Need a break from the Tabernacle Choir performances absolutely rocking the greater Salt Lake City area? As 90s indie icons Pavement would say, you can “harness your hopes” for a reprieve at Kilby Block Party, the largest indie-music festival in Salt Lake City history. This May, some 25,000 indie music fans will gather to bask in the joy of ambient guitar riffs (Dinosaur Jr.), indie girl monologues with a folksy twang (Courtney Barnett) and Vampire Weekend (because who gives a fuck about an Oxford comma?).
To celebrate Kilby Courts’ 25th birthday, the festival has an all-star lineup of headliners including LCD Soundsystem, The Postal Service and Death Cab for Cutie (the Father, Son and Holy Spirit of new-age indie rock). Past performers have included everyone from 90’s underground rock trailblazers Pavement to contemporary solo act Phoebe Bridgers and ever-popular The Strokes, putting this year’s lineup in good company.
While the festival is not held at Kilby Court, a small venue, funds generated by the festival help keep it and the DIY rock scene alive in Salt Lake City. While Kilby Court has a garage-style atmosphere, Kilby Block Party is held nearby at the Utah State Fairpark. A portion of the proceeds from the festival will also be donated to Equality Utah, Save Our Great Salt Lake and Spy Hop.
The festival will have food trucks, beer and liquor tents and free water stations rolled out for the festival. After all, you’re gonna be hungry after doing all that thoughtful head nodding during Beach Fossils’ set. Plus, you can refuel for the several after-parties scheduled at nearby venues in Salt Lake City.
The Specs
- Last year, 25,000 people attend KBP each day, according to organizers.
- Tickets start at $96 for one-day GA and $259 for three-day GA. The full breakdown of ticket tiers and prices, including 3-day passes, can be found here.
- Check out Fifty Grande’s guide to the best things to do in SLC here.
FAQs
Where does the festival take place?
The Utah State Fairpark in Salt Lake City, Utah.
What’s the exact address?
155 North 1000 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84116 Salt Lake City, UT 84116
Where is the nearest airport?
Salt Lake City International Airport is closest to the festival grounds.
Are there any age restrictions?
No, Kilby Block Party is an all-ages event.
What is the bag policy?
Clear bags no larger than 12” x 12” x 6” or not clear small purses/fanny packs that are 6” x 9” or smaller are allowed. All bags will be searched before entering the festival grounds.
Who’s on this year’s lineup?
LCD Soundsystem, The Postal Service, Vampire Weekend, Wu-Tang Clan, Death Cab for Cutie, Interpol, Jai Paul, Joanna Newsom, Belle and Sebastian, 100 gecs, Dayglow, Courtney Barnett, TV Girl, Alvvays, Dinosaur Jr., Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Guided by Voices, Current Joys, Peach Pit, The Garden, Yves Tumor, Panchiko, Beach Fossils, Cautious Clay, Bombay Bicycle Club, Horse Jumper Of Love, Ty Segall, Pond, Yoke Lore, Yellow Days, Ginger Root, Andy Shauf, Slow Pulp, Petey, CSS, Ekkstacy, Yot Club, Krooked Kings, Choir Boy, Luna Li, Hemlocke Springs, Lomelda, Blondshell, Odie Leigh, Fazerdaze, Model/Actriz, Arcy Drive, Annie DiRusso, TAGABOW, Water From Your Eyes, Joanna Sternberg, Kara Jackson, Gustaf, Hana Vu, 26 Fix, Little Moon, Blue Rain Boots, Sculpture Club, Nicole Canaan, Daytime Lover, Drusky, Body of Leaves, Boyfriend Sushi Town, Personal 749 and Bobo. Two more acts will be announced at a later date.
Playlist
Poster
