Downtown Raleigh's Hopscotch Music Festival is returning Thursday, Sept. 7 through Saturday, Sept. 9 with stages in the heart of Raleigh and day parties throughout the city. Let's break down the highlights of this eclectic music festival's lineup.

Thursday, Sept. 7

See acts like indie bands Pavement and Alvvays on the City Plaza stage and English singer-songwriter King Krule at Moore Square. Pavement recently reunited in 2022, making this a must-see performance for the influential group. Canadian act Alvvays is always ready to pump out the jams, so don't miss the band in the early evening.

Friday, Sept. 8

In addition to rapper Denzel Curry at City Plaza and country singer-songwriter Margo Price at Moore Square, check out a whole day of comedy at the Lincoln Theatre, including SNL's Sarah Sherman. If you just can't get enough live music, head to Schoolkids Records, Boxcar Bar + Arcade, and plenty of other venues for performances throughout the day.

Saturday, Sept. 9

Close out the festival with a jam-packed day of music from indie pop band Japanese Breakfast, singer-songwriter Soccer Mommy, and rock bands Dinosaur Jr. and American Football at the main stages downtown. Japanese Breakfast is a Hopscotch alum, and American Football will play in NC for the very first time.

Don't miss even more music

In addition to main stage musical guests, don't forget to check out day parties happening at multiple Raleigh venues. From NC State's D.H. Hill Jr. Library to hot new restaurant Ajja and Transfer Co. Food Hall to Ruby Deluxe, local spots will be popping off every day of the festival. Stick around on Sunday, Sept. 10 for even more tunes at Slims, Night Rider, and The Pour House Music Hall.

Also, Skate Raleigh will have a pop-up booth located near Kings and Neptunes Parlour with rollerblade and skateboard competitions + bites from Wandering Wolf food truck.

Passes are on sale for $149 and $375 — don't wait until it's too late.