Winter Dance Party
Each year, the Surf Ballroom hosts the Winter Dance Party — a three-day live music event with bands and music from the 50s. It’s an experience that’ll keep you coming back year after year!
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2026 Winter Dance Party at the Surf Ballroom
Wednesday, January 28 - Tickets Available
A Hard Day’s Night will present an authentic tribute to the 1959 Winter Dance Party, its music and artists. This quartet has been entertaining fans across the country with all the classics. Their show features the songs and musical stylings of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper.
Doors: 6:30 pm
Thursday, January 29 - Tickets Available
Dance Lessons
Fifties-style dance lessons hosted by instructor Amy Eckard and friends. For singles and couples alike. Open to the general public.
Time: 9 am
Shadows Over Clear Lake: The Tragic Tale of the 1959 Winter Dance Party
Author Tommy Canale brings history to life with his new book, Shadows Over Clear Lake: The Tragic Tale of the 1959 Winter Dance Party. Through eyewitness accounts, historical details, and in-depth research about the fateful flight of February 3, 1959, Canale presents the music, the stars and the cultural shockwaves that shaped the future of American rock ‘n’ roll. This event includes a copy of the book, narrated tour of the memorial site (transportation provided), and a continental brunch buffet.
Time: 10:30 am
Fox House Tours
Located across the street from the Surf Ballroom stands a lovingly restored vintage home built in 1948 by Carl J. Fox, the original owner/manager of the Surf Ballroom. The home features many unique furnishings and characteristics. Much like the Surf, it is as though time stood still in the home – many artifacts having remained in the Fox family home through the years, giving visitors a glimpse of life in the 1940s and 50s. Open to the general public.
Day #1 WDP Show
Jay & the Americans: One of the most enduring vocal groups to emerge from the 1960s, known for their unforgettable hits and smooth harmonies. With a blend of old-school charm and modern energy, the group continues to captivate fans of all ages.
Austin Allsup: Continuing the family musical legacy started by his father, Tommy Allsup – who played guitar with Buddy Holly on the 1959 Winter Dance Party Tour and was a regular at the Surf Ballroom himself – Allsup is an alum of NBC’s “The Voice,” and has cultivated his own gritty style as an original artist.
Richie Lee & the Fabulous 50s: This show takes you back to the roots of rock ‘n’ roll history! Iowa-grown Richie Lee started performing at a young age, and over the years has shared the stage with many rock ‘n’ roll greats. The band stays true to the sounds of the original songs and their artists, including Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, Elvis Presley, and many more.
Doors: 6:30 pm – Buy Tickets Now
Friday, January 30 - Tickets Available
Shadows Over Clear Lake: The Tragic Tale of the 1959 Winter Dance Party
Author Tommy Canale brings history to life with his new book, Shadows Over Clear Lake: The Tragic Tale of the 1959 Winter Dance Party. Through eyewitness accounts, historical details, and in-depth research about the fateful flight of February 3, 1959, Canale presents the music, the stars and the cultural shockwaves that shaped the future of American rock ‘n’ roll. This event includes a copy of the book, narrated tour of the memorial site (transportation provided), and a continental brunch buffet.
Time: 10:30 am
Fox House Tours
Located across the street from the Surf Ballroom stands a lovingly restored vintage home built in 1948 by Carl J. Fox, the original owner/manager of the Surf Ballroom. The home features many unique furnishings and characteristics. Much like the Surf, it is as though time stood still in the home – many artifacts having remained in the Fox family home through the years, giving visitors a glimpse of life in the 1940s and 50s. Open to the general public.
Vow renewals & wedding ceremony
Rock ‘n’ roll fans may get married or renew their vows at the legendary Surf Ballroom! Contact Denni Sue at ericksn1@cltel.net to register.
Time: 1:30 pm
Day #2 WDP Show
Costume contest: Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best period clothing/costumes as we take a trip back in time when malt shops were the hangout and sock hops were all the rage.Tonight we’ll have a costume contest with prizes for top votes. So don’t forget your saddle shoes!
