Get ready, music lovers! Riot Fest is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025, and the lineup is absolutely stacked. Headliners include Green Day, Blink-182, and the one and only Weird Al Yankovic, promising a weekend of punk, rock, and pure entertainment. The festival will return to Douglass Park, continuing its multi-year agreement with the Chicago Park District, ensuring that Riot Fest remains a staple of the Chicago music scene for years to come.
This year’s festival is not just about the music; it’s about community and investment. Riot Fest is increasing its contribution to capital improvements in Douglass Park, demonstrating a commitment to the neighborhood that hosts it. With a daily capacity of 50,000, the festival is set to bring energy and excitement to the park, while also giving back to the community.
From the headliners to the undercard, Riot Fest 2025 is shaping up to be an event you won’t want to miss. This article dives into the details of the lineup, the festival’s new agreement with the city, and what you can expect from this year’s celebration. Let’s get into it!
Green Day, Blink-182, and Weird Al Headline Riot Fest 2025
Riot Fest has officially announced its 2025 headliners, and it’s a dream come true for fans of punk, pop-punk, and all things quirky. Green Day, Blink-182, and Weird Al Yankovic will take the stage, promising electrifying performances that span generations of music.
Green Day, known for their high-energy shows and iconic anthems, will headline on Sunday. With a career spanning over three decades, they’re sure to bring a setlist packed with hits and a stage presence that’s second to none. As captured by Tess Crowley of the Chicago Tribune, Billie Joe Armstrong’s performance at Wrigley Field in August 2024 was nothing short of spectacular, hinting at what fans can expect at Riot Fest.
Blink-182, the pop-punk legends, will headline on Friday, bringing their signature blend of catchy hooks and irreverent humor. Fresh off their recent reunion tour, they’re ready to deliver a set that will have the crowd jumping and singing along to every word. Tess Crowley also captured Tom DeLonge’s performance at Lollapalooza in August 2024, showcasing their enduring appeal and stage presence.
Weird Al Yankovic, the master of parody, will also be taking the stage. Known for his hilarious takes on popular songs, Weird Al is sure to bring a unique and unforgettable experience to Riot Fest. His inclusion in the lineup adds a layer of fun and whimsy to the festival, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
An All-Star Lineup: More Than Just Headliners
While the headliners are undoubtedly a major draw, Riot Fest 2025 boasts an incredibly diverse and talented lineup from top to bottom. With over 90 performers across five stages, there’s no shortage of music to discover throughout the weekend.
Joining the headliners are acts like Weezer, Jack White, the Sex Pistols, and Alkaline Trio, ensuring that fans of all genres will find something to love. From punk rock to alternative to indie, Riot Fest has curated a lineup that celebrates the best of the music world.
Other notable names include Idles, Rilo Kiley, Knocked Loose, Jawbreaker, Dropkick Murphys, Bad Religion, The Pogues, The Hold Steady, The Front Bottoms, The Academy Is …, Cobra Starship, Gym Class Heroes, Texas Is the Reason, Knuckle Puck, The Wonder Years, Dance Hall Crashers, James, Sparks, Hanson, The Bouncing Souls, The Damned, Inhaler, Rico Nasty, Screeching Weasel, Citizen, Senses Fail, Microwave, Free Throw, Dehd, The Linda Lindas, Panchiko, Buzzcocks, Superchunk, Militarie Gun, The Cribs, Stiff Little Fingers, Shudder to Think, Helmet, Toche’ Amore’, Pegboy, Honey Revenge, Marky Ramone Plays The Ramones, The Ataris, Camper Van Beethoven, Marianas Trench, The Didjits, Agnostic Front, Thrown, Lambrini Girls, Ovlov, Soft Play, Smoking Popes, Puddles Pity Party, H2O, Juila Wolf, Violent Vira, Delta Sleep, Mac Sabbath, Chase Petra, Wishy, The Effigies, Girl in a Coma, Samiam, The Tossers, Shonen Knife, Zero Boys, Speed of Light, The Paradox, The Barbarians of California, Agent Orange, Quannic, Harrison Gordon, Weakend Friends, Dune Rats, Footballhead, Big Ass Trick I.E., Cliffdiver, and Loviet.
With such a wide range of artists, Riot Fest 2025 promises to be a weekend of non-stop music and excitement. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the headliners or looking to discover new favorites, there’s something for everyone at this year’s festival.
