The Capitol Groove Festival 2025 took place on June 28, 2025, at Bushnell Park in Hartford, Connecticut, bringing together indie music lovers for a day filled with live performances, vibrant cultural experiences, and a celebration of the local music scene. The festival, which ran for two days, featured a stellar lineup of artists spanning a wide range of genres, including rock, soul, folk, and alternative, offering something for everyone.
With a growing reputation as one of the must-attend music festivals in New England, Capitol Groove Festival 2025 proved to be another huge success, attracting music fans from across the region and beyond. The festival’s mission is to showcase both emerging talent and established indie artists, and this year’s event did not disappoint.
Lineup and Performances
The lineup for Capitol Groove Festival 2025 was diverse and included performances by well-known bands like Khruangbin, Thee Sacred Souls, Bleachers, and Thundercat. These acts brought an eclectic mix of indie rock, funk, soul, and electronic beats, creating an exciting atmosphere throughout the day.
Khruangbin, known for their unique blend of Thai funk, psychedelic rock, and soul, opened the festival to a captivated audience. Their performance featured laid-back grooves and hypnotic rhythms that had the crowd swaying and dancing under the sunny skies.
Later in the day, Thundercat took the stage, delivering an unforgettable set of funky bass lines and smooth jazz-infused melodies. The Grammy Award-winning artist’s performance was a standout moment, with Thundercat’s signature falsetto and virtuosic bass skills captivating the audience.
The night concluded with a high-energy performance by Bleachers, led by Jack Antonoff, who brought his signature brand of indie pop to the stage. With hits like “I Wanna Get Better” and “Chinatown,” Bleachers had the crowd singing along and dancing late into the evening. “It’s incredible to be back here,” Antonoff said, sharing his appreciation for the energy and enthusiasm of the Hartford audience.
Community and Cultural Celebration
In addition to the musical performances, the Capitol Groove Festival also featured a variety of local food vendors, offering a diverse array of culinary options. From gourmet street food to craft beers, the festival created a perfect environment for food lovers to indulge in while enjoying the music.
Local artists and crafters also set up booths, showcasing their work and giving festival-goers the opportunity to take home unique handmade items. The cultural celebration extended beyond music and food, as the festival helped elevate local artisans and creators within the Hartford community.
One of the highlights of the festival was the community stage, where local bands and performers had the chance to shine and gain exposure. These artists, many of whom are up-and-coming in the local music scene, were given the platform to showcase their talents to a broader audience.
The Economic and Social Impact of the Festival
The Capitol Groove Festival not only provided entertainment but also contributed significantly to the local economy. The event brought in thousands of visitors, generating business for hotels, restaurants, and other local establishments. Additionally, the festival fostered a sense of community by providing a space where people from diverse backgrounds could come together and celebrate music and culture.
Local business owners like Amy Brown, who owns a nearby café, noted the positive economic impact. “We’ve seen a noticeable increase in foot traffic during the festival,” she said. “It’s wonderful to see the whole community come together and support one another. The festival brings a real sense of unity to Hartford.”
The festival also supported local charities and nonprofit organizations by donating a portion of its proceeds to causes like music education for underprivileged youth and supporting mental health initiatives. These efforts align with the festival’s overarching goal of using music as a platform for positive social change.
Looking Forward to Capitol Groove Festival 2026
As Capitol Groove Festival 2025 came to a close, organizers were already looking forward to next year’s event. With plans to expand the festival, increase the diversity of performances, and continue to foster community engagement, Capitol Groove Festival is poised to become a cornerstone event for Hartford and a must-visit festival for indie music fans.
“The response to this year’s festival has been overwhelming,” said festival director Emily Parker. “We’re excited to build on this momentum and continue providing a space for creativity, community, and, of course, amazing music.”