Dance contest: Traditional dance contest will be held during intermission. Participants should sign up at the information booth in the lobby. Winners get prizes!
The Killer Vees are known in the music business as the “rhythm section to the stars!” Jeff and Tommy Vee have performed and toured with Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis, Paul McCartney, and of course their father, Bobby Vee. Rounding out the group these days – and arguably the star of the show – is Bobby Vee’s grandson, Bennett Vee, on lead guitar.
Chris Montez song, “Let’s Dance,” hit the top ten in 1962, and he began touring with Sam Cooke, The Platters and Smokey Robinson. In 1963, while in Liverpool with Tommy Roe, his opening act was a new English group, The Beatles. The rhythm and blues of the early 50s black and Hispanic musicians influenced Montez, and his well-known hits and heritage are part of the Ritchie Valens legacy.
Brian Hyland’s journey through music is nothing short of legendary. At the tender age of 16, he skyrocketed to stardom with his infectious hit, “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini.” Subsequent hits like “Sealed with a Kiss,” and “Lonely Teardrops” solidified his status as a household name. Brian continues to grace stages and studios with his timeless melodies.
The Drifters are one of music’s most iconic vocal groups. With a catalog of classics like “Under the Boardwalk,” “Save the Last Dance for Me,” and “Up on the Roof,” The Drifters continue to captivate audiences around the world. This high-energy show is packed with the slick choreography, smooth harmonies, and timeless tunes that have made them legends.
The Whitesidewalls Rock ‘n’ Roll Revue brings families together around 50’s and 60’s music. New audiences are discovering the melodic, harmonious and very danceable music of this era. The band throws down an authentic musical experience and a thoroughly entertaining show.
The Holy Rocka Rollaz are Minnesota’s own fantastic 50s rock ‘n’ roll band. They bring classic early rock ‘n’ roll hits and the rockabilly of Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, Johnny Cash played just the way those legends did. This is a band that truly brings the sound, the look, the memories, and nostalgia of one of America’s most treasured eras.
Doors: 6:30 pm – Buy Tickets Now
Saturday, January 31 - Tickets Available
Ritchie Valens Family Luncheon
Enjoy lunch with members of the Valens family and great live music. Ritchie Valens memorabilia will be on display and merchandise will be available for purchase. Advance reservations required. Buffet lunch and live music by Richie Lee.
Time: 11 am
Fox House Tours
Located across the street from the Surf Ballroom stands a lovingly restored vintage home built in 1948 by Carl J. Fox, the original owner/manager of the Surf Ballroom. The home features many unique furnishings and characteristics. Much like the Surf, it is as though time stood still in the home – many artifacts having remained in the Fox family home through the years, giving visitors a glimpse of life in the 1940s and 50s. Open to the general public.
Shadows Over Clear Lake: The Tragic Tale of the 1959 Winter Dance Party
Author Tommy Canale brings history to life with his new book, Shadows Over Clear Lake: The Tragic Tale of the 1959 Winter Dance Party. Through eyewitness accounts, historical details, and in-depth research about the fateful flight of February 3, 1959, Canale presents the music, the stars and the cultural shockwaves that shaped the future of American rock ‘n’ roll. This event includes a copy of the book, narrated tour of the memorial site (transportation provided), and a light buffet.
Time: 2:30
Day #3 WDP Show
Billy F. Gibbons and the BFGs: Headlining the entire event is legendary rock guitar player Billy F. Gibbons of ZZ Top fame. Gibbons is unquestionably one of the finest blues-rock guitar players to ever emerge. Raised in Houston, Texas, Gibbons grew up in a home that favored both classical and country sounds, but upon discovering Elvis Presley via an appearance on “The Ed Sullivan Show,” Gibbons became transfixed by rock ‘n’ roll. The group brings a sound that’s equal parts gritty blues, rock ‘n’ roll swagger, and southern charm.
