_{By Michael Luce}

There, over on the horizon! It’s war, and it’s coming right this way! No, you haven’t just learned about a new global conflict from your local music nerds; we’re talking about Fall Battle of the Bands at The Boardwalk in Orem! The semi-annual fight for glory has returned, and it’s sure to be a good time as always.

In only a few years, The Boardwalk’s BOTB has shaken off the stigma of being a ‘training ground’ for other stages and come into its own as a genuinely great event. The whole week is incredibly well-run and has given rise to some of the best emo, alt, hard-rock, and punk acts in the area.

While Ultimate Runner-Up Night won’t be making a return this time, that doesn’t mean The Boardwalk is compromising their mission of delivering some of the most hard-hitting, absolutely banging nights of local music. I can tell you personally there were some absolutely incredible performances this past spring, and the margins between first and second each night were razor thin. This isn’t just another show; this is an all-out brawl for musical dominance.

Submissions for bands hoping to compete in the Fall 2024 Battle can apply now through September 14. Applicants can expect to hear back shortly after the submission period has ended, and preference will be given to bands who did not compete in the Spring 2024 series. Also, despite what I said about heavier music, groups from indie to country have had success before, so nobody should count themselves out!

The Boardwalk’s Fall 2024 Battle of the Bands will run from Tuesday, November 5 through Saturday, November 9, 2024. Bands interested in applying can do so here. While you wait to find out the lineup, check out “Kinda Love” from Spring 2024 finalists Lipsill and follow The Boardwalk on Instagram to stay up-to-date!