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Championing Community at One of Arizona's Top Music Festivals

In addition to being the most populated city in the Southwest, Phoenix’s moderate year-round temperature and an average of 300 days with sun, make it an ideal destination for travelers. Arizona’s state capital was established in 1871 and is currently the region's center for culture, art, athletics, and community events. Visitors can partake in various activities including a visit to the Phoenix Art Museum, playing a round of golf at one of the more than 200 local courses, or mountain biking in the Sonoran Desert.

 

The McDowell Mountain Music Festival (M3F) has been one of the premier music events in Arizona for the past 14 years. It’s an all-ages festival, and event organizers expect around 16,000 attendees at the three-day event. The festival features a wide variety of music acts that range from hip hop groups to jam bands. Attendees can also watch artisans producing artwork on location. Kids will get the opportunity to play in the Kids Zone, which features music-themed activities and games. M3F is committed to helping the community, and this year is supporting the Phoenix Children’s Hospital Foundation and UMOM New Day Center. ResortsandLodges.com got the opportunity to interview the festival organizers, to talk about this unique music festival.

 

RAL: How long has the event been running?

M3F: M3F has been promoting community, culture, and charity since it began. We'll celebrate our 14th festival this March 3-5 at Hance Park in Downtown Phoenix.

 

RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?

M3F: We host an average of 16,000 music fans over the course of three days.

 

RAL: What is the typical demographic makeup of the event?

M3F: Our demographic varies as widely as our music, from jam bands and indie pop rock to hip hop and EDM (electronic dance music). We attract a varied audience of young adults, families, couples, and children.

 

RAL: What makes this event unique?

M3F: As a 100% non-profit festival, three C’s are what truly make us unique – the focus of promoting community, culture, and charity. M3F offers a great opportunity to experience the spirit cultivated when people join to enjoy themselves and help the community.

 

RAL: What activities will attendees encounter?

M3F: In addition to featuring 28 bands across two stages, you’ll also find:

  • Drum Circle – Come join in on an epic drum circle, conducted by none other than Frank Thompson from AZ Rhythm Connection. No drum? No problem! Frank will take care of it all. Get your beat on Saturday from 3:30pm to 4:00pm and 5:00pm to 5:30pm, and on Sunday from 3:00pm to 3:30pm and 6:00pm to 6:30pm.

  • Live Art – Check out local AZ artists as they paint to the beat of the music. See something you love? Certain pieces will be auctioned off each night.

  • Kid Zone - M3F’s Kid Zone is sure to be the family friendly experience you’ve been searching for in a festival. With activities revolving around music, arts & crafts, and more. It’s the perfect place for families to escape the crowds. The best part of it all? Kids 10 and under get in free to the festival with parents!

 

RAL: Will there be any guest appearances?

M3F: This year M3F brings top headliners to the Arizona music scene such as Flume, The Shins, Chromeo, and Grouplove. The lineup features numerous national artists including Gov’t Mule, Turkuaz, and Bob Moses. As a grassroots, Arizona-based festival, M3F doesn’t forget the local talent like Bear Ghost, CooBee Coo, Upsahl, and RUCA. For a full line-up, set schedule, and additional information, visit www.mmmf.com.

 

RAL: What dining options will attendees encounter?

M3F: No music festival is complete without awesome grub, beer, and cocktails. From mouth-watering local Phoenix food trucks to thirst quenching beverage vendors, we’re sure you’ll find something to hit the spot.

 

RAL: What will the overall environment be like?

M3F: Celebrating with M3F in gorgeous March weather will help you sing away the blues under sunny Arizona, 80-degree average weather. Bring an umbrella, sunscreen, and sunglasses, and we’ll provide the music, food, and entertainment.

 

RAL: Are there any lodging specials that are set up specifically for the event?

M3F: M3F’s official hotel partner is the Hilton Garden Inn, minutes away from the festival grounds. Count on a memorable stay in a historic yet modern atmosphere. Built in 1932, the hotel features original Art Deco design and a grand lobby with restored columns and marble touches.

 

RAL: Does this drive business to your local economy?

M3F: M3F is hosted in Downtown Phoenix, Arizona. Every year, an average of 16,000 attendees flock to the area to celebrate music, arts, and charity. M3F partners with downtown associations and businesses to both promote and leverage their services for a successful event, including the City of Phoenix and Roosevelt Row.

 

RAL: Does the event support a special cause in the community?

M3F: In a commitment to giving back, M3F has adopted a 3 C’s belief – community, culture, and charity. These 3 C’s fuel the festival’s underlying dedication to local Arizona. In this spirit, all of the proceeds from the festival benefit two local, family-based, non-profits: Phoenix Children’s Hospital Foundation and UMOM New Day Center.

 

RAL: Why should people come to your event?

M3F: To remain true to its eclectic roots while evolving, M3F attracts music festival goers who are interested in a diverse variety of genres by bringing unexpected sound pairings to the Valley.

 

For more information about the McDowell Mountain Music Festival, please visit the event website.