Iowa Ballrooms
At one time Iowa had more Ballrooms per capita than any other state in the nation. From small rural areas to the big cities their presence fueled the Jazz and Big Band era and played a significant role in the explosion of Rock and Roll in the Late 50's and during the 60's. Whether it was The Highland Palace at Riverside, the Val Air in Des Moines, the Surf at Clear Lake, the Roof Garden at Okoboji, the Cobblestone in Storm Lake or one of the more than 200 others, they all were on the circuit that the entertainers followed. The Ballrooms created a social setting that provided a meeting place for many couples and atmosphere of fun and relaxation after a hard weeks work. Dances were held on weeknights, also, with many of the ballrooms offering incentives such as bank nights where cash prizes were given to lucky persons in attendance.
Due to the number of these venues available for live music, they provided a place where the garage bands of the Rock and Roll era to perform live for pay! They also provided exposure for many of them to go on to national recording contracts and appearances on such programs as "American Bandstand", "Where the Action Is" and others. They also provided Iowa Teens for a chance to see performers that those in many other states only listened to on records or were able to see on TV. What a time it was and how lucky we were! Today only a handful of ballrooms are left. The Iowa Rock'N Roll Music Association produces events at those still in existence, whenever possible. Check our events page for an event coming to one near you. To view pictures from some of the events check out the
photo gallery on our website.
