Each year, Alternating Currents celebrates the creativity of the Quad Cities through music, film, comedy, visual art and interactive experiences across downtown Davenport, Bettendorf and Rock Island. As a free, bi-state, multi-city festival, it connects communities across the Quad Cities while encouraging thousands of people to discover artists, explore local businesses and experience the Quad Cities in new ways.

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📅 August 13–16, 2026

Downtown Davenport, IA • Downtown Bettendorf, IA • Downtown Rock Island, IL

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Admission is always free.

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Alternating Currents was built on the idea that arts and culture should feel open, exciting and accessible to everyone.

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Each year, the festival brings live music, film, comedy, visual art and interactive experiences to downtown Davenport, Bettendorf and Rock Island. Thousands of people discover new artists, explore local businesses and experience the Quad Cities in new ways.

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Keeping the festival free is central to that mission. Free admission welcomes everyone, encourages discovery and ensures that arts and culture remain accessible to the entire community.

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Friends of AC helps sustain that commitment today while investing in the festival's future.

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Your support helps:

• Support artist stipends and creative programming

• Maintain free and accessible festival experiences

• Activate independent venues and public spaces

• Strengthen arts and culture across the Quad Cities​

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Every contribution, whether it's $5 or $500, helps support the artists, energy and experiences that define Alternating Currents.