Get ready for a thrilling comeback story! Denver's beloved indie music festival, The UMS, is rising from the ashes and relocating to a new, exciting neighborhood. But here's where it gets controversial...
The festival's organizers, Two Parts, have teamed up with a powerful new partner, the RiNo Business Improvement District (BID), to bring this musical extravaganza back to life. With a significant financial investment and a fresh location, The UMS is set to make a grand return this summer, and we can't wait to see what's in store!
Previously nestled in the heart of South Broadway, The UMS is now gearing up to take over the vibrant River North Art District from July 24th to 26th. Keanan Stoner, the owner of Two Parts, revealed that this move marks a new chapter for the festival, one that promises an even brighter future.
And this is the part most people miss... The RiNo BID isn't just about the music. Terry Madeksza, the executive director, sees The UMS as an economic powerhouse that will drive business and showcase the cultural offerings of RiNo. With an annual investment of $250,000 for title sponsorship and a 50% stake valued at $1 million, the BID is committed to making this festival a success.
But why the sudden change of heart? Madeksza believes that The UMS can be a game-changer for local businesses, from breweries to boutiques. By attracting visitors and involving the community, the festival can provide a much-needed boost to the area's economy while celebrating the arts.
For those who are curious, BIDs are unique partnerships between private and public entities, where local businesses contribute funds to enhance their area. In this case, the RiNo BID is taking a bold step to ensure The UMS thrives and becomes a signature event for the district.
The festival's format remains largely unchanged, with an estimated 10,000 music enthusiasts and hundreds of local and regional bands gracing multiple stages. Past performances have featured iconic Denver acts like Nathaniel Rateliff (pre-Night Sweats) and DeVotchKa, alongside national headliners such as Blonde Redhead and Lord Huron.
So, what does this mean for South Broadway? Stoner admits he didn't conduct an impact report during The UMS' tenure there, but he's eager to explore the potential of RiNo. With its diverse music venues, from the intimate Larimer Lounge to the grand Mission Ballroom, RiNo offers a unique opportunity to engage visitors and showcase the city's vibrant music scene.
Those who bid farewell to The UMS last year might be pleasantly surprised by its swift return. Stoner assures us that this wasn't part of some master plan; it was a genuine effort to keep the festival alive. When the RiNo BID approached them, it sparked a conversation that led to a realization: finances are crucial, but they're not the only factor.
As we eagerly await the return of The UMS, we can't help but wonder: What impact will this festival have on RiNo? Will it become the signature event the district needs? And most importantly, will it live up to the legacy of its South Broadway days? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: Denver's music scene is about to get even more exciting!
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