When you think of Norcal music festivals, your first thought is likely Outside Lands, the biggest San Francisco Bay Area festival. But for those who prefer the fringes of the music industry, Noise Pop has been a home for the SF indie music scene. Thirty years ago, Noise Pop began as a one-day music festival, advertised as “five bands for five dollars.” It’s now a nine-day, multi-venue ordeal that spans SF, Oakland and Berkeley. Some of the live music spots to host the fest will include Great American Music Hall, 1015 Folsom, Gray Area, Bottom of the Hill, Rickshaw Stop and Grace Cathedral.
This year’s Phase 1 lineup has Snail Mail, The Mountain Goats, and Cherry Glazerr. Noise Pop Festival’s phase 2 lineup includes multi-instrumentalist Louis Cole at August Hall, ambient music with visual performance from Suzanne Ciani at Grace Cathedral, and punks Dehd at Great American Music Hall.
An increasing rarity these days, Noise Pop passes guarantee entry into every show on the poster AND exclusive parties and affiliated happy hours. For those who can’t commit to 10 days of rock shows or electronica raves, do not fret. Tickets to individual shows are sold along with the all inclusive passes. Food vendors have yet to be released, but Noise Pop also hosts a food festival, separate to the music festival, with eats like braised lamb sandwiches, grilled elote, and turkey and vegetable momos.
Of note: Noise Pop has a track record of booking up-and-comers who go on to claim fame as well-established artists. Indie rock headliners Modest Mouse and the White Stripes both played here during their come-ups, so pay close attention to the names on the bill you don’t know well. Also of note: many cool artists (like Shepard Fairey) have designed the festival’s posters.
The Specs
- 20,000 people attend each year.
- General Admission passes start at $180. Super fan (VIP) passes cost $435.
- Here’s our guide to what to do in San Francisco.
- Noise Pop festival badges are on sale now.
FAQs
What is the closest airport to the Noise Pop Festival 2024?
SFO (San Francisco International Airport) is the closest airport.
Where is Noise Pop Festival held?
The festival is held in San Francisco across dozens of concert venues.
How far is Los Angeles from San Francisco?
LA is 382 miles south of SF.
What kind of bag can I bring into Noise Pop Festival?
Bag policy may vary from venue to venue — check each venue’s bag policy prior to the events.
Who produces Noise Pop?
The festival is produced by San Francisco Bay Area independent music promoter, Noise Pop Industries.
Which artists are on the lineup?
Snail Mail, The Mountain Goats (solo), Cherry Glazerr, Reverend Kristen Michael Hayter, Hailu Mergia, Sofia Kourtesis, Actress, Alessandro Cortini, Narrow Head, Thee Sinseers, Militarie Gun, Ultra Q, Shay Lia, Kendra Morris, Pool Kids, Spiritual Cramp, Raue, Cola, Greg Mendez, Chokecherry, The Reds, Pinks & Purples, Stephen Steinbrink, The Softies, Wombo, Roman Candle, Louis Cole, Suzanne Ciani, Dehd, Jacques Greene b2b Nosaj Thing, Alice Glass, Mount Eerie, Laetitia Sadier, Aja Monet, Loving, Ana Roxanne, Califone, Emile Mosseri, Black Belt Eagle Scout, Holly Bowling, The Seshen, Melanie Charles, Mark Sultan BBQ, Genevieve Artadi, Cosa Nostra Strings, Cadence Weapon, Fog Lake, Nailah Hunter, Cole Pulice, Celia Hollander, Sour Widows, The Sextones, Reverend Kristin Michael Hayter, Darwin, Ben UFO, Conducta, Manuka Honey, Olof Dreijer.
