The Contemporary Art Museum (CAM):
The CAM is a unique Hopscotch experience—one that should not be missed. Centrally located in the warehouse district of downtown Raleigh, this beacon of art and culture seldom offers full-scale musical performances. The gallery offers plenty of room to exhibit musicians and artwork alike, allowing you to vibe with artists such as JunglePussy, Kelela, Mr. Carmack, and more.
Kings Raleigh:
Built by local musicians in 1999, King’s (as it is affectionally known), immediately brought fresh acts to the Oak City music scene. Having established itself as a must-see local musical venue, Kings offers a peculiar, intimate space for artists—and patrons—to have an unforgettable concert experience. For our 21+ crowd, the bar is stocked with artfully crafted cocktails.
Lincoln Theatre:
Having established itself as a right of passage for local musicians whilst earning an affable reputation with successful touring musicians, Lincoln Theatre is among the “must see” venues offered during Hopscotch. This impressive venue is cozy enough to fill the room with a palpable energy—yet big enough to get your dance on. DJ Spinn The Era Footwork Crew, Big Freedia, and All Dogs are some of the artists that will be providing the vibes throughout the weekend. Don’t play yourself.
Memorial Auditorium:
Opened in 1932 Memorial Auditorium is the “local crown jewel” of Raleigh’s performing arts, hosting legends such as Sinatra, Ray Charles, and Prince to name a few. This is a rare opportunity to experience artists such as Young Thug, Andrew Bird, and Television in such a place. The venue is elegant, filled with chandeliers and smells of rich mahogany, (Ron Burgundy would love this place). However, you can’t drink inside and it’s stadium seating so not a lot of room to get your dance on. But, it will provide you a concert experience you’ll never forget.
Away Msg at Hopscotch 2015
Neptune’s:
Straight up, if you like to dance this is the place for you. Small, hot, and in the basement of King’s it’s reminiscent of the most lit dance party you’ve ever been to and probably ever attend. Walking down into Neptune’s is almost surreal, once halfway down you hear the bass knocking and definitely feel the energy. It’s something special you have to see four yourself. Artists such as Blursome, SwizzyMack, Body Kit, and others will be there performing and I highly recommend to not miss it. Also, for the 21+ check out their exceptional cocktails.
Slim’s:
This dive bar is synonymous with the underground music scene of Raleigh. Notoriously known as the city’s oldest rock bar and hangout for the diverse characters around town, Slim’s is definitely a spot worth checking out. They have great and inexpensive drinks and a cool ambiance. For the 21+ highly recommending the Cheerwine shot to drink something, a real southerner would know. This venue gives fans an intimate setting to experience artists such as A Giant Dog, Pink Flag, and others during Hopscotch.
Red Hat Amphitheater:
One of the newest additions to Raleigh’s music venues, the Red Hat Amphitheater provides a beautiful outdoor space. Artists and patrons alike are overshadowed by the colorful reflections of the Cree shimmer wall giving this venue a special touch unique to Raleigh. It is one of the most spacious venues downtown featuring a well-groomed lawn and lots of amenities. Erykah Badu and Gary Clark Jr’s show will be a performance for the ages. You’re not going to want to miss it.
Oneohtrix Point Never at The Pour House Music Hall
The Pour House Music Hall:
An intimate venue where you feel the artist’s and crowds vibes that create an energy that you won’t forget. Outfitted with a balcony and bar stacked with the best local beer if you’re thirsty. The Snails, Occultist, Sneaks, and others will be performing throughout Hopscotch weekend so I’ll see you there.
Deep South:
This venue is legendary in the local music scene, not a day goes by without live music erupting from Deep South. Providing diverse genres it is a hub for music lovers around. Winning lots of awards annually and a stones throw away from the Red Hat Amphitheater it is a place deserving of attention. Artists such as Diet Cig, Al Riggs, and others will be gracing the stage there.
Nash Hall:
This is a new venue for Hopscotch and Raleigh. On the corner of E Morgan St. and S Blount St. it was known formally as Nash Motors and now acts as a stunning new venue. Described as a more intimate CAM, this will be a new experience and something definitely worth checking out. Tom Carter, 75 Dollar Bill and Julien Baker are a few artists performing during Hopscotch.
–Cruise One
