Looking Back at One Year of Music and Memories in Waukee

As we reflect on the first year since Vibrant Music Hall opened its doors, it's been rewarding to see our vision come to life. From blueprints to a state-of-the-art facility, our goal has always been to create a space where music can bring people together, and we are proud of how it has resonated with Greater Des Moines (DSM). While it has been an incredible year, this is just the beginning of what will be many more to come.

KeeTown Loop Development in Waukee

Located in Waukee’s new entertainment district, KeeTown Loop, we take great pride in being the first business to open in this burgeoning area. We hope that Vibrant Music Hall has helped pave the way for the many restaurants, bars, hotels and retail spaces that have since joined us to create this dynamic space. Being an integral part of this community is not just a responsibility, it’s an honor. We live and work alongside the very same people who come through our doors to enjoy a show, and we are committed to being good neighbors and making every visit a memorable experience.

Welcoming Artists to Greater Des Moines

From day one, our mission has been to make Vibrant Music Hall a hub of artistic expression and a venue that reflects the pride of our local community. We are passionate about supporting local artists, and our VIP lounge, the Red Room, has become a showcase for these talented individuals. On weekends, we regularly feature performances by local musicians, furthering our commitment to elevating local artists.

Community Sustainability

Sustainability is also at the core of our values. Our dedicated sustainability coordinator oversees a robust program to minimize our environmental footprint, with recycling stations throughout the venue. We remain committed to fostering a cleaner, greener environment for both our patrons and our community.

Investing in the Next Generation

Beyond the music, we believe being active participants in our community. Whether through venue tours for local schools, donating tickets to local charities or prioritizing hiring local staff, we are dedicated to enriching the community around us. We often open our doors to students interested in the music industry, providing a glimpse into the world of live entertainment. It’s our way of investing in the next generation and creating pathways for future leaders in the industry. Our full-time team is made up of industry professionals who are also members of the DSM community and hundreds of part-time crew members who bring the venue to life on show days.

About Vibrant Music Hall

Vibrant Music Hall’s dedication extends beyond fans and crew. The artists who perform here are a key part of our focus, and every detail of the venue’s design was crafted with their comfort in mind. From the size of the stage to the amenities in the dressing rooms, we ensure that artists and their touring crews feel at home. We aim for Waukee to be more than just a stop on their tour, but a place they look forward to visiting again.

Membership

We’ve loved the feedback from fans about our membership program, which offers incredible sightlines from boxes or club seats for both passionate music fans or businesses looking to entertain clients and host employees. This membership starts with an opportunity to never miss a show and gain early access before shows to our exclusive VIP lounge, the Red Room. Our Red Room boasts an extensive elevated menu with fan-favorites like the Vibrant Old Fashioned and a local brew from Big Grove Brewery.

Special Events

Vibrant Music Hall has become a sought-after space for special events this last year, hosting corporate meetings, fundraisers and private celebrations. We designed the venue to be adaptable, ensuring every event held here feels both unique and exceptional. With food and beverage offerings from celebrity chefs like Danny Trejo and the Voltaggio Brothers, as well as signature Live Juice cocktails or zero-proof options crafted by expert mixologist Sean Kenyon, guests can enjoy an elevated experience, whether attending a concert or a private function.

Calendar Lineup

As the only concert venue in Waukee, we take our role seriously in representing the community. This city was ready for a live music destination, and we are honored to provide that space for artists and fans alike. With a lineup that spans genres — from country and metal to hip-hop and comedy — there’s something for everyone. Our partnership with First Fleet Concerts, a Des Moines-based booking company, has been instrumental in curating this diverse range of talent, and we look forward to what’s ahead in our show calendar.

Looking Ahead

Looking back, our grand opening event featuring Needtobreathe remains a special memory. It felt like the culmination of so much hard work and teamwork. To see the venue filled with fans enjoying every moment was a powerful reminder of why we built Vibrant Music Hall. As we approach our one-year anniversary, we are excited for the milestones that year two will bring, and we remain deeply committed to being a vital part of this community. 

The Greater Des Moines Partnership calendar of events is a one-stop resource for activities taking place throughout the region. Find networking information for Greater Des Moines (DSM) businesses, including Chamber luncheons, roundtables and ribbon cuttings. You can also find live music happening each week thanks to the “Live Music This Week in DSM” blog series.