M3F Festival 2025: Where Music, Community, and Charity Converge in Phoenix

Introduction

Each year, Phoenix, Arizona, transforms into a vibrant hub of music, art, and philanthropy during the M3F Festival. Established in 2004 as the McDowell Mountain Music Festival, M3F has evolved into a premier nonprofit event that donates 100% of its proceeds to local charities. The 2025 edition, held on March 7-8 at Steele Indian School Park, continued this tradition, offering attendees an eclectic mix of performances while supporting the community.

A Festival with a Purpose

M3F stands out not just for its musical offerings but for its unwavering commitment to philanthropy. Since its inception, the festival has raised over $6 million for various causes, focusing on arts, education, community development, and environmental initiatives. Organized by Wespac Construction, M3F is a testament to how entertainment can drive positive change.

2025 Lineup Highlights

The 2025 lineup was a testament to M3F’s dedication to diverse and genre-spanning music. Headliners included the dance-punk pioneers LCD Soundsystem and the French electronic duo Justice, both delivering electrifying performances that captivated the audience.

Other notable acts included:

Sylvan Esso: Known for their synth-pop sound, they brought a blend of electronic beats and emotive vocals.
Alvvays: The Canadian indie pop band charmed fans with their melodic tunes.
BADBADNOTGOOD: This jazz ensemble infused their set with improvisational flair.
Girl Talk: Renowned for his mashups, he kept the energy high with a dynamic DJ set.

The festival also showcased emerging talents like ALEXSUCKS, alice.km, and Confidence Man, ensuring a platform for up-and-coming artists.

Experiences Beyond Music

M3F is more than just music; it’s an immersive experience. Attendees explored the Vendor Village, featuring local artisans and businesses, and indulged in culinary delights curated with Phoenix Magazine. The Backbar Cocktail Experience offered unique beverages, while the Family Zone ensured fun for all ages.

Community and Volunteerism

The festival’s success is bolstered by the dedication of volunteers. Each year, around 400 public volunteers join forces with Wespac employees to bring M3F to life. This collaborative effort underscores the festival’s community-driven ethos.

Conclusion

M3F Festival 2025 exemplified how music festivals can transcend entertainment, becoming catalysts for community engagement and charitable giving. With its diverse lineup, immersive experiences, and philanthropic mission, M3F continues to set the standard for festivals that aim to make a difference. As attendees danced under the Phoenix sky, they weren’t just enjoying music—they were contributing to a legacy of positive impact.

M3F Festival 2025 FAQ

General Information

When and where is M3F Festival 2025?
The festival takes place on Friday, March 7, and Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Steele Indian School Park, located at 300 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85012.

What does M3F stand for?
Originally known as the McDowell Mountain Music Festival, M3F is a nonprofit music festival that donates 100% of its proceeds to local charities.

What are the festival hours?
Gates open at 1:00 PM each day, with performances running into the evening. Specific set times are available on the official schedule.

Is the festival family-friendly?
Absolutely! Children under 12 years old can enter for free, and there’s a dedicated Family Zone with activities suitable for all ages.

Is M3F accessible for attendees with disabilities?
Yes, M3F is committed to ensuring accessibility for all guests. For specific accommodation requests, please contact the festival organizers directly.

Tickets & Entry

What ticket options are available?
M3F offers several ticket types:

2-Day General Admission: Access to all performances and festival areas.

2-Day VIP Experience: Includes elevated access at all three main stages, VIP-only bars, upgraded culinary options, shaded seating areas, and exclusive restrooms.
Single-Day General Admission: Available for either Friday or Saturday.
Single-Day VIP Admission: Available for either Friday or Saturday, with VIP perks.

Tickets can be purchased through the official ticketing site.

Is the festival cashless?
Yes, M3F is entirely cashless. Vendors accept only credit and debit cards.

Can I re-enter the festival after leaving?
No, re-entry is not permitted once you exit the festival grounds.

