The Amana Colonies were alive with the sound of brass this June as the 2025 Wurst Brass Festival brought together some of the Midwest’s finest British-style brass bands for a weekend packed with music, camaraderie, and just the right amount of German flair. From the high-energy Friday night “Wurst Friday” march competition to the all-day Saturday showcase, the festival was a hit with both performers and audiences.
Wurst Friday Competition Results
The competitive march music showdown on Friday night saw top-tier bands battling it out across three performance venues in the Amanas. When the brass dust settled, the results were as follows:
1st Place: Fountain City Brass Band — 191.9
2nd Place: Illinois Brass Band — 172.4
3rd Place: Iowa Brass — 169.8
Saturday: A Festival of Sound
On Saturday, the focus shifted from competition to celebration, with each band showcasing themed sets that ranged from classical and cinematic to Celtic and contemporary. The variety, precision, and pure entertainment value made for an unforgettable day. The full lineup of pieces performed by each group is available here:
View Saturday’s Program
Audience members were given the power to vote for their favorite performances in a few lighthearted, but fiercely contested, categories:
- Wurst Small Group of the Day: College Street Brass Band
- Wurst Solo or Duet of the Day: Stuart Wallace of Sheldon Theatre Brass Band wowed the crowd with his take on “Queen of the Night Aria”
- Wurst Entertaining Group of the Day: Iowa Brass brought both the chops and the charm
- Wurst Overall Performing Group of the Day: Fountain City Brass Band once again showed why they’re a force to be reckoned with
A Growing Tradition
Now in its latest and largest edition yet, the Wurst Brass Festival continues to gain momentum as a destination event for both brass band enthusiasts and the casually curious. With bands coming from across state lines, audience voting features that bring fans into the action, and bratwurst sizzling just steps away from the stage, it’s no wonder the festival is becoming a must-play and must-attend experience.
Whether you came for the music, the community, or just a great reason to be in the Amanas in June, the 2025 Wurst Brass Festival delivered. Plans are already in motion for an even bigger 2026. Get ready, next year’s going to be the wurst one yet. 
