As the nation looks ahead to America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, Clear Lake is reflecting on moments when our local story became part of the American story.
One of the most enduring begins with music.
Since opening in 1934, the Surf Ballroom has welcomed generations of musicians and fans, turning a lakeside dance hall into a national landmark. From swing to rock and roll, the Surf became a place where American music lived, toured, and evolved — right here on the shores of Clear Lake.
1933 – America Finds Its Rhythm
In the depths of the Great Depression, music offered escape, connection, and hope. When the Surf Ballroom opened its doors, it quickly became a gathering place where people came together to dance, listen, and feel part of something bigger. The timing mattered — the Surf wasn’t just entertainment, it was relief, rhythm, and renewal.
1959 – “Not Fade Away”
On a winter night in 1959, the Surf Ballroom entered American music history. The concert remembered as “Not Fade Away” forever tied Clear Lake to a cultural turning point — one that continues to echo across generations and genres.
1994 – Restoring the Rhythm
By the early 1990s, the story turned toward preservation. In 1994, the Surf was purchased and restored, launching a new era of stewardship. Restoring the Rhythm ensured the ballroom remained not just a memory, but a living, breathing venue — ready for future audiences.
2009–2021 – Honoring the Legacy
National recognition followed. Between 2009 and 2021, the Surf earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places and was recognized as a Rock and Roll landmark — affirming that Clear Lake’s music story mattered far beyond Iowa.
2022 – Investing in the Future
Clear Lake doubled down on its commitment to music and place. In 2022, more than $4.7 million in public funding was secured to enhance the Surf District and visitor experience, positioning the area not as a museum — but as an active cultural destination.
2025 – Music Experience Center
That investment comes to life in 2025 with the opening of the Music Experience Center. Through immersive exhibits, educational spaces, and new visitor experiences, the Surf Ballroom story expands — connecting past, present, and future in powerful new ways.
As America turns 250, Clear Lake’s story is one of continuity. From finding its rhythm during hard times to preserving its legacy and investing in what’s next, this is a place where music, community, and history continue to play on.