KEXP’s Hood-to-Hood returns to Ballard on Friday

By Joe Veyera

For the fifth time in nine years, Ballard came out on top in KEXP’s Hood to Hood Challenge in 2013, the annual fundraiser in which neighborhoods compete for the chance to host a day-long celebration put on by the radio station.

This Friday, Ballard will get enjoy the fruits of their fundraising labor as the station descends on the neighborhood for a day of live music, DJ sets, and the first-ever KEXP record fair.

The Hilliard’s Beer Taproom (1550 NW 49th St) will host KEXP’s live broadcast, featuring free performances open to the public by Iska Dhaaf, the Faint, and Katie Kate.

From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., the first-ever KEXP Record Fair will be held at the Sunset Tavern (5433 Ballard Ave NW), with Barsuk, Sonic Boom Records, and Sub Pop Records among the labels set to be on hand.

Beginning at 5 p.m., KEXP DJs will host live music showcases and DJ sets at participating bars, restaurants, and businesses. Gibraltar, Fox and the Law, Hounds of the Wild Hunt, Widower, and Smokey Brights make up the lineup at the Sunset, while the Tractor Tavern (5213 Ballard Ave NW) will host performances by Jason Dodson of the Maldives, Goodbye Heart, and Tangerine.

For the full lineup and details on the day of music, click here.

Ballardites will have the chance to claim next year’s Hood to Hood celebration during KEXP’s Summer One-Day Fundraising Drive on Friday, June 13.