Sioux City, Iowa – Over 1,600 students will perform at the 2025 STARFEST marching band competition on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Elwood Olsen Stadium on the campus of Morningside University, located at 3201 Peters Avenue.
Twenty-one regional marching bands from Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota are scheduled to participate in the 27th STARFEST marching band competition hosted by the Sioux City North High School band. Participating bands will be judged on music performance, music general effect and marching execution. Percussion and color guard will also be judged in separate categories.
A special award will be presented to one of Iowa’s most influential music educators during the event.
Sponsored by parent-led group, North Stars Parent, Inc., STARFEST is the largest fundraiser for the North High School band.
Admission to STARFEST is $15 for adults; $10 for students, seniors, and military; and free for children ages five and under. Gates open at 10:45 a.m. Competitions will take place throughout the day, starting at 11:45 a.m. Final competitions begin at 6:30 p.m. and conclude with an award presentation at 9:40 p.m.
Concessions will be available for purchase on site. Free parking is available near the stadium. Travel on some roads around the stadium will be limited. Access to the stadium parking lot is available from Morningside Avenue at Peters or Vine avenues.
Additional event information is available at facebook.com/siouxcitynorthband.