Hopscotch Music Festival returns with updated safety measures, all outdoor event

First, the festival has a reduced lineup and will only feature two stages. Previous years saw multiple venues (mainly indoors), with attendees sometimes filing into crowded clubs to catch must-see bands.

The two outdoor stages will be located in City Plaza and Moore Square. Attendance will be held to 75 percent capacity at both locations.

In light of rising COVID-19 cases in the state, the festival is also requiring proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test in order to attend. Negative tests must be obtained within 72 hours for each day the person plans to attend the festival.

Accepted proof of vaccination includes a physical vaccination card, a photocopy of a vaccination card or an electronic picture of a vaccination card.

Throughout downtown Raleigh, masks are required in any indoor spaces and strongly encouraged outdoors regardless of location and vaccination status.

While official Hopscotch Music Festival shows will be held on outdoor stages each night, there are some free day parties that are happening at other venues throughout downtown.