Denverâs Underground Music Showcase to End in 2025
The long-standing Underground Music Showcase in Denver will be coming to an end after its 2025 event due to a decline in national music festivals across the country.
Despite strong ticket sales and capacity crowds, the festival’s organizers, nonprofit producer Youth on Record and co-owner Two Parts, have decided to conclude the event. Youth on Record’s executive director, Jami Duffy, expressed the importance of giving the festival a proper farewell to honor its cultural legacy.
The 25th UMS, set to take place from July 25 to July 27, will feature over 200 local and national independent acts at various venues along South Broadway in the Baker neighborhood. Artists such as All Them Witches, Flyna Boss, DeVotchKa, and others will be part of the lineup.
Over the years, The UMS has hosted thousands of performances, generated millions of dollars in economic impact, and introduced countless music enthusiasts to both local and national talent. Despite its success, the festival’s $1.4 million budget has become unsustainable for Youth on Record, which has a $2.2 million budget for the upcoming year.
Factors such as rising production costs, security expenses, and declining ticket sales have contributed to the decision to end the event. Duffy pointed out a trend of music festivals being canceled nationwide, including well-known events like Bonnaroo, Coachella, and Burning Man.
DeVotchKa, a world-touring act and one of the headliners for this year’s UMS, reflected on the festival’s impact on Denver’s music scene and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of its final edition.
Founded in 2001 by former Denver Post reporter John Moore, The UMS has evolved over the years under different management, with a focus on artist care, inclusivity, and community engagement. The festival has played a significant role in shaping Denver’s music landscape and supporting emerging artists.
While the decision to end The UMS marks the end of an era, Duffy hopes that important conversations about music, sustainability, and cultural support will continue during this year’s event and the accompanying Get Loud Music Summit.
For more information on this year’s UMS lineup and tickets, visit undergroundmusicshowcase.com.