What to Bring

What items are allowed inside the festival?
Permitted items include:

Clear backpacks or handbags (maximum size: 12″ x 12″ x 8″)
Small clutches, fanny packs, or wallets (maximum size: 5″ x 7″)
Empty hydration packs (single-pocket, maximum size: 12″ x 12″ x 8″)
Non-professional cameras, phones, and GoPros
Prescribed medication with matching ID
Sunglasses, hats, earplugs, sunscreen, and bug spray
Umbrellas (parasols) and ponchos

What items are prohibited?
Prohibited items include:

Totems, wagons, folding chairs, and large backpacks
Professional cameras or audio recording devices
Outside food and drink (except empty water bottles)
Weapons, drugs, or drug paraphernalia
Glass containers, lighters, drones, and selfie sticks

Transportation & Parking

Is parking available at the festival?
There is no official festival parking. Attendees are encouraged to use public transportation, ride-sharing services, or park at 4041 N Central Ave.

Can I use public transportation to get to the festival?
Yes, the Valley Metro Light Rail’s Central Avenue and Campbell stop is just a five-minute walk from the festival entrance. An all-day pass costs $4.

Is there a bike valet?
Yes, bike valet services are available near the entrance at N Central Ave.

Lineup & Performances

Who are the headliners for M3F 2025?
The 2025 lineup features:

LCD Soundsystem: Dance-punk pioneers known for their electrifying performances.
Justice: French electronic duo delivering high-energy sets.
Sylvan Esso: Synth-pop duo blending electronic beats with emotive vocals.

Other notable acts include Alvvays, BADBADNOTGOOD, Girl Talk, Confidence Man, and Frost Children.

Where can I find the full lineup and schedule?
The complete lineup and set times are available on the official M3F website.

Festival Experiences

What experiences are available beyond the music?
M3F offers a variety of experiences, including:

Vendor Village: Shop local artisans and businesses.
Culinary Delights: Curated food options in collaboration with Phoenix Magazine.
Backbar Cocktail Experience: Unique beverages in a social setting.
Family Zone: Activities suitable for all ages.
Featured Art: Local artistry, installations, and exhibits throughout the festival.

Get Involved

Can I volunteer at M3F?
Yes, volunteer applications are typically available in December. Volunteers assist with various roles and contribute to the festival’s success.

How can I become a sponsor or vendor?
For sponsorship opportunities, email [email protected]. Vendors can submit inquiries through the Vendor Application.

How do I apply for press credentials?
Press applications can be submitted through the Media Inquiries section on the official website.

Where is the M3F festival?

The M3F Festival 2025 will be held at Steele Indian School Park, located at 300 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85012. This centrally situated urban park offers a spacious and scenic setting for the festival’s diverse lineup of music, art installations, and community activities. Its central location makes it easily accessible via public transportation, ride-sharing services, or biking.

What type of music is M3F?

The M3F Festival is renowned for its eclectic blend of musical genres, offering attendees a diverse auditory experience. The 2025 lineup exemplifies this diversity, featuring headliners like LCD Soundsystem, known for their dance-punk and electronic rock fusion, and Justice, a French electronic duo celebrated for their electro house and French touch styles. The festival also showcases artists across various genres, including indie pop acts like Alvvays, jazz-influenced groups such as BADBADNOTGOOD, and electronic musicians like Girl Talk and Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs. This wide-ranging selection ensures that M3F caters to fans of pop, indie rock, electronic dance music, and beyond, solidifying its reputation as a multifaceted music festival.

What is the M3 festival?

The M3F Festival, short for McDowell Mountain Music Festival, is an annual nonprofit music and arts event held in Phoenix, Arizona. Established in 2004, M3F is unique in that 100% of its proceeds are donated to local charities, supporting causes related to the arts, education, and community development. The festival features a diverse lineup of musical acts spanning genres such as indie rock, electronic, pop, and more, attracting both renowned headliners and emerging artists. Beyond music, M3F offers attendees a rich experience with art installations, local food vendors, and interactive activities, all set against the backdrop of Phoenix’s vibrant cultural scene. Its commitment to philanthropy and community engagement has solidified M3F’s reputation as a festival that not only entertains but also gives back.