What Events and In-Studio Sessions Does KEXP Host?

Updated

KEXP hosts two main types of in-person programming you can attend: in-studio live sessions at KEXP Studio (NW Rooms), some of which are marked "OPEN TO THE PUBLIC," and events at the KEXP Gathering Space, plus seasonal and community events listed on its Events page. The homepage's "Upcoming KEXP Events + In-Studio Sessions" section lists specific dates, artists, and locations, so the practical way to find something to attend is to check that list and follow the "More Info" link for each entry.

In-Studio Sessions at KEXP Studio (NW Rooms)

These are live performances recorded at KEXP's studio. The site distinguishes between sessions that are open to the public and those that are not — look for the "(OPEN TO THE PUBLIC)" label.

Examples listed on the homepage:

Date Artist Location Access
Sept. 23 Iguana Death Cult KEXP Studio (NW Rooms) OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Oct. 13 Kelsey Lu KEXP Studio (NW Rooms) OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Nov. 9 Genesis Owusu KEXP Studio (NW Rooms) OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

If a session is not labeled open to the public, treat it as a broadcast/recording session rather than a public event — the site does not indicate public entry for those.

Events at the KEXP Gathering Space

The Gathering Space hosts separate events, including live performances. One example from the homepage:

  • Hermanos Gutiérrez — Friday, September 25th, KEXP Gathering Space.

Because the Gathering Space and the Studio are listed as different venues, check the location line on each event before planning to attend.

Seasonal, Touring, and Community Events

Beyond individual sessions, KEXP lists larger programming:

  • Aquí y Ahora — September 15th through October 15th ("More Info" link provided).
  • The 2026 Yule Benefit Tour — December 3–5 in Seattle, Portland, and Berkeley; tickets listed as on sale.
  • Haight Ashbury — a project with a "Learn More About the Project" link.
  • KEXP's Vinyl Club — spots described as opening September 25th.

These are distinct from studio sessions and may involve ticketing, travel, or membership-style participation, so use each item's own link for details.

How to Find and Confirm What's Happening

  1. Go to the KEXP homepage and find the "Upcoming KEXP Events + In-Studio Sessions" section.
  2. Read the date, artist, venue (KEXP Studio – NW Rooms, or KEXP Gathering Space), and any access label such as "OPEN TO THE PUBLIC."
  3. Select "More Info" or "More KEXP Events" for full details before attending.
  4. For sessions you can't attend in person, the same performances typically surface through KEXP's Live on KEXP podcast and streaming archive.

Practical Notes

  • The homepage shows only a partial, rotating list — dates and artists change, so re-check before making plans.
  • "OPEN TO THE PUBLIC" appears only on some studio sessions; absence of that label is the signal that a session isn't a public event.
  • The site does not state admission prices, capacity, or RSVP requirements for these listings, so confirm those through each event's "More Info" page rather than assuming free entry.