Capitol Hill Block Party expands to three days

For those looking for a summer festival close to home, look no further than the newly-expanded three day Capitol Hill Block Party, held July 23 to 25 on east Pike Street and
12th Avenue.

This year will be the festival's first with a third day, added to accommodate The Dead Weather, one of this year's headliners.

"This venue will offer the band an environment conducive to what they do, and they're looking forward to playing at the festival," said Steve Manning, press contact for Capitol Hill Block Party.

The festival will offer over 60 bands from varying genres, including many local bands. Notable acts on Friday will include MGMT, a must-see for all those dreaming of hearing teen-angst anthem "Time to Pretend" performed live; Yeasayer, offering the perfect follow-up to the electronic-inspired sounds of MGMT; and, for those looking to relive (or actually remember) one of the performances from Quadstock, Macklemore.

Saturday will offer a more laid back atmosphere, with performances from Blitzen Trapper and Blonde Redhead, and Sunday offers The Dead Weather, plus local favorites Blue Scholars, Fresh Espresso and The Dutchess and the Duke, as well as many more options all three days.

All ages can attend the festival, although the stage in Neumos will be 21 and over, with the Vera Stage and the Mainstage both being all ages.

Manning believes one of the main draws for the festival is its location right in the middle of the city, and its unique offering of a festival atmosphere in an urban environment.

Although some residents and businesses of Capitol Hill were initially concerned about the difficulties of expanding the event and how the three-day event would disrupt the neighborhood, Manning says they have all been very accommodating in allowing the festival to grow.

"It really celebrates Capitol Hill and is unique to this neighborhood," Manning said. "It's about celebrating the music and culture of this area."

The Capitol Hill Block Party began 14 years ago, and has now grown into what Manning describes as a "full blown destination festival," drawing attendees from around
the Northwest.

Tickets are on sale now and are $23 for a single day advance sale pass and $60 for an advance three-day pass.

Olivia may be reached at ojohnson@su-spectator.com