Douglass Park in Chicago will host Riot Fest this weekend, marking the event’s 21st year in the city. The three‑day festival runs from Friday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and promises a robust lineup of alternative, metal and punk acts.
Headliners and Featured Artists
Friday’s opening night features Twenty One Pilots, Iggy Pop, Rise Against, the Pixies, the Sex Pistols and additional performers. Saturday brings Tool, Morrissey, Social Distortion, Nas and Bad Religion to the stage. Sunday closes with Pierce The Veil, Alanis Morissette, Elvis Costello and Patti Smith.
Other notable draws include Alkaline Trio, The All‑American Rejects, Santigold, Gwar, Pup, Thrice and Patti Smith and Her Band. At 95, “Star Trek” actor William Shatner will make his heavy‑metal debut, backed by acclaimed rock musicians and previewing material from his upcoming album.
Ticket Options
Riot Fest offers single‑day, two‑day and three‑day passes. General‑admission one‑day tickets start at $130, with VIP and Deluxe upgrades ranging from $200 to $790. Two‑day passes begin at $240, while three‑day passes cost $360 for general admission; VIP and Deluxe options go up to $1,780. All tickets are non‑refundable and non‑transferable. Groups of ten or more can inquire about group rates via [email protected].
The festival is open to all ages; children five and younger enter free when accompanied by a ticket‑holding adult.
Parking and Transportation
For the first time, Riot Fest provides an official parking lot at 1425 S. Western Ave., a Union Pacific property about a ten‑ to twelve‑minute walk from the park. General parking is $50 per vehicle per day, all taxes and fees included. A premium $65 option places cars closer to lot entrances. The lot operates 9 a.m. to midnight daily, with security, lighting, traffic management and portable restrooms.
Parking inventory is limited and available on a first‑come, first‑served basis. Advance purchase is recommended; day‑of sales are subject to availability. Additional street parking is scarce, so early arrival is advised. Nearby private lots and services such as Park Whiz and Spot Hero may offer alternatives.
Public‑Transit Guidance
Fest‑goers are encouraged to use public transportation. The CTA Pink Line serves the park via the California and Kedzie stations. Bus routes 12 Roosevelt, 49 Roosevelt and 94 California also stop near the venue. Links to schedules, service hours, real‑time trackers and system maps are provided on the festival website.
After‑Shows and Additional Activities
After‑shows will be held at venues across the city, including Metro in Wrigleyville, Concord Music Hall in Wicker Park, Cobra Lounge in the West Loop and Reggies on the Near South Side. Details and schedules are available through the festival’s official site.
For first‑timers, Riot Fest offers a guide to help plan the weekend, and a full lineup and schedule can be viewed online. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the festival for the first time, the event promises a vibrant weekend of music, community and Chicago culture.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