Slim Jim Phantom: As the legendary drummer for the Stray Cats, Slim Jim Phantom, alongside bandmates Brian Setzer and Lee Rocker, spearheaded the neo-rockabilly movement of the early 80s. With a love for 50s rock ‘n’ roll and the hard-edged rockabilly sound, Slim Jim Phantom continues to inspire and excite audiences worldwide with a sound, style, and image that remain as fresh today as it ever was. The coolest drummer in rock ‘n’ roll, Phantom’s influence is still clearly felt on today’s music scene with countless rockabilly drummers imitating his pioneering stand-up style.
The Midnight Cowgirls: Get ready to saddle up and ride into a rockin’ musical adventure!! Poised to revolutionize the music scene with their electrifying blend of country, new wave, post-punk, and rockabilly, the group’s fresh sound defies genre conventions, seamlessly blending twangy guitars with pulsating bass lines and driving rhythms.
Albert Lee is one of the most respected and renowned guitarists in music history. The British-born country-rock artist has worked with The Everly Brothers, Eric Clapton, Emmylou Harris and The Crickets over his long and illustrious career. With a reputation as one of the fastest guitar players in the business, he recorded a number of solo albums, and won a Grammy in 2002 for his contribution on ‘Foggy Mountain Breakdown.’ He continues to tour today, and plays his signature Ernie Ball Music Man Guitar.
Linda Gail Lewis was born a Louisiana girl, now resides in Austin, Texas, and carries on her rock ‘n’ roll legacy as little sister to musical legend and genius, Jerry Lee Lewis. Immersed in the sounds of pumping piano and country from a young age, she developed an unwavering passion for music. She has maintained her fervor for performing live, captivating audiences globally with her high-energy shows.
Guitarist, producer and composer Danny B. Harvey has played and recorded with such great artists as Levi Dexter, Tim Polecat, Johnny Ramone, Nancy Sinatra, Lemmy Kilmister, Lee Rocker, Slim Jim Phantom and Wanda Jackson. Harvey performs with his wife Annie Marie Lewis, who is none other than the niece of the music icon Jerry Lee Lewis, daughter of Linda Gail Lewis, and cousin of Mickey Gilley. Annie has the genealogy, the roots, and the direct blood connection to the first family of rock ‘n’ roll!
Doors: 6:30 – Buy Tickets Now
Sunday, February 1 - Tickets Available
Through Their Eyes: 1959 WDP Memories
with author Tommy Canale and music by Holy Rocka Rollaz and Sherry Holley
This is the day to time-travel back to the 1950s, an innocent time before the tragic loss, and see the Surf Ballroom and the Winter Dance Party through the eyes of people who were there that night! This one-of-a-kind evening is hosted by Tommy Canale, author of Shadows Over Clear Lake: The Tragic Tale of the 1959 Winter Dance Party. Guests will step into the stories and memories of February 1959. What was it like to be a teenager, and what did parents think of the music? Hear about the three stars’ childhood upbringings, personal stories from family and friends, their talents and performances and discovery on the road to superstardom – and the 1959 Winter Dance Party. Special guests include members of the Valens family, Sherry Holley (Buddy’s niece) and musical performance by The Holy Rocka Rollaz. “Through Their Eyes” offers audiences the opportunity to hear rare, first-hand perspectives in the very venue where history unfolded — the legendary Surf Ballroom.
Doors: 6:30 pm
Monday, February 2 - Tickets Available
John Mueller’s Winter Dance Party®
The celebration at the Surf isn’t complete without John Mueller’s Winter Dance Party®, the official tribute to Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and The Big Bopper. Founded in 1999 on the 40th anniversary of the original tour, this high-energy show faithfully recreates the magic and innocence of rock ‘n’ roll’s early days. With performances inspired by the legendary trio and their peers, the tribute has earned accolades from the families of Holly, Valens, and Richardson. Returning once again to the Surf, their award-winning and critically-acclaimed show is a favorite of loyal attendees.
