will be confiscated at the entrance. Snacks and meals can be obtained from on-site food trucks (changing lineup) each show . You can still use small coolers or cool bags in the camping/parking area, just not inside.
Q: Is the barn climate controlled?
A: No. Remember, it’s an old farm barn. There is no heating or air conditioning . In summer they set up fans, but in cooler weather the barn can be cold. Wear layers and bring a jacket or hoodie for evening shows. If it rains, the roof keeps you dry, but it can still get chilly once the sun sets.
Q: Are kids or seniors allowed?
A: Yes. Codfish Hollow is all-ages for music shows. Children under 6 are free, but ages 6 and up require a ticket . Families often come – many reviews even say “bring your kids and grandparents.” However, parents should note that bands are not censored, so stage banter may include adult language. Seniors and wheelchair users are also welcome; there are no age restrictions (aside from buying tickets for young children). The owners have asked anyone needing assistance to contact them in advance, as they can sometimes arrange closer parking or a golf cart shuttle for guests with mobility issues .
Q: What items are prohibited at the venue?
A: Prohibited items include fireworks, weapons (guns, knives, etc.), and pets – all “no” items were repeatedly stated in the official FAQ . Also, outside alcohol and coolers are not allowed beyond the ticket gate . Only certified service animals may enter (but check with staff first). You should not attempt to sneak in early – staff will remove anyone trying to enter before door time . In short: bring only your ticket, ID, and legal personal items (wallet, phone, small blank etc.), and leave the dangerous or large stashes at home.
Q: Are smoking or vaping allowed?
A: No smoking or vaping is allowed inside the barn. The venue’s policy is strict on this: you must step outside, well away from any flammable areas on the grounds, to smoke . Smoking is tolerated in the open fields and campsites, but please keep it a good distance from the wooden barns and watch your cigarette butts.
Q: Is food and alcohol available on-site?
A: Yes. On every show there is at least one food truck (often two or more) serving things like barbecue, hot dogs, veggie burgers, tacos or pizza . Inside the barn are beer and wine bars (beer and cider from local breweries) – they sell beer, cider, hard seltzer and wine . Non-alcoholic drinks like soda or water are also sold (water is usually $1 a bottle ). All purchases are cash-only; neither the bar nor concession stands take credit cards or checks. Outside food/drink is not allowed through the gate, so plan to buy refreshments there. There is no dedicated coat check or phone charging station, but there’s room at your feet or at table areas for small personal items.
Q: Can I camp overnight on the grounds?
A: Yes. Free camping is allowed in the pasture/parking area on the night of the show (no extra charge) . You may arrive up to two hours before doors to set up your site; camping areas are about a quarter-mile from the barn but a hayride will take you there and back . Facilities are minimal – just portajohns and fire rings. Note the rules: no camping is allowed on nights before or after (just the show night itself). Also no early-birds, and please be respectful of the farm land. If you’d rather camp elsewhere, several Iowa state parks (like Maquoketa Caves) and other campgrounds are nearby.
Q: What should I bring to the concert?
A: Plan for an outdoor barn party. Bring some cash (the bar won’t take cards) and your photo ID for drinks. Other essentials include: layered clothing or a jacket (it can get cool at night) , closed-toe shoes, and earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music. Because the floor is dirt/grass, consider a hat or bandana in dusty weather. Sunscreen and bug spray can be useful when sitting outside before dark. A rechargeable flashlight or headlamp is handy once the barn lights dim at the end. And of course, bring your ticket and ID – without those you can’t enter. Finally, many fans bring a small folding chair or blanket to relax outside the barn (but remember, no chairs allowed inside ). Basically, come prepared for camping-vibe fun!
Q: Are there age limits or restrictions for minors?
A: The Barnstormers’ slogan is “bring your kids!” – it’s fully all-ages. However, everyone age 6 and up needs a ticket . Kids under 6 generally get in free, but must still be accompanied by an adult. Shows can be loud and include adult language, so parents should use discretion. There is no specific “family area,” so expect children to be spread among the crowd (though families often sit toward the back on the grass or at tables). Smoking and alcohol are still restricted as above, irrespective of age in the audience.
Q: Can I use my credit/debit card on site?
A: Not for drinks at the bar or food trucks – these are cash only. The official policy is that bars do not accept cards for alcohol . Some food trucks may take cards, but it’s safest to have cash. For tickets you buy online, you already use a card. If you need cash, there are ATMs in Maquoketa, but consider withdrawing before you arrive as on-site machines could have fees or be busy on event days.
Q: Are pets allowed at Codfish Hollow Barnstormers?
A: No. The venue’s policy explicitly requests that pets be left at home . Only service animals (with documentation) are permitted. The grounds are near livestock and loud music, which can be unsafe for pets. But there are plenty of local kennels and pet-friendly hotels in Maquoketa if you need care for your animal.
Q: What about accessibility and special accommodations?
A: The site is basically flat pasture and a barn floor (no ramps), and there is no formal ADA parking. However, the owners will try to help. As noted in their FAQ, if a guest has a disability or injury, they can contact the venue before the show. The staff may then arrange closer parking, a special drop-off by golf cart, or an accessible seating spot . If this applies to you, email them ahead of time to request assistance. If not notified in advance, expect to park on grass and walk/ride the shuttle like other guests.
