Historic Iowa Music Venue Prepares to Open New Addition

Going to see a show at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, is like stepping back in time. The wooden dance floor has seen its share of artists. If a venue could talk, think of the stories told inside the Surf Ballroom.

Of course, the venue gained worldwide notoriety due to an unspeakable tragedy. February 3rd, 1959. A day that would be remembered as 'The Day the Music Died.' A plane crash claimed the lives of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and the Big Bopper shortly after they had played a show at Surf. But the old ballroom is so much more than one sad night in rock and roll history.

The Surf Ballroom continues to book concerts and dances. Artists coming to Clear Lake yet this year include The Robert Cray Band, Marty Stuart, and Brothers Osborne, according to the Des Moines Register. Plus, there are free shows on Wednesday nights, and dance lessons are held regularly!

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While the Surf Ballroom is steeped in history, a brand new venue is scheduled to open next door. The Register reports that just to the west of the ballroom is the Music Enrichment Center. The two-story building will serve as another event area and a place for tourists to visit.

The Register reports the new building will include a ticket office, gift shop, music lessons, conference space, and a catering kitchen. It will also include exhibit space with never-before-seen artifacts from rock and roll history.

According to the Register, the new Music Enrichment Center will open with a celebration from September 4th through the 7th, in conjunction with Buddy Holly's birthday.