Doors: 6:30 pm
The Night the Music Lived On
In the early months of 1959, rock ‘n’ roll was still a revolution in motion. The sound was young, wild, and full of promise — a blend of rhythm and blues, country, and teenage spirit that was sweeping across America. To keep the momentum going, Buddy Holly’s management organized the Winter Dance Party, a 24-day tour meant to bring live rock ‘n’ roll to small-town ballrooms and theaters throughout the Midwest.
The lineup was extraordinary: Buddy Holly, fresh from hits like “That’ll Be the Day” and “Peggy Sue,” Ritchie Valens, whose “La Bamba” was climbing the charts, J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson, whose personality was as big as his hit “Chantilly Lace,” and Dion and the Belmonts, one of the most popular vocal groups of the era.
But the tour’s schedule was grueling — 24 shows in as many days, across miles of frozen Midwest highways. The musicians rode in old school buses that broke down repeatedly in subzero temperatures. The heating rarely worked, and at one point, drummer Carl Bunch was hospitalized for frostbite. Despite the hardships, the music never stopped. Each night, the performers lifted spirits, filling dance halls with laughter and movement even as winter howled outside.
February 2, 1959: A Night at the Surf
Clear Lake, Iowa, wasn’t originally part of the tour. But when a performance in nearby Wisconsin was canceled, the tour’s organizers reached out to Carroll Anderson, manager of the Surf Ballroom, to fill the open date. Anderson said yes, and the concert was booked for Monday, February 2, 1959.
That evening, as snowflakes fell outside, cars filled the lot along North Shore Drive and fans streamed into the Surf Ballroom. Over a thousand people packed inside — teenagers in their Sunday best, couples holding hands, and local families eager to see the rising stars of the new musical era. The air was electric, the wooden dance floor polished and ready, the neon palm trees glowing along the walls.
Backstage, the atmosphere was lively. Radio DJ Bob Hale of KRIB was emceeing, and Buddy Holly joked with his bandmates — Waylon Jennings on bass and Tommy Allsup on guitar. Ritchie Valens, only 17, was nervous but thrilled, practicing his moves and chatting with fans who had gathered near the dressing rooms for autographs. The Big Bopper, recovering from the flu, was in good spirits, chatting and laughing with everyone he met.
As the lights dimmed, the show began. Local band The Shadows opened the night before Dion and the Belmonts took the stage with tight harmonies and crowd favorites like “I Wonder Why.” Ritchie Valens followed with an energetic set — the crowd erupted when he played “La Bamba” and “Donna.” The Big Bopper’s booming personality filled the room as he sang “Chantilly Lace,” delighting the audience with his deep laugh and playful banter.
Then came Buddy Holly, the headliner, his Fender Stratocaster gleaming under the stage lights. With his trademark glasses and smooth voice, he tore through hits like “Peggy Sue,” “Heartbeat,” and “Oh, Boy!” The crowd danced, clapped, and sang along. For a few shining hours, the Surf Ballroom was the center of the rock ‘n’ roll universe.
Few in attendance could have imagined that this joyous performance would be their last.
The Decision to Fly
After the show ended, around midnight, the musicians loaded their equipment onto the tour bus for the next stop in Moorhead, Minnesota — nearly 400 miles away. The bus’s heater had failed again, and the cold was bitter. Buddy Holly, frustrated with the travel conditions, decided to charter a small plane to get to the next city early, rest, and do laundry before the next show.
He arranged for a Beechcraft Bonanza out of the Mason City Municipal Airport, piloted by Roger Peterson, a 21-year-old local pilot who was familiar with the area but inexperienced with the night’s deteriorating weather conditions. The plane had three passenger seats.
There are conflicting accounts of the night regarding who was supposed to be on the plane, but most agree on the following: Dion opted out after being told the flight would cost $36 each, leaving Holly’s current band mates Waylon Jennings and Tommy Allsup as the first people asked that agreed to share the flight.
