DAVENPORT, IOWA (August 13, 2025) — Alternating Currents returns August 14–17, transforming Downtown Davenport, Rock Island and Bettendorf into a multi-city, bi-state celebration of music, comedy, film and art — solidifying the Quad Cities as the creative capital of the Midwest.
This one-of-a-kind festival blends exciting new voices with beloved festival favorites at 46 venues along the Mississippi River. Over 200 free performances featuring 515+ artists and makers will fill streets, stages, and storefronts. From outdoor concerts and live mural painting to indie film premieres, pop-up comedy clubs and family-friendly activities, the festival brings together an exciting mix of talent — spotlighting 34% local artists, 34% from across Iowa and Illinois, 28% national performers and 4% international acts.
“Alternating Currents was designed to move people - literally and creatively - between our downtowns,” said Kyle Carter, Vice President of Place Management for the Quad Cities Chamber. “The name reflects both the current of the Mississippi River and the energy that shifts from place to place. Every stop is a new discovery.”
“Find your vibe at Alternating Currents,” said Alisha Espey, festival director. “No two experiences here are the same — that’s the magic. You might catch a national touring act, discover a local artist, laugh at an intimate comedy set, or stumble upon a mural in progress. Whatever your vibe, you’ll find it in our downtowns along the Mississippi River, right in the heart of the Midwest.”
Nearly all programming is free and requires no tickets. The best way to explore the full lineup is through the free Alternating Currents app or at alternatingcurrentsqc.com, where you can search by day, location or genre, read artist bios, create custom schedules and navigate venues. Follow @alternatingcurrentsqc on social media for lineup announcements, artist spotlights and festival updates.
2025 Festival Highlights
- Music — Fresh energy from acts like Beeson (indie pop), and Michael Wilbur of Moon Hooch (jazz-electronic fusion), punk rockers Gully Boys, heavy rock from Alborn, and hip-hop collective THOT Squad. Returning favorites include Hembree, Post Sex Nachos, Avey Grouws Band, Me Like Bees, and Running Man;
- Comedy — Touring comics, Midwest legends, a new pop-up comedy club at The Phoenix and The FAQ!? trivia game show;
- Film — An expanded Alternating Currents Film Fest with premieres, panels, interactive storytelling and Q&As with featured filmmakers;
- Documentary Premiere — A new one-hour Alternating Currents documentary, filmed at the 2024 festival, with a panel discussion on Sunday;
- AC Block Party — At Common Chord, family-friendly programming all weekend with The Cultural Trust and local arts organizations;
- Mural Fest — In partnership with Quad City Arts, five new murals will be painted live in Davenport, Bettendorf and Rock Island by artists from around the world;
- Thursday Kickoff — Arts Alley Block Party with Siri Lorece, photo scavenger hunt, pop-up shops, silent disco and New Breed Brass Band from New Orleans; and
- New Bettendorf Stage — Outdoor shows at Adventurous Brewing Friday and Saturday afternoons.
About Alternating Currents
Founded in 2017 by the Downtown Davenport Partnership (DDP), an affiliate of the Quad Cities Chamber, Alternating Currents has grown into a multi-city, bi-state celebration of creativity. Now powered by DDP and expanded through placemaking partnerships with the Downtown Bettendorf Organization and Rock Island Downtown Alliance, the festival thrives thanks to the collaboration of local partners, businesses, and artists who help deliver a dynamic, inclusive experience each year.
This year’s leading supporters include Presenting Sponsors Regional Development Authority (RDA) and Rhythm City Casino Resort, as well as Major Partners Rubberstamps.net and Scott County Regional Authority, Accessibility Sponsor Bechtel Trust, Arts Partner The Cultural Trust, Film Partners The Last Picture House, and Iowa Economic Development Authority. Additional programming and supporting sponsors include Estes Construction, Palmer College of Chiropractic, Nature’s Treatment of Illinois, MidAmerican Energy, Express Employment Professionals, Quad City Arts, Hupp Toyota-Lift, and Altorfer CAT. Hive Event Consulting serves as a producing partner. Media Partners include KWQC, Quad-City Times and Dispatch-Argus, Townsquare Media, Planet 93.9, and WQPT.
