The nation’s largest neighborhood block party wrapped up in Seattle Sunday night, under heightened security, two weeks after three people were fatally shot at the Bite of Seattle.
“We’re here for the music and the good vibes,” said Julia Colburn, who was enjoying the festival with a friend.
The three-day, annual event features food, art, and music. Genres range from indie to punk and hip-hop, performed across several stages. And it’s all tucked into six Seattle city blocks.
“I love a good music festival,” said Jhett Hawkins. “I love a block party vibe. I think it’s really cool when you can mix like the city and what’s already here with music.”
As they drank in the vibe, festival goers told us they were well aware of the deadly shooting at the Bite of Seattle just two weeks ago. “So, security and the safety of the guests and the artists and the staff is obviously top priority. It has to be,” said Grace Lindsey, Marketing Director of the Capitol Hill Block Party.
She pointed out that unlike the Bite of Seattle, the Capitol Hill Block Party is a ticketed event with restricted entrances and bag searches. Metal detectors were added this year, but she says that had been planned previously. Seattle Police and security guards maintained a visible presence.
“Because you can really only have fun and have the freedom to express yourself if you feel safe,” Lindsey said.
They are necessary precautions in an age when fun comes with risk, according to Troy, who declined to give KIRO 7 his last name. Troy said he was at the Gorge Amphitheater during a deadly shooting at the adjacent campground three summers ago.
“I think high security at this point is expected. I think if you’re going to throw an event of this size, it’s an expectation as a concert goer.” He added that the threat of violence wouldn’t deter him from attending festivals.
“There’s evil in the world. Things are going to happen… but nothing’s going to keep us out of the sunshine.”