Tommy Allsup had been more reluctant to give up his seat to a pleading Ritchie Valens, in part because he had a registered letter in Fargo to pick up.
A friendly coin toss determined who would go. Ritchie Valens won his seat over guitarist Tommy Allsup; The Big Bopper, sick with the flu, asked Waylon Jennings to give up his place. As they left the Surf Ballroom, Holly playfully teased Jennings, saying, “I hope your ol’ bus freezes up.” Jennings replied jokingly, “Well, I hope your ol’ plane crashes.” It was a lighthearted exchange that Jennings would later say haunted him for the rest of his life.
The Crash
The musicians were driven to the Mason City airport in Surf manager Carroll Anderson’s station wagon shortly after midnight, arriving around 12:30 a.m. on February 3, 1959. Snow was still falling lightly, and winds were picking up. After filing a flight plan for Fargo, North Dakota, pilot Roger Peterson received weather information but was not aware that conditions were worsening rapidly — visibility dropping and light snow becoming a full storm front.
At 12:55 a.m., the plane took off from runway 17. Observers saw its lights climb into the dark sky and then disappear. The flight was expected to take less than two hours. When radio contact was lost and the plane failed to arrive, concern grew.
Later that morning, around 9:35 a.m., Dwyer Flying Service owner Bob Dwyer flew out to search for the missing aircraft. Within minutes, he spotted the wreckage in a snow-covered cornfield about six miles northwest of the airport. It was later determined that shortly after takeoff, the plane took a precipitous downward turn, and one wing struck the ground as the plane plowed into a cornfield at 170 miles per hour. The plane cartwheeled, strewing wreckage over 300 yards of snow-covered field, finally coming to rest against a barbed wire fence.
All four occupants — Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, The Big Bopper, and Roger Peterson — had been killed instantly upon impact.
The news spread quickly across the country. Radio stations interrupted their broadcasts; fans and fellow musicians were stunned. The loss was devastating — three of the brightest young stars in American music, gone in an instant. Buddy Holly was 22, Ritchie Valens just 17, The Big Bopper 28.
A mystery still surrounds what went wrong that night. A Civil Aeronautics Board report stated that Peterson experienced dangerous complications during flight; spatial disorientation from the poor weather conditions, combined with misinterpretation of instrument readings aboard the Beechcraft Bonanza that differed from the more common instruments he had been trained on could have been at fault. The Board also concluded that Peterson had not been given accurate weather conditions, and the pilot likely would have postponed the flight with sufficient warning.
Upon hearing the news on TV, Buddy’s pregnant widow Maria Elena suffered sudden shock and psychological trauma so severe it caused a miscarriage of her early pregnancy. Because of this, authorities subsequently implemented a policy against announcing victims’ names until after families had first been notified.
The Legacy Lives On
In the days that followed, tributes poured in. The tragedy was later immortalized in Don McLean’s “American Pie” as “The Day the Music Died,” but here in Clear Lake, the music never truly died.
The Surf Ballroom became a place of remembrance, reflection, and renewal. In 1979, the first Winter Dance Party reunion was held, bringing fans and musicians back to honor the legacy of the lost stars. What began as a small local gathering has since grown into an international pilgrimage — a multi-day celebration of the music, spirit, and optimism that Buddy, Ritchie, and the Big Bopper represented.
Today, visitors to Clear Lake can still stand inside the Surf Ballroom — the same stage, same floor, same walls that echoed with music that fateful night. Just a few miles north, a modest memorial marks the site of the crash, accessible only by footpath through the fields. Fans leave guitars, glasses, and handwritten notes in tribute — tokens of gratitude to the musicians who changed the world and left it too soon.
In 2021, the Surf Ballroom & Museum was designated a National Historic Landmark, ensuring that its story — and the story of that February night — will be preserved for generations to come. The Surf remains both a live music venue and a museum, keeping the legacy of rock ‘n’ roll alive while inspiring new artists to follow in those same footsteps.