It’s been a long time coming, but Hancher’s fall welcome concert is returning with Americana superstar Sierra Ferrell.
The free concert will begin at 8:30 p.m., Friday, Aug. 28, outside on the Hancher Green.

Who is Sierra Ferrell?
Ferrell is the latest luminary in roots music. Her third studio album, “Long Time Coming,” released in 2021, received critical acclaim for Ferrell’s unique approach. The four-time Grammy Award-winner, won Best Americana Album and Best American Roots Performance for her latest release, “Trail of Flowers.”
At the 2025 Grammys, Ferrell was one behind the night’s most awarded artist, Kendrick Lamar, who won five.
Ferrell has collaborated with many different artists, including Post Malone, Billy Strings, and, most recently, Mumford and Sons on Saturday Night Live. Ferrell will also join Mumford and Sons as a touring act during the band’s “Prizefighter” tour.
Ferrell highlights Hancher’s 54th season
Ferrell’s Iowa City performance is one of more than 40 tour stops on the Heavy Petal Tour, which includes festival dates and supporting artists like The Red Clay Strays. Ferrell’s stop on the UI campus is her only free show.
Her concert is one of many exciting shows during Hancher Auditorium’s 54th season. The announced lineup includes Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers, Ray LaMontagne and Snarky Puppy. Hancher’s full season lineup will be announced in July.
How to get tickets to Sierra Ferrell
The August welcome concert is free and open to the public, with no ticket required. However, fans can RSVP online for updates. The first 500 will receive a free, commemorative merch item.
Jessica Rish is an entertainment, dining and education reporter for the Iowa City Press-Citizen. She can be reached at JRish@press-citizen.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @rishjessica_
This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: Popular folk star headlines UI’s Hancher welcome concert. What to know
Reporting by Jessica Rish, Iowa City Press-Citizen / Iowa City Press-Citizen
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