For three ear-splitting days, Chicago’s Douglass Park will be overrun by punks, goths, emos and scene kids. Known as much for its reunion performances as for its snark, Riot Fest prides itself on being one of the last major independently-owned music festivals in the country. Although it seems like a festival rooted in Y2K nostalgia, organizers have done a pretty slick job of keeping things contemporary as young people continue to experiment with the genre 30 years later. This year’s lineup has not been released at the time of writing, though Riot Fest has confirmed a reunion performance by Slayer. Last year‘s headliners included Foo Fighters, The Cure and Death Cab for Cutie, plus over 90 punk, rock, alternative, metal and hip-hop performances across five stages.
The official prohibited item list gives you a taste of the classic RF cheekiness: yes, you may bring sunscreen, yes you may bring John Stamos, but NO cantaloupe and NO “Kid Rock’s stupid ass and any Kid Rock fans.” Cantaloupe aside, there are dozens of food vendors from Chicago staples like Dark Matter Coffee, Cafe Tola and Harold’s Chicken. If you’re looking around the crowd at Riot Fest and realize, “I’m not getting any younger,” you and your special someone can take a trip to the on-site wedding chapel. Last year, over 30 couples said “I do” while Canadian duo Tegan and Sara cooed on a nearby stage. That’s romance, baby!
Cheers to the newlyweds with an ice cold can of Riot Pop!, the festival’s own seltzer sold in spiked, non-alcoholic, hemp extract and CBD-infused varieties. The Riot Pop! Skate Ramp will house tricks from pro skateboarders shredding all weekend, right next to the tent full of free arcade games. And if that’s not enough to raise your blood pressure, you can opt for the Zipper or Tilt-A-Whirl for some brain-scrambling thrills. Still not convinced? RF has already issued their formal apology: “I’m sorry we didn’t book the exact bands you wanted, in the exact order you wanted, in the exact location you wanted, for free.”
The Specs
- 40,000 expected to attend for the whole weekend.
- 3-day GA passes are currently on sale for $210 each.
- Check out more of what Chi has to offer with Fifty Grande’s Chicago guide.
FAQs
What is the closest airport to Riot Fest 2024?
Fly into Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) or Chicago International Midway Airport (MDW). From there, the pink line will take you out to Humboldt Park or you can check out the local rideshare options.
Where’s the venue?
Douglass Park, 1401 S Sacramento Dr, Chicago, IL 60623.
Can I camp?
There is no camping available at Riot Fest. All ticket holders must leave at the end of each night.
Can I bring kids?
Riot Fest is an all-ages festival. Kids under 5 gain free entry when accompanied by a ticketed adult.
How can I pay for stuff at the festival?
Payment varies by vendor but historically, cash and cards have been accepted throughout the festival. There are also ATMs on site for last-minute withdrawals.
Which artists will I see at Riot Fest 2024?
Slayer will headline the festival. The remainder of the lineup is TBA.
Poster
