Le Mars Accordion Festival Celebrates 22 Years

Annual event honors local accordionists Art Pahl and Peter Boe.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:59am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A minimalist, abstract illustration featuring black silhouettes of accordion players and instruments against a high-contrast red and white background, conveying the celebratory spirit of the local music festival.The annual Le Mars accordion festival celebrates the enduring legacy of local musical icons Art Pahl and Peter Boe.Le Mars Today

The 22nd annual Art Pahl-Peter Boe Accordion Festival is set to take place on May 3 in Le Mars, Iowa. The festival celebrates the legacies of local accordionists Art Pahl and Peter Boe, who were influential figures in the regional music scene.

Why it matters

The festival is a long-standing tradition that brings the community together to honor its musical heritage. Accordion music has deep roots in the Midwest, and events like this help preserve and promote the art form.

The details

The festival features live accordion performances, workshops, and other activities celebrating the instrument and the two accordionists it is named after. Art Pahl and Peter Boe were well-known figures in the Le Mars area, performing at local events and teaching the accordion to generations of students.

  • The 22nd annual Art Pahl-Peter Boe Accordion Festival will be held on May 3, 2026.
  • The festival has been an annual event in Le Mars since 2004.

The players

Art Pahl

A renowned local accordionist who helped popularize the instrument in the Le Mars area.

Peter Boe

Another influential accordionist from Le Mars who taught and performed in the community for many years.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The festival organizers are expecting a large turnout this year as the event celebrates its 22nd anniversary. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online or at the door.

The takeaway

The Art Pahl-Peter Boe Accordion Festival is a cherished tradition that keeps the musical heritage of Le Mars alive, honoring the legacies of two local accordion icons and providing a platform for the community to come together and celebrate this unique art form.