Seattle Turned It Up: A Weekend at Capitol Hill Block Party
Capitol Hill Block Party brought the perfect mix of music, creativity, incredible food. Seattle sunshine fell brightly to the city streets. From Gelli Haha and Haute & Freddy’s unforgettable sets to the festival’s endlessly fun fashion, there was something to love around every corner. Already looking forward to doing it all over again.
Capitol Hill Block Party 2026
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Photo Credit: Liam Duffy
Photo Credit: Gelli Haha \\ Liam Duffy
I've been to a few festivals in my time, but Capitol Hill Block Party is something special. From the beginning of my first day the atmosphere was thick with good vibes and it lingered in the air the entire duration. The festival staff and photo staff I met were all so kind and generous. I loved meeting them. The vendors had INCREDIBLE food. The restaurants and bars lining the streets were jam-packed. I loved having a festival right in the middle of a city block, everything just felt so convenient. The stage setups were pretty good too! I did feel that some of the artists at the second biggest stage could have easily played the main stage though, especially acts like Ninajirachi and Frost Children. However, this always happens at festivals and it's just a part of how it goes! I truly had a blast and I had a few highlights that stuck with me!
Photo Credit: Haute & Freddy \\ Liam Duffy
First off would be the creativeness of both Gelli Haha, and Haute & Freddy. Both of them were in my list of anticipated acts, and both blew me away. Gelli Haha had such a decorated set. It felt like those I spy books. The whole set was filled with this playfulness that was so unique to her specifically. Haute & Freddy are themed after a 18th century runaway carnie and blend that aesthetic with 80s new wave pop. I can say it was the first time I've ever seen someone else juggle on a festival stage as well.
I looooveed the outfits I saw at this festival. From a guy wearing a shirt about being narcanned at a Cheesecake Factory to a group of friends only wearing denim, everyone was fitted up!
The headlining acts and the performances immediately before then were just as incredible. I have no notes about any of them. I felt each was paired perfectly with what followed or who they followed as well. Sometimes it was radically different genres like Zach Fox into Parcels, but it still worked flawlessly.
On top of everything, the weather was perfect! I didn't get to experience any famous Seattle overcast and I was luckily surprised with sunny skies and a temperature between 75-80 degrees each day. I am very excited to attend this festival in the future again and again.
Photo Credit: Between Friends \\ Liam Duffy
Article by: Liam Duffy
Plug In. Tune Out.
A soundtrack inspired by the 2026 Capitol Hill Block Party lineup. Featuring the artists defining indie pop, alternative, dance, and electronic music right now. From the shimmering synths of Magdalena Bay and Parcels to the infectious energy of Wet Leg, MUNA, Haute & Freddy, Ninajirachi, and more. Whether you're getting ready for the festival or reliving the weekend afterward, these are the songs that make Capitol Hill Block Party one of the year's most exciting lineups.
