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Hopscotch Hacked 

Hopscotch Hacked 

by | Jul 21, 2025 | Do, July/August 2025

How to make the most of Hopscotch Music Fest 

Happy Hopscotch to all who celebrate! It’s that time of year again—the 15th annual DTR indie music fest is back Sept. 4–6, once again hailing NC for the complex sound haven it is while spotlighting acclaimed music across all genres and from around the world, plus up-and-coming artists and household names. 

Known to consistently predict the next big names in indie, Hopscotch has hosted the likes of up-and-comers Japanese Breakfast, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Waxahatchee and MJ Lenderman long before their breakout. Bottom line: Even if some names don’t ring a bell (yet), trust—you’ll be seeing and hearing a lot more from them soon. Until then—here’s how to make the most of the three-day rhythmic romp. 

Soundcheck? 
Two stages, one in City Plaza and one in Moore Square, will showcase the headliners, and an array of smaller venues around DTR will host Day Parties to give the smaller names a stage (P.S. Day Parties don’t require a pass to attend!). 

Lineup Legends? 
Earl Sweatshirt and Built to Spill will headline Thursday, with My Morning Jacket and Godspeed You! Black Emperor on Friday, and Sparks and Crumb on Saturday—all with opening support from the likes of Geese, Superchunk, Florry and more. 

Pick Your Pass
🎫GA tickets |$160+ 
Access to three days of live music at both stages, plus late-night comedy sets 

🎫VIP tickets |$340+ 
Additional perks including VIP swag bag, priority access to late-night sets and VIP-only amenities at both stages  

Map Your Moves
Use the Hopscotch app to locate your can’t-miss sets ahead of time—the walk between stages doesn’t take long, but it will feel a lot longer when your fave artists play within minutes of each other. 

Garrett Poulos, courtesy of Hopscotch Music Festival

Bag the Rules
It’s prime time to break out the belt bag, or skip the bag entirely and keep those hands free for fist pumping and dancing. Pro tip: Any bag larger than 13 x 15 inches must be clear.

Skip the Surge
Ride the rail—and the bus. Rideshare can get pretty pricey, so opt for public transit. If you choose to drive, park in a city parking garage to avoid an astronomically priced ticket.

Weather or Not
It’s a rain or shine event, which is great until you forget a poncho (s/o to anyone who braved the Soccer Mommy set of 2023). Check the weather in the morning and pack accordingly. 

Cool Kicks
Read: Comfy boots or sneakers are the only choices. Your feet will thank you. 

Hot Shopping
If you’re after merch for a specific artist, head to the merch booth at their stage on the day of their set. And don’t forget to check out the festival merch—it’s designed by local artists. 

Not able to Hopscotch? Follow us on socials for a behind the scenes look at the fest! 

Must-See NC Artists
Fust 
Blue Cactus
Manas
Superchunk
Daughter of Swords
Magic Tuber Stringband
Scarlet House
Victoria Victoria 
Nathan Matthews Ensemble

Know How to Go: Hopscotch 2023

Know How to Go: Hopscotch 2023

by | Sep 7, 2023 | Do, September 2023

 Here’s the scoop on this year’s festival.

Oh, hoppy day! Hopscotch Music Festival is back for its 13th year, and this year’s lineup feels like Christmas in September for any Raleigh music fanatics—NTM, all the other fun activations and festivities taking place (hey, day parties!). Whether you’re a seasoned Hopscotch veteran or completely new to the fest, here’s your guide to making the most of your three-day rhythmic romp. Hop to it! 

Who?
Nearly 100 artists will be performing, including King Krule, Pavement, Alvvays, Dinosaur Jr.  and a slew of other big names from all genres. Comedians are also making their debut at the late-night shows this year, including SNL cast member Sarah Sherman (!).

Where?
Festivalgoers will hop (get it now?) between the two main stages in City Plaza and Moore Square for each set. Don’t worry, it isn’t a far walk, and the constant movement of people makes riding the rail so much easier. Performance locations for each artist are listed on the online schedule and Hopscotch app. 

Tickets and Prices
GA tickets ($199) grant you access to three days of live music at the City Plaza and Moore Square stages, plus the late-night comedy sets. VIP tickets ($375) score you such additional perks as a VIP swag bag, priority access to late-night sets at participating clubs and entry to the VIP Oak Lounges at both stages.  

Day Parties
Whether you want to join the fun without footing the bill or just want to pregame the headliners, the free day parties are the move. Raleigh’s best bars and breweries are hosting a bevy of local bands to watch. Pro tip: don’t miss our top day party picks, Cor De Lux at Kings, Teens in Trouble at Transfer Co. and My Sister Maura at Neptunes. The parties will even feature a few names from the main lineup (eyes on you, Truth Club and Max Gowan). 

What to Bring

  • Bring your credit/debit card: Hopscotch is completely cashless, and virtual payments such as Apple Pay aren’t accepted.
  • Tote a small bag or no bag at all: Any bags over 13 inches by 15 inches must be clear—but let’s be honest, who wants to lug a huge bag around all day? Skip the hassle and spring for a cute fanny pack or go purseless.
  • Bring an empty reusable water bottle or factory-sealed bottle: Would it really be September in Raleigh without 90+ degree temps? Hydrate or diedrate! Empty reusable water bottles are permitted and each guest is allowed one factory-sealed water bottle.
  • Opt for comfy shoes: The festival will go on rain or shine, so skip the strappy sandals and opt for the most comfortable pair of boots or sneakers you own—your ’fit will still slay (promise).