On September 21, in a sea of black t-shirts and masked, jumpsuit-adorned fans, Water Works Park in Des Moines, Iowa, played host to one of the most anticipated metal events of the year: Knotfest Iowa. The festival celebrated the 25th anniversary of iconic band Slipknot, in the place where it all began. Attendees were treated to an unforgettable day of music, food, Slipknot history, and electrifying performances, despite the sweltering heat and eventual weather challenges.

The day began under a blazing sun, with hot weather anticipated for most of the day. Amidst soaring temperatures, very thankful festival-goers navigated the heat with strategically placed water stations scattered throughout the venue, ensuring everyone could stay hydrated. For those who splurged on VIP experiences, the festival offered exclusive perks, including shaded areas, comfortable seating, an arcade, premium drinks and food, and exclusive merch. There was also an opportunity for meet-and-greets with select artists, creating cherished memories for fans who had the chance to connect with their idols. Food was plentiful, with a variety of vendors catering to every palate. From classic festival fare like burgers and fries to gourmet options like vegan bowls and artisanal pizza, there was something for everyone, as fans shared meals and experiences throughout the day. Additionally, the Slipknot Museum offered fans a unique glimpse into the band’s history, featuring memorabilia, costumes, iconic masks, and exhibits that celebrated the band’s journey over the past quarter-century. Many attendees took the time to explore this immersive experience, deepening their appreciation for the iconic group.

The festival kicked off on the main stage with Holy Wars, the first of three female fronted bands of the day and a diverse range of acts that catered to every metal sub-genre, including an influx of hardcore bands that are making their presence felt across the scene. With veteran fan favorites like Hatebreed and a reunited Poison The Well, to the next generation of bands like Zulu, Spine, Dose, Dying Wish, and Knocked Loose leading the continued charge. It was a fantastic lineup with something for everyone, also including Vended, Swollen Teeth, Twin Temple, Gwar, and Rammstein front man Till Lindemann, bringing his solo project to the main stage. Metal gate-keeping be damned.

As the afternoon turned into early evening, with an imminent storm approaching the festival grounds, Knotfest organizers made the tough decision to start moving up set times, in hopes that every act would get to take the stage. They made the right call.

An hour earlier than originally anticipated, the lights illuminating the crowd of thousands looking on and surrounding the Knotfest mainstage went down, smoke filled the air across the stage, and Gary Wright’s song “Dream Weaver” blared over the PA system. Lightning flashed across the sky in the distance, showcasing the imminent storm approaching from the West. As the introductory song came to a close, DJ Sid Wilson took his spot behind the turntables, and “742617000027” began, as the other eight members of Slipknot found their rightful spots; not only on stage, but in their rightful home of Des Moines, Iowa. Where it all began. A homecoming celebration of epic proportions.

“The whole thing I think is sic(k).” The energy was electric, but not because of the incoming lightning. A 25th Anniversary set made up of playing the entirety of their debut self-titled album, including hidden tracks, ignited the crowd, and as if almost on demand, the heavy rains began to fall. Ripping through “Eyeless” and “Wait and Bleed,” the band, in my opinion, has (maybe) never sounded better.

Vocalist Corey Taylor announced to the crowd that they would “not hear a song written after 1999,” and we all went along on a journey listening to Slipknot perform the thing that made them Slipknot. The thing they created as Iowans. Now, here they were, on their silver anniversary, a long road paved in tragedy and pain and unfathomable successes, giving their hometown everything they had. It was a surreal scene. One I, as I’m sure everyone else in attendance would agree, will be forever grateful to have witnessed. Thank you, Maggots. Thank you, Slipknot.

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