Philadelphia-based musicians take over six venues in the city for a week in October during Philly Music Fest. Founded as a non-profit organization in 2017 by Jenn and Greg Seltzer, this music festival has only one goal in mind: prop up current and future musicians shaping the Philly music scene. Because the festival is run as a non-profit, excess funds are sent to music education programs and organizations like Rock To The Future, Girls Rock Philly, and the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra, all of which make music education more accessible.
This year’s Philly-born lineup includes pop-punk quartet Tigers Jaw, Kurt Vile of The War on Drugs, Knifeplay and The Cheddar Boys to name a few, and the festival has a stacked alumni of indie artists who encapsulate the Philly music scene. Past performers have included Alex G, Mt. Joy, Japanese Breakfast, Arthur Thomas and the Funkatorium, Mannequin Pussy, Screaming Females, Shamir, Slaughter Beach, Dog, The Menzingers, and many more.
Sounds vary from indie rock to alternative to funk, soul and pop-punk, yet all unquestionably fall under the Philly sound, whether that be the long tradition of funk influences or the city’s thriving scene of grunge underground rock. Underground Arts and MilkBoy, two of the six venues, are extremely popular within the underground music scene in the city.
Beyond the seven nights of shows, the non-profit also hosts industry info sessions — called “Inside Hustle” — throughout the year in partnership with radio station WXPN, the public radio station of the University of Pennsylvania. Guests are from the local scene (like WMMR hosts, local artists). The next one is planned for October 14.
The Specs
- Attendance numbers vary by venue size, with the smallest venue housing up to 220 people and the largest 650 people.
- Tickets range from $29-$98 per show, depending on the venue.
- For more info, visit phillymusicfest.com.
- Staying in Philly? Check out Fifty Grande’s guide to the best things to do in the city here.
FAQs
Where is the nearest airport?
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is the closest airport to the festival, about 10 miles and a fifteen-minute drive from downtown Philly.
Where is the Philly Music Fest 2023 located?
Philly Music Fest is spread out over six venues in Philadelphia: Ardmore Music Hall, World Cafe Live, Johnny Brenda’s, MilkBoy on Chestnut, Underground Arts, and Solar Myth.
How do I get around Philly?
All participating venues are easily accessible by public transportation. SEPTA — Philly’s subway system — trains, and buses are within walking distance of every venue.
It’s my first time going. What can I expect?
Philly Music Fest typically features artists from all genres and 2023 is no different. You’ll see a local mix of hip hop, jazz, rock, bluegrass, folk Americana and punk, as well as some national artists.
Who is headlining Philly Music Fest 2023?
Kurt Vile & The Violators, and Marian Hill are headlining the fest.
What is the full lineup for Philly Music Fest 2023?
Kurt Vile & The Violators, Marian Hill, Mo Lowda & The Humble, Tigers Jaw, Algernon Cadwallader, Charlie Hall, Saturn, Gladie, Knifeplay, Trap Rabbit, Ryan Gilfiillian, Chris Forsyth, Julia Pratt, Purling Hiss, Schoolly D, Emily Robb, Grocer, Huey, The Cosmonaut, Church Girls, Sophie Coran, Yowler, Florry, The Cheddar Boys, and Moustapha Noumbissi.
2023 Poster
Videos