Olympia is the centrally located beating heart of Pacific Northwest music. But we’re not just blessed by proximity to local giants. We’ve spawned nearly as many amazing musicians as Brewery Park has salmon. Get your tickets now for this summer’s South Sound Block Party’s carefully curated, two-day musical extravaganza. Celebrate summer with family, friends and fellow music lovers August 23-24, 2024.
Musical Legends Bring Their Talents to the South Sound Block Party
With more than 15 live bands, the third annual South Sound Block Party is produced by a small, grassroots team in Olympia and promises something for everyone. Headliners include Oly’s own punk rock icons, Bikini Kill, the groundbreaking contributors to the iconic riot grrrl movement. The second headliner is LA’s legendary punk rock band X, whose debut album “Los Angeles” is one of Rolling Stone’s 500 greatest albums of all time.
“I’m super happy with this year’s local additions to the stage, and it’s our biggest swing to date on headliners,” shares owner and promoter Christen Greene (she/her/they). “I couldn’t be more thrilled with how it came together. It’s a diverse and fun lineup and really gives a nod to the city and our music culture as a whole here.”
Other bands include reggae-infused indie group Surfer Girl, up-and-coming hip-hop phenom Oblé Reed of Spokane, and a few Olympia-based bands: Manic Pixie Dream Boat, Hillstomp, and LAKE. You can find a full list of performers and performance times on the festival’s website. While you’re there, sign up for the mailing list to receive priority notifications about changes, additions and special discount opportunities.
Open Ears + Open Minds + Open Hearts = New Musical Discoveries
Other music festivals may promise something for everyone, but the South Sound Block Party’s organizers work hard to create what Greene calls: “a lineup that beckons exploration” as it embraces diversity and pushes artistic boundaries. This is the unmistakable signature of South Sound Block Party’s programming.
“One of the compliments we receive most often and something that we pride ourselves on is the curation of the lineup,” says Greene. “I run into people all the time who tell me that they discovered and loved someone who has played for us, and they’ve become fans: they dug into their catalog, bought records and go to their next tour. I love that! Music discovery is fun – and harder to do as we get older – so I like to think we’re helping a bit with that to those with an open mind. My hope is that you find a new favorite band while digging into our lineup.”
You can listen to a playlist of folks from South Sound Block Party 2024 on Spotify.
A Waterfront Rock and Roll Celebration for All Ages
South Sound Block Party 2024 takes place at the Port of Olympia’s downtown NorthPoint, 1210 Marine Drive NE. In addition to the stellar musical lineup, attendees can look forward to an array of local delights like food pop-ups, a VIP lounge, games and more, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Puget Sound.
There will be a beer garden run by 4 the Love Foundation and a tent with merchandise from bands and festival organizers. Kids of all ages can enjoy games in a dedicated play area and those 18+ needing some new ink will find tattoo professionals on hand offering their flashiest flash designs.
Tickets are available for one- or two-day attendance, and families are always welcome. Kids 12 and under attend free. Since its inception, SSBP has become a highlight of the summer calendar, drawing music lovers from near and far to experience the vibrant culture and scenic beauty of the South Sound region. VIP packages are already sold out, but there are plenty of general admission passes available, though prices may increase as the event draws closer.
Tips to Guarantee a Fabulous Festival for One and All
Greene offers a few tips that’ll make the experience one to remember for everyone involved. She reminds folks to grab their reusable water bottles for the on-site filling stations. Bring cash to tip your bartenders and come early to hear new – or new to you – bands. And while there are plenty of seats, if you have a favorite low-back chair, those are welcome. Sunscreen and a floppy hat are also good ideas!
Not allowed are professional cameras with detachable lenses; outside food, beverages or alcohol; drugs or weapons of any kind; coolers; pets aside from service animals (and don’t leave them in your car either); laser pointers or drones; and pop-up tents or sunshades.
The South Sound Block Party 2024 runs from 3 to 10 p.m. on Friday, August 23 and 1 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, August 24. Visitors with valid wristbands are welcome to come and go as they please during the event. There are street parking and bike lock areas nearby, otherwise, take Intercity Transit’s 45 bus to the Olympia Farmer’s Market and walk over from there.
For those visiting from outside of town, look for driving directions and hotel recommendations on the website, as well as rideshare directions for anyone using Uber and Lyft. Check out South Sound Block Party 2024 Facebook, Instagram and X pages for additional FAQs. Then, come ready to fall in love all over again with downtown Olympia, PNW’s finest musicians and the South Sound Block Party vibe.
South Sound Block Party
August 24, 3 p.m. – 10 p.m.
August 25, 1 p.m. – 10 p.m.
NorthPoint
1210 Marine Drive NE, Olympia
Sponsored