Riot Fest Stays in Douglass Park: A New Deal for the Community
After much debate and discussion, Riot Fest has reached a new agreement with the city to remain in Douglass Park for at least the next three years. This decision is a win for both the festival and the community, as it ensures that Riot Fest will continue to be a part of the Chicago music scene while also investing in the park’s future.
Under the terms of the deal, Riot Fest will contribute 30% of its revenue from the event to capital improvements in the park, up from 10% in previous years. This increased investment will go towards enhancing the park’s facilities, ensuring that it remains a valuable resource for the community.
According to Lauren Quinn, Park District deputy director of revenue, proceeds from Riot Fest will total $3 million to $4.5 million for the Park District through the end of the agreement in 2029, with roughly $1 million of that going to the park for improvements. This financial commitment demonstrates Riot Fest’s dedication to giving back to the community that hosts it.
In addition to the financial investment, Riot Fest has also pledged to minimize its impact on the park during setup and teardown. The festival dates have been changed to not overlap with the Mexican Independence Day Parade, and Riot Fest will leave open as much of the park area it uses south of Ogden Avenue as possible during setup and teardown, running from Sept. 10-26.
Beyond the Music: Riot Fest’s Commitment to the Community
Riot Fest’s commitment to the community extends beyond its financial investment in Douglass Park. The festival also makes efforts to support residents of the surrounding neighborhoods with employment opportunities and free tickets through its Beyond the Fest initiatives.
By providing employment opportunities, Riot Fest helps to create jobs and stimulate the local economy. These jobs range from security and event staff to food vendors and merchandise sellers, providing a variety of opportunities for residents to get involved.
In addition to employment, Riot Fest also offers free tickets to residents of the surrounding neighborhoods through its Beyond the Fest initiatives. This allows community members to experience the festival firsthand, fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging.
As Riot Fest organizer Mike Petryshyn, also known as Riot Mike, stated, “It’s not about a single weekend. It’s about building something that lasts.” This sentiment encapsulates Riot Fest’s commitment to creating a positive impact on the community that extends far beyond the festival weekend.
More Than Just Music: What to Expect at Riot Fest 2025
Riot Fest 2025 promises to be more than just a music festival; it’s an immersive experience that combines music, comedy, carnival rides, and a vibrant atmosphere. With over 90 performers across five stages, there’s always something to see and do.
In addition to the music, festival-goers can expect the festival’s usual assortment of carnival rides, sideshow tents, merch, and vendors. This creates a fun and engaging atmosphere that keeps attendees entertained throughout the weekend.
This year, Riot Fest is also promising an increased emphasis on food vendors from the surrounding community. This not only provides attendees with delicious and diverse food options but also supports local businesses and entrepreneurs.
Whether you’re a music lover, a comedy fan, or just looking for a fun weekend, Riot Fest 2025 has something for everyone. From the headliners to the carnival rides to the local food vendors, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
Get Your Tickets: Don’t Miss Out on Riot Fest 2025
Tickets for Riot Fest 2025 are on sale now, and you won’t want to wait to secure your spot. With such an incredible lineup and a commitment to the community, this year’s festival is sure to be one for the books.
Tickets are available in various tiers, including general admission, VIP, Deluxe, and Deluxe +. Each tier offers different perks and amenities, allowing you to customize your festival experience to your liking.
Riot Fest will be held from Sept. 19-21 in Douglass Park, located at 1401 S. Sacramento Drive, with the entrance at the corner of Ogden Avenue and Sacramento. Be sure to mark your calendars and plan your trip accordingly.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Riot Fest website. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable weekend of music, community, and fun!
Riot Fest 2025: A Celebration of Music, Community, and Chicago
Riot Fest 2025 is shaping up to be an extraordinary event, celebrating 20 years of music, community, and Chicago culture. With headliners like Green Day, Blink-182, and Weird Al Yankovic, as well as a diverse lineup of talented artists, this year’s festival promises to be one for the books.
The festival’s commitment to Douglass Park and the surrounding community is commendable, demonstrating a dedication to giving back and building something that lasts. From increased financial investment to employment opportunities and free tickets, Riot Fest is making a positive impact on the neighborhood that hosts it.
So mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready to experience Riot Fest 2025. It’s a celebration of music, community, and the vibrant spirit of Chicago.
See you in Douglass Park!
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