Chicago’s Riot Fest is celebrating two decades of chaos, community, and killer lineups with this year’s anniversary edition pulling no punches. Set for September 19–21 in Douglass Park, the 20th anniversary of the beloved independent festival will be headlined by Green Day, Blink-182, Weezer, and Jack White, with over 90 acts slated to perform across the weekend.
Festival founder Mike “Riot Mike” Petryshyn launched Riot Fest in 2005 with one goal: “to put a show together with all of my favorite bands.” Two decades later, that DIY dream has grown into one of the country’s most distinctive and genre spanning festivals, known for booking legacy reunions, full album sets, and an eclectic lineup (including a butter sculpture tribute to John Stamos…yes, really.)
Riot Fest, originally a punk-centric club fest scattered across Chicago venues, has evolved into a full scale outdoor staple that still champions the city’s independent spirit. Beyond the monumental weekend, the brand continues to host shows year round at local venues, supporting the city’s thriving underground scene.
With a new long-term agreement with the Chicago Park District, Riot Fest’s home in Douglass Park is secure for years to come, a rare piece of good news in the world of independent festivals.
Tickets for Riot Fest 2025 are on sale now, and exclusive 20th anniversary merch is also available.
Daily Lineups
Friday, September 19 brings Blink-182, “Weird Al” Yankovic, Alkaline Trio, Rilo Kiley, Knocked Loose, The Pogues, The Hold Steady, and Sparks.
Saturday, September 20 features Weezer, Jack White, the Sex Pistols (featuring Frank Carter and Steve Jones, Paul Cook, Glen Matlock), The Beach Boys, Dropkick Murphys, and All Time Low.
Sunday, September 21 closes with Green Day, IDLES, Jawbreaker, Bad Religion, The Academy Is…, Cobra Starship, and Gym Class Heroes.
Full Album Performances
True to Riot Fest tradition, this year’s lineup includes a generous slate of full album sets. Highlights include:
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Weezer – The Blue Album
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Sex Pistols – Never Mind the Bollocks…
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Alkaline Trio – Maybe I’ll Catch Fire
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Bad Religion – Suffer
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The Academy Is… – Almost Here
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The Ataris – So Long, Astoria
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Knuckle Puck – Copacetic
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…and many more deep cuts for the dedicated.
