Riot Fest is a three-day music festival celebrating a diverse array of musical genres, primarily focusing on rock, metal, punk, and alternative rock. Occasionally, the lineups also feature novelty hip-hop, psychobilly, thrash metal, post-hardcore, and other unique genres. This festival not only boasts a stellar lineup of musical acts but also offers an array of entertainment options, making it a must-attend event for music enthusiasts.
Events and Concerts
Riot Fest 2024 features an impressive lineup, showcasing over 90 artists across five stages. As the organizers claim, attendees can look forward to performances from Fall Out Boy, Beck, Slayer, and many other notable bands. The festival is known for its diverse