Summer is about iconic food, gorgeous weather and ice cream in the shade. But it also welcomes the return of outdoor festivals, al fresco concerts and community-wide get-togethers. Clear your calendar on August 25 and 26 for the return of the annual South Sound Block Party. That Friday and Saturday, the Port of Olympia’s NorthPoint transforms into the best weekend of the summer with more than a dozen live bands of global and local acclaim. Mix in a little food, drink, plenty of games and a family-friendly setting for a true weekend to remember.
Celebrate Summer at the South Sound Block Party
Festival producer Christen Greene (she/her) promises two full days of amazing entertainment in the heart of downtown’s waterfront. “This first-class music festival is set to captivate audiences with its incredible lineup of nationally and internationally touring acts,” says Greene. With every passing moment, it becomes crystal clear that this festival is destined to become an integral part of Olympia’s already legendary music scene. Prepare to be blown away as over 15 sensational live bands take the stage, ready to unleash their incredible talent upon our eager ears.
Greene started the festival in 2022 upon relocating back to our area. “I was fueled by deep reverence for the rich, musical legacy of Olympia and the music coming from the Pacific Northwest,” she says. “My foremost hope for this year’s festival is to draw a larger crowd across both days. We have a very impressive lineup of bands and performers who have never graced our city before, and it’s important for us to showcase our supportive and vibrant music community to them.”
Embracing an unrivaled value in comparison to other statewide gatherings, tickets to South Sound Block Party offer an exceptional bargain. Moreover, children under 12 can relish in the festivities free of charge, while single day tickets can be obtained for a mere $40, weekend passes for $75, and limited VIP wristbands for $125, subject to availability. VIP benefits include free parking, catered meals each evening, and exclusive bar and side-stage access. Greene says to expect a really good time in a central location that has something for everyone. There will be live music on a large stage with great sound and excellent site lines; a large bar with cocktails, beer and wine; plenty of seating; games for the whole family; a VIP section; unique food vendors and food pop-ups.
Olympia Music Festival to Feature National and International Touring Bands
Unlike Olympia’s more casual events, the South Sound Block Party is a curated music festival of touring bands as well as up-and-coming locals. Acts come from diverse genres including pop, indie, folk, Latinx, R&B and more. Find a playlist online to get yourself familiar with the lineup or stream it just to set the mood.
Here are a few of this year’s headliners:
Tune-Yards have received critical acclaim and uncountable positive reviews for their live performances. Known for their energetic and captivating stage presence that encompasses looping, layered vocals, world beats and a variety of instruments, this is one of their first shows in 2023 and the only in the Pacific Northwest.
Jake Wesley Rogers is the winner of the John Lennon Songwriting Contest for his song “Middle of Love.” Jokingly called the love child of Elton John and David Bowie by Alternative Press Magazine, he’s kicking off his summer tour in min-June before rolling into Olympia’s Block Party scene.
Sunny War’s new album, “Anarchist Gospel,” was just named one of Rolling Stone’s Best Albums of 2023 So Far. She was recently on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” playing for late-night TV audiences around the world.
Annie DiRusso’s new release, “God I Hate This Place” and its accompanying tour have received critical acclaim. She even performed on “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert.”
An Olympia meets Minneapolis blend, The Lowest Pair’s dueling banjoes are an incredible folk sound duo. They received an Independent Music Award, Americana Music Honors & Awards nomination and an NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert feature.
Grab Your South Sound Block Party Tickets Today and Come Ready to Party
The South Sound Block Party is more than just another excuse to kick back and have some fun. It’s also been recognized as a celebration of community. The festival recently won the Boldness in Tourism Award from Thurston County and the Experience Olympia & Beyond team for it’s bold, new ideas and innovative method of attracting visitors to our region.
To keep Olympia green, there will be plenty of free bike parking onsite and they’re encouraging attendees to ditch the single-use water bottle by providing free drinking water stations around the event. Pack an empty water bottle or two as well as low-backed folding chairs to fully enjoy the tunes. Check out their FAQ page for restrictions, hours and guidelines.
There you will also find applications to be a sponsor, vendor or volunteer at this year’s fun. Email questions to info@southsoundblockparty.com or follow the latest updates on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Get ready to have an unforgettable weekend with live music and community. It’s clear that the South Sound Block Party is a music festival that offers exceptional value for your money. Let the melodies and harmonies sweep you off your feet as Olympia solidifies its reputation as a haven for exceptional music and unforgettable performances. Dance, sing, and create lifelong memories at this sensational event that celebrates the power of music in our lives. Now that’s truly a summer to remember.
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