A Visitor's Guide to the Kilby Court Block Party

From Garage Band Dreams to Festival Phenomenon

Let's talk history for a second. Kilby Court isn't just Salt Lake's longest-running all-ages venue—it's practically hallowed ground in the indie music world. Since 1999, that tiny garage has hosted early shows by everyone from Phoebe Bridgers to Mac Miller (yes, really). So, when the Block Party launched, it wasn't just another festival—it was a celebration of Salt Lake's indie spirit.

Fast forward to today: That scrappy local gathering has transformed into a four-day musical feast at the historic Utah State Fairpark, where world-class headliners share stages with tomorrow's breakout stars. Think of it as Kilby Court's spirit, amplified about 1,000 times (literally—we're talking 25,000 fans per day).

The 2026 Lineup

Headliners include Lorde, The XX, Turnstile

Artists throughout the weekend include Hayley Williams, Modest Mouse, Alex G, Blood Orange, Lucy Dacus, Father John Misty, Japanese Breakfast, Magdalena Bay, flipturn, The Last Dinner Party, Briston Maroney, Beach Bunny, American Football, Snail Mail, Granddaddy, Pattie Gonia, Between Friends, Ritt Momney, The Moss, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, Kevin Morby, Wild Nothing (playing Gemini), Drugdealer, Melody's Echo Chamber, Ben Kweller, Dehd, Ethan Regan, Show Me The Body, Lyn Lapid, Jane Remover, Quadeca, Dry Cleaning, El Mato a un Policía Motorizado, Smerz, KennyHoopla, Hannah Cohen, NewDad, Chanel Beads, Freak Slug, Tops, Automatic, Feeble Little Horse, Die Spitz, Provoker, Mustard Service, This is Lorelei, Hotline TNT, Caroline, Folk Bitch Trio, Wombo, Old Mervs, The Kilans, Cardinals, YHWH Nailgun, FIGHTMASTER, Glom, Gelli Haha, Rachael Jenkins, Dad Bod, Wilbere, Jill Whit, Bad Luck Brigade, Gonk, Starr 67, Nadezhda, Chalk, and Pixie & The Partygrass Boys. 

What Makes This Festival Hit Different

Look, we could tell you about the stellar lineup (and we will), but first, let's talk about what sets this festival apart:

• The Venue: The Utah State Fairpark isn't just any festival ground, it's a historic spot with character to spare. Those art deco buildings and sprawling grounds create festival spaces that feel both epic and intimate.
• The Setup: Multiple stages mean you're never more than a quick walk from your next favorite band. And unlike some festivals where you need a map and compass to find food, here everything's laid out for maximum music enjoyment, minimum hassle.
• The Vibe: Maybe it's the mix of global headliners and local heroes, or maybe it's just how we do things in Salt Lake, but there's a genuine friendliness here you won't find at bigger festivals. Don't be surprised if you end up trading band recommendations with complete strangers.

Pro tip: While the big names might bring you here, make time to wander. Some of the festival's most magical moments happen on the smaller stages.

Getting Here & Getting Around

Here's where Salt Lake's size works in your favor. Flying in? You'll be downtown 15 minutes after leaving the airport. Staying downtown? The TRAX Fairpark Station is just a 15 minute ride from downtown Salt Lake. Just hop on the Green Line and enjoy the view. And late-night downtown spots? They're never more than a train ride away.

Festival Fuel: Food & Drink

The food lineup here is almost as impressive as the music. While vendors rotate yearly, you can count on a solid mix of Salt Lake favorites and festival exclusives. Past years have featured:

• Laziz Kitchen's Lebanese street food
• Santo Taco's festival-exclusive specials
• Bruges Waffles' legendary machine gun sandwiches
• Normal Ice Cream's indie rock-inspired flavors

And that's just the start. 

Pro tip: Keep an eye on social media for vendor announcements—some local spots create special menu items just for the festival.

After Dark: Post-Festival Adventures

When the last note fades at the fairgrounds, Salt Lake's just getting started. Here's where to keep the vibe going:

Downtown Late Night Eats:

• Pie Hole (slice of pizza heaven until 2am)
• Eva's Downtown (small plates until midnight)
• Beto’s (because sometimes you need a California burrito at 1am)

Keep the Music Going:

• Urban Lounge (catch festival artists' after-shows)
• Gracies (rooftop vibes and craft cocktails)
• Lake Effect (craft cocktails and great late-night atmosphere)

All these spots are an easy TRAX ride from the festival grounds.

Making the Most of Your Festival Experience

Pro Tips from Festival Veterans:

• Download the festival app before you arrive (set times, maps, and last-minute surprises)
• Bring a reusable water bottle (free fill stations throughout)
• Wear comfy shoes (you'll be doing more walking than you think)
• Pack layers (Salt Lake nights can get cooler than you'd expect)

First Timer's Strategy Guide:

• Start each day with a plan but stay flexible
• Check out at least one band you've never heard of
• Make time for food exploration between sets
• Your Kilby Block Party ticket includes FREE travel with all UTA outlets for Block Party weekend!

Beyond the Festival

Turn your festival trip into a proper Salt Lake adventure.

Within easy reach of neighborhoods and downtown Salt Lake: 

• Thrifting at spots like Blue Velvet Bunny, Vantage, Uncommon, Village Vintage and many more. 
• Hiking in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons 
• Late-night sugar rush at Gourmandise or Normal Ice Cream
• Morning-after recovery brunch at Sweet Lake Biscuits & Limeade, Tulie Bakery, and The Park Cafe 
• Take GreenBike up City Creek Canyon or through the city

Ready to Join the Party?

Whether you're coming for a specific headliner or just love the idea of discovering your next favorite band in a city that's mastered the art of hosting world-class festivals while keeping things refreshingly real, the Kilby Court Block Party is your jam.

Grab your tickets early—with 25,000 music lovers per day, this isn't exactly a secret anymore. But don't worry, we've saved you a spot in the crowd.