There’s something iconic about Riot Fest, a unique blend of genres that brings together punk, hip hop, indie, and the bands that influenced these genres. Over the years, the festival has become synonymous with nostalgia, primarily through its legendary punk band reunions.

2023 promises to be a year that cements Riot Fest’s reputation. The lineup is a testament to the festival’s commitment to delivering unique, unforgettable experiences. From the final Slayer show in Chicago, an event that will undoubtedly be etched in the minds of metal fans worldwide, to the diverse mix of genres on display, there’s something for everyone.

The tragic passing of Taylor Hawkins sent shockwaves through the rock community. But in the spirit of music’s power to heal and unite, Dave Grohl made a decision to return to the stage, enlisting the incredible talents of Josh Freese to fill the void left by Hawkins. This will undoubtedly be an emotional and powerful performance, as Foo Fighters honor their fallen bandmate.

Riot Fest’s penchant for nostalgia will also be seen in The Postal Service’s performance. Their reunion will bring back the magic of the indie pop supergroup, evoking memories of their unique sound that had captured the hearts of many.

And then there’s The Cure. What more can one say about a band that has transcended generations and genres? For those who couldn’t catch them on the Lost World tour, Riot Fest offers what might be the last opportunity to see them perform in North America.

Line-up
Friday
Foo Fighters, Turnstile, Tegan and Sara, Say Anything, The Breeders, Kim Gordon, The Interrupters, Bayside, Ani DiFranco, I’m Silverstein, Parliament Funkadelic ft. George Clinton, Code Orange, Fake Names, Quicksand, The Wrecks, Hawthorne Heights, Braid, Yard Act, Screaming Females, Sludgeworth, Quasi, Just Friends, Bearings, Pinkshift, Olivia Jean, Calva Louise, The Aquadolls, FEA, The Bobby Lees, Young Culture

Saturday
The Postal Service/Death Cab for Cutie, Queens of the Stone Age, Mr. Bungle, 100 Gecs, Death Grips, 070 Shake, Viagra Boys, PUP, Sleep Token, Frank Turner and the Sleeping Souls, Pennywise, Insane Clown Posse, Head Automatica, Nothing,Nowhere., White Reaper, Eshu Tune, Enter Shikari, Bowling for Soup, Spitalfield, Jehnny Beth, Drain, Snapcase, The Exploited, Plosivs, Steve Ignorant Band/Crass, Warpaint, High Vis, Rival Schools, Corey Feldman, Enola Gay, Casyette, Pool Kids, CK Vassi, Total Chaos

Sunday
The Cure, Mars Volta, The Gaslight Anthem, AFI, The Used, The Dresden Dolls, Flogging Molly, Finch, Godspeed You! Black Emperor, L.S. Dunes, Gorilla Biscuits, Ride, Cults, Balance and Composure, Thursday, H2O, The Bronx, Microwave, Oso Oso, Origami Angel, The Black Angels, Nothing, Caroline Rose, Free Throw, Just Mustard, Hotline TNT, Earth Crisis, Empire State Bastard, Fleshwater, Fade ‘em All

Riot Fest 2023 isn’t just another music festival; it’s a celebration of music’s rich tapestry, a blend of the old and new, the emotional and the electric. This year promises to be not just a musical experience, but a journey down memory lane, rekindling old passions and discovering new ones. Don’t miss it.

Images of Past Riot Fest By

Photos:Chris Carrasquillo

  • Rob Zombie
  • Shawna Potter Of War On Women
  • The Vandals
  • Terry Hall Of The Specials
  • Wayne Coyne Of The Flaming Lips
  • Redman & Method Man
  • Fat Mike
  • Doyle
  • Trent Reznor Of Nine Inch Nails
  • Bernard Sumner Of New Order
  • Dennis Lyxzen Of Refused
  • Chino Moreno of Deftones
  • HR Of Bad Brains
  • Tim Armstrong Of Rancid
  • The Buzzcocks
  • Jeff Dean Of Airstream Futures
  • Pelle Almqvist Of The Hives
  • Peaches
  • MIA
  • Danzig

For those who think a day at Riot Fest isn’t enough, we’ve got good news for you. The fest’s electric energy doesn’t end when the sun goes down. In fact, it’s just the beginning of a longer musical escapade with the official Riot Fest after shows!

On the night of September 16th, before you gear up for the after-shows, the city will be pulsating with excitement in a unique blend of celebration. Experience the fervor of Mexican Independence Day merged with the euphoria that’s reminiscent of when the Cubs clinched the World Series. Chicago streets will be alive with vibrant parades, colorful fireworks, and the enthusiastic roars of its residents.

Music, cultural celebrations, and the spirit of unity – it’s a trifecta that Riot Fest 2023 promises. Start with the exhilarating performances during the day, let the city’s cultural festivities warm you up in the evening, and then dance your way into the official after-shows to round off a truly memorable night.

Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a culture aficionado, or someone looking for a fantastic time, Riot Fest 2023 has got something for everyone. So, strap on your dancing shoes, get your fest outfits ready, and be prepared to celebrate like never before!

Apart from its annual festivity, Riot Fest promotes year-round shows at various music venues across Chicago, maintaining its pulse on the city’s vibrant music scene.

Tickets On Sale for the festival and its yearly shows go Riotfest.org