The North Park sign in San Diego. Credit: North Park Music Fest

By Gina Yarbrough

San Diego, CA–The North Park Music Fest returns Saturday, bringing a full lineup of diverse performers from across the San Diego region. 

Organizers expect thousands of music fans to descend on North Park, where 35 performers are scheduled to take the stage at venues throughout the popular uptown neighborhood. The annual festival showcases a diverse mix of artists and highlights the area’s vibrant music scene.

Featured artists include Frankie and the Witch Fingers, Cut Chemist, Brainstory, The Gaslamp Killer, and Sugar Candy Mountain. Organizers have scheduled more than 30 additional acts throughout the day. 

From noon until 1:45 a.m., the festival will energize the neighborhood with live entertainment spread across multiple venues, including Bivouac Ciderworks, Pretzels & Pints, Queen Bee’s, The Office Bar, and True North Tavern.

Festival wristbands are priced at $25, including fees, in advance and will increase to $35 on the day of the event. A VIP package is also available for $65 in advance and $75 on event day. VIP attendees will receive access to a private lounge at Granada House featuring intimate performances by Jesus Gonzalez and special guests, front-of-the-line venue access, one complimentary drink, and curated appetizers.

In addition to live music, North Park-based social networking platform Walkabout will host a special “green room” experience at Union Cowork. The space, available exclusively to Walkabout users, will offer food, beverages, networking opportunities, and wellness-focused activities. The app is free to download and use.

The festival will also feature a free community stage at North Park Mini Park, located at 3812 29th Street, with performances scheduled from noon to 7 p.m. Several participating businesses, including Bacari, El Comal, Pure Pawsh, Overload, Playground Art + Coffee, and VISUAL art + supply, will not require festival wristbands for entry.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the North Park Business and Neighborhood Foundation, which supports beautification projects, public art programs, community initiatives, and efforts to strengthen connections between local businesses and residents.

“This festival is more than a music event—it’s a celebration of the creativity, culture, and community that make North Park special,” said Chad Matkowski, executive director of North Park Main Street. “Whether you’re discovering a new local band, supporting a neighborhood business, or simply exploring the district, North Park Music Fest offers something for everyone.”

Organizers expect approximately 2,800 ticketed attendees and more than 5,000 total participants throughout the day.

“Our green room offers a Zen retreat where you can connect with neighbors who share that same love and passion for music and community,” said Jessica Young, president of Walkabout. “We hope everyone attending will stop by.”

Parking will be available at the North Park Garage at 3829 29th Street, which offers 350 spaces. Festivalgoers can also reach the neighborhood via Metropolitan Transit System bus routes 2, 6, 7, and 10.

For a list of performances and schedules, visit North Park Music Fest website