Riot Fest is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary with an extraordinary lineup featuring some of the biggest names in punk and alternative music. The festival will take place in Chicago's Douglass Park from September 19 to 21, 2025, and is expected to draw huge crowds eager to see headliners Blink-182, Weezer, and Green Day, along with a diverse array of over 90 additional acts.
Founded in 2005 by Michael Petryshyn, Riot Fest began as a small punk rock festival in local venues across Chicago. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the largest independent music festivals in the United States, known for its eclectic lineups, high-profile band reunions, and unique performances. Petryshyn reflected on the festival's journey, stating, "We didn’t plan on making it for 20 years. We planned on making it through one weekend. But here we are – still loud, still weird, still building something bigger than we ever meant to."
This year, fans can look forward to iconic performances from not only Blink-182, who will headline the opening day, but also Weezer on Saturday and Green Day closing the festival on Sunday. Additionally, the lineup features notable acts such as Jack White, Idles, Alkaline Trio, The Pogues, Bad Religion, and many more, including the legendary Beach Boys and the reformed Sex Pistols, who will perform without original frontman Johnny Lydon.
Other artists on the extensive roster include Rilo Kiley, Jawbreaker, Dropkick Murphys, All Time Low, and "Weird Al" Yankovic, among others, ensuring a varied musical experience for attendees. The festival will span five stages, showcasing a mix of punk, rock, and alternative music, alongside carnival rides and a selection of food vendors.
Tickets for the three-day event are already on sale, with general admission starting at $299.98 and VIP options available for those looking for enhanced experiences. Riot Fest's organizers have also announced that they will contribute 30% of the festival's revenue to capital improvements in Douglass Park, a significant increase from the previous year's commitment. This move is part of a new agreement with the Chicago Park District, which will allow the festival to remain in Douglass Park through at least 2027, with a potential extension through 2029.
However, the festival's presence has not been without controversy. Local residents have raised concerns regarding noise, traffic, and litter associated with the event. In response, the Park District has held numerous meetings with community stakeholders to address these issues. The festival's organizers have pledged to minimize disruption during setup and teardown, ensuring that as much of the park remains accessible as possible.
In recent years, Riot Fest has gained a reputation for reuniting bands that fans thought were long gone, such as The Replacements, Misfits, and Slayer. This year's lineup continues that tradition, promising a nostalgic experience for longtime fans while also introducing newer acts to a broader audience.
As the festival approaches its 20th year, the excitement is palpable. Riot Fest has grown from its humble beginnings into a major cultural event, drawing music lovers from across the country. With its rich history and commitment to supporting the local music scene, Riot Fest has solidified its place in Chicago's vibrant festival landscape.
For those interested in attending, the festival will run daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. from September 19 to 21, 2025, at Douglass Park, located at 1401 S. Sacramento Drive, with the entrance at the corner of Ogden Avenue and Sacramento. More information, including ticket purchases and the full lineup, can be found at riotfest.org.
