Road Work: Hinterland Festival, Zootown Music Fest, and Mötley Crüe’s Return

Get the scoop on upcoming music festivals and Mötley Crüe’s triumphant 2026 tour with the latest updates on Hinterland, Zootown, and the legendary Crüe.

A Festival Melting Pot: Hinterland Music Festival’s Eclectic Lineup

Music lovers, mark your calendars! The 11th Hinterland Music Festival is gearing up to light up St. Charles, Iowa, from July 30 to August 2. If you’ve ever craved a blend of pop, alternative, and indie vibes all rolled into one, this is your playground. The festival boasts an eye-popping lineup featuring headliners like KATSEYE, the enigmatic Lorde, the folk-favorites Mumford & Sons, and the sultry tones of Kali Uchis.

But don’t snooze on the undercard! You’ll find gems like Jessie Murph, Santigold, MUNA, and beabadoobee—artists who’ve been quietly revolutionizing their genres. The indie realm is further empowered by Geese, Wet Leg, and Suki Waterhouse, while longtime favorites the Format, CMAT, and Jane Remover round out the lineup with their signature sounds.

What’s particularly quirky about Hinterland is its “90 Degree Guarantee.” Yes, you read that right. If the temperature creeps above 90 degrees on any festival day, attendees can request a refund. That’s some serious commitment to comfort!

Tickets are selling fast, and if you’re in for the ride, make sure to grab yours early. Hinterland’s magic lies in its diverse sounds and the laid-back vibes of Iowa’s summer.

Montana’s Musical Gem: The Zootown Music Festival Returns

Next up on this musical journey takes us to the lush Missoula Fairgrounds in Montana, where the Zootown Music Festival will serenade fans on June 19-20. This intimate fest packs a powerful punch with headliners like The Lumineers, the iconic The Chicks, and the blues-rock fusion of the Tedeschi Trucks Band.

What’s special here? The Chicks haven’t played Montana for over two decades, and for fans, that’s a monumental return. Fun fact: their hit “Wide Open Spaces” was penned by Susan Gibson during her forestry studies at the University of Montana—a beautiful coming full circle moment for the band and the state.

More than 60% of Zootown’s lineup will be debuting in Montana, making it a fresh experience for local fans. Plus, the festival offers adventurous add-ons like biking, rafting, fishing, and river tubing excursions right before and after the music dives in. It’s a festival-meets-getaway vibe that you won’t want to miss.

Tickets officially go on sale November 21, so keep your eyes peeled and your hiking boots ready.

Mötley Crüe’s Triumphant Return: Carnival of Sins 2026 Tour

Now, let’s dive into the heavy metal realm. Brace yourself, Crüeheads! The legendary Mötley Crüe is bringing back the thunder with a 25th-anniversary celebration of their iconic Carnival of Sins tour. Dubbed The Return of the Carnival of Sins, this 2026 amphitheater tour kicks off July 17 just outside Pittsburgh.

The band promises a fresh yet nostalgic experience, saying this show is “for the Crüeheads who’ve been with us through it all and for the new Crüeheads who didn’t get to experience Carnival of Sins last time around.” The tour will feature opening acts from hard rock staples Tesla and Extreme, setting the stage for a night of pure rock adrenaline.

Adding to the excitement, Mötley Crüe just dropped a 40th-anniversary edition of their 1985 classic Theatre of Pain. This deluxe release includes a previously unreleased concert recording, rare demos, and a hefty 76-page hardcover book—perfect for die-hard fans and vinyl collectors alike.

Why These Festivals and Tours Matter

Between Hinterland’s genre-bending lineup, Zootown’s mountain magic, and Mötley Crüe’s legendary comeback, the summer music scene is shaping up to be unforgettable. These events highlight the evolving landscape of live music, balancing fresh indie voices with rock icons.

Whether you’re vibing at Hinterland, soaking in Montana’s natural beauty at Zootown, or headbanging with Mötley Crüe, there’s something for every kind of music enthusiast.

FAQ

• What makes Hinterland Music Festival unique?
  Hinterland offers an eclectic mix of pop, alternative, and indie artists combined with a unique "90 Degree Guarantee" refund policy if it gets too hot.
• When and where is the Zootown Music Festival held?
  It takes place June 19-20 at the Missoula Fairgrounds in Missoula, Montana.
• What is special about The Chicks’ performance at Zootown?
  They haven’t performed in Montana for over 20 years, and their famous song “Wide Open Spaces” was written by a Montana university student.
• What is Mötley Crüe’s 2026 tour about?
  It’s a 25th-anniversary celebration of their Carnival of Sins tour, featuring classic hits and new energy with opening acts Tesla and Extreme.
• What’s included in the 40th-anniversary edition of Theatre of Pain?
  It features a previously unreleased concert, rare demos, and a 76-page hardcover book.

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