Washington, D.C. is gearing up for the highly anticipated return of HFStival, a musical event that was once the city’s biggest concert in the 1990s and early 2000s. The festival, launched by the alternative rock station WHFS in 1990, attracted massive crowds with legendary bands such as No Doubt, the Violent Femmes, and the Ramones performing electrifying sets at RFK Stadium.
Over the years, HFStival grew in popularity, drawing in over 50,000 attendees by the mid-90s and selling out tickets in less than two hours. Now, I.M.P., the parent company of the renowned 9:30 Club, is bringing back the nostalgia of the ’90s and 2000s with a stellar lineup of bands at Nationals Park.
This year’s HFStival, scheduled for September 21, boasts an impressive roster of artists including The Postal Service, Death Cab for Cutie, Incubus, Bush, Garbage, Jimmy Eat World, and more. Fans of the festival will notice a shift back to its roots, as it will feature a single stage for the first time since 1993 and no local bands on the lineup, a departure from the past.
Jen Hass, I.M.P.’s co-director of booking, expressed the significance of HFStival, stating that the event holds a special place in the hearts of many as a nostalgic moment. The festival has always been known for its rock-centric focus, but over the years, it has welcomed a diverse range of artists, from Coldplay to Jewel. This year’s lineup aims to bring together both original HFStival performers and artists who have cemented their legacy in the music industry.
Tickets for HFStival 2024 will be available through a lottery system, with prices ranging from $150 for upper-level seats to $475 for VIP tickets that include exclusive perks like complimentary drinks and access to VIP areas. Ticket requests must be submitted by June 16, with confirmation emails set to be sent out on June 21.
Music fans in Washington, D.C. and beyond are eagerly anticipating the return of HFStival, a festival that promises a day filled with incredible music and nostalgic vibes from the iconic era of the ’90s and 2000s.