Thousands gathered in 90-degree weather for the Basilica Block Party Friday, Aug. 2 and Saturday, Aug. 3 at Boom Island Park. The two-day event moved from the Basilica of St. Mary, downtown, to the park because of space limitations and construction near the church. (Mike Madison)
Goo Goo Dolls, The Fray and Counting Crows drew thousands of concert goers to Boom Island Park Friday and Saturday, Aug. 2-3. The headliners were just three of several rock bands who played for the Basilica Block Party, last held in 2022. The two-day event raises money for the preservation of the Basilica of St. Mary, 88 N. 17th St.
Lead singer Joe King of The Fray. (Mike Madison)
Prior to the Goo Goo Dolls performance, William Clapp and his daughter make a donation to the MFD who were collecting donations for burn victims. (Mike Madison)
The heat didn’t stop fans from attending the Block Party this year. (Mike Madison)
Cooling off by the river (left to right) Jason VanBergen, Aileen VanBergen, Laura Vaughan of Oakdale. (Mike Madison)
Views of Boom Island from across the river Friday, Aug, 2 as the Basilica Block Party rocks into the night. (Mike Madison)
Fans enjoyed the addition of a Ferris wheel, giving it a true music festival feel with beautiful views from above. (Mike Madison)
“We spent a million nights at First Avenue. We even have a star on the wall. Minneapolis is a special place for us,” said John Rzeznik of Goo Goo Dolls. (Mike Madison)
Paul Blomgren has lived next to Boom Island for 25 years. Other than the sound, Blomgren said the event isn’t intrusive at all. (Mike Madison)