Kilby Block Party began in 2019 as a “literal block party” to celebrate Kilby Court.
“Our dream with KBP is to recreate the supportive atmosphere of this beloved venue by bringing together SLC’s music community with some of our favorite artists,” according to Kilby Block Party.
It now holds the title of “the largest indie music festival to ever happen in Salt Lake City,” according to Kilby Block Party.
This year, the festival lasted four days and was held at Utah State Fairpark.
Kilby Block Party’s first year, in 2019, was a one-day event held at Kilby Court. In 2021, the location was moved to 400 W 700 S, and in 2022 the festival increased to two days and was held at Library Square.
2023 was the first year it was held at Utah State Fairpark and spanned three days.
Due to Kilby Block Party’s growing popularity, ticket prices have increased.
In 2021, a general admission ticket was $49, and in 2022, a GA ticket was $99.
This year, 4-day GA tickets ranged from $259-$289.
Individuals travel out of state to the festival with 75 performing artists, holding 25,000 people per day.
“The lineup is really good, and it’s worth it,” said June Corrigan, a third-time Kilby Block Party attendant from Providence, Rhode Island.
Corrigan and her friend, Emily Lucas, traveled from Rhode Island to see performances from Momma, Suki Waterhouse and Wallows.
For other attendees, this was their first time.
“This is my first year at Kilby [Block Party],” said Mazzy Malan, from Ogden, Utah, “I love it so far. I don’t know what to expect,” said Malan.
In contrast, attendee Jeremy Eyre has attended the festival for the past five years.
Eyre said he observed changes from the festival over time.
“It’s definitely gotten a lot bigger, a lot more crowded,” said Eyre. “A lot bigger bands are coming here.”
Eyre said he was most excited to see New Order, a band with over 6 million monthly listeners, according to Spotify.
