MINNEAPOLIS — Calling it "a triumphant return," organizers of the Basilica Block Party confirmed that the acclaimed summer music bash is back after a two-year hiatus.
After dropping an obvious hint on social media, the fest announced Thursday that the 2024 edition of the Basilica Block Party is set for Aug. 2 and 3 on Boom Island in Minneapolis. While organizers did not release a musical lineup, they are promising "captivating headliners" and "exciting discoveries" that will play smaller side stages.
Festgoers will also see a wide variety of local food and beverage vendors.
As has been the case since it debuted in 1995, proceeds of the summer bash will go toward the restoration of the iconic Basilica of St. Mary on the edge of downtown Minneapolis. While the stages will no longer be set up in the shadow of the Basilica, money from the show will funnel back for restoration efforts and to support the Saint Mary's partnership with the St. Vincent De Paul Outreach Initiative.
"We are thrilled to bring back the Basilica Block Party in 2024," shared Father Daniel Griffith, pastor and rector at Basilica of Saint Mary. "This event has become a cherished tradition for both our community and the city of Minneapolis. Not only does it provide incredible entertainment for attendees, but it also plays a vital role in supporting The Basilica’s mission and outreach to those in need."
Tickets for the 2024 Basilica Block Party will go on sale soon, and fans are encouraged to keep an eye on the official website for announcements on the musical and vendor lineups.
The Basilica Block Party started nearly 30 years ago, a merger of church and beer-soaked music party that seemed unlikely at first but proved to be a huge hit, drawing thousands and generating revenue for the beloved Basilica.
Eventually, the fest fell victim to competition from more and more outdoor summer music events and changing musical tastes. It was linked to Cities 97, a Twin Cities radio station that was itself struggling with its format and identity, and some felt the lineup of artists was not as compelling as a result. COVID restrictions scuttled the fest in 2020, and after a lukewarm return in 2021 organizers decided not to hold the Basilica Block Party in both 2022 and 2023, calling it a hiatus "to rethink what the event could be and how to make it better for the future."
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