Block Party is just one day away, and you can feel the energy on campus! Plans are being made, your group chats are alive and the excitement is real. Whether you’re just stopping by or making a full day of it, here’s everything you should know before you go.
Soundcheck
Starting at 1 p.m. on Friday, April 24, food trucks, inflatables, activities and live music will take over the Quad for Soundcheck, the official warm-up for Block Party. Soundcheck a fun, easy way to get into the Block Party spirit and spend some time outside before heading to the main event later that night. Student performers Envy, North Way, Passing Grade and Nancy Dunkle x Grace Ferguson will be taking the stage throughout the afternoon. And did I mention that it’s FREE?! Whether you swing by for an hour with your friends or spend the entire afternoon on the Quad, definitely make Soundcheck an item on your Block Party Day to-do list!
The Official Block Party Concert
The main event starts at 6 p.m. in the JMA Wireless Dome. This year’s concert features The Driver Era, Ravyn Lenae, Snow Strippers and student DJ Spike, bringing a genre for everyone. Before heading in, remember that the JMA Dome has a clear bag policy and walkthrough metal detectors for safety. Food, drinks, giveaway items and personal cameras are also not permitted in the JMA Dome. You can find full details outlining what bags are allowed and what you can expect when going through security on the Syracuse Athletics website.
Ticket Information
Block Party is open to Syracuse University and SUNY ESF students with a valid student I.D. Tickets are $20 and are available for online purchase. Students should download tickets to their phone wallets for easy entrance, as screenshots will not be accepted. Box office staff can also help with any day-of questions that may come up.
Block Party Performers
This year’s lineup brings a mix of pop, R&B and EDM. Here’s a little more about who’s taking the stage.
The Driver Era
Made up of brothers Ross and Rocky Lynch, The Driver Era blends indie pop and rock guitar sounds. You may also recognize Ross Lynch because he started in the Disney Channel show Austin & Ally and the Netflix original series Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. Since then, the brother duo has built their own following with hit songs like “Preacher Man,” “A Kiss” and “Afterglow.”
Ravyn Lenae
Ravyn Lenae is known for her smooth, alternative R&B. Her style is more laid-back with tracks like “Love Me Not.” She recently joined Sabrina Carpenter on her “Short n’ Sweet” tour in 2025, opening alongside another fan-favorite artist currently making waves, Olivia Dean.
Snow Strippers
The Snow Strippers are bringing electronic and hyperpop vibes to this year’s lineup. The duo has collabed with stars like Lil’ Uzi Vert and is known for their top song, “Under Your Spell.”
DJ Spike
Opening the show is student DJ Spike, setting the tone with big beats and fun remixes.
Before You Go
Block Party moves fast, so staying in the loop is key! For real-time updates, follow University Union on Instagram. Block party is the perfect chance to celebrate the end of the semester, so be with your people and take it all in. As always, have fun and be safe!
Written By Julia Seitz G’26, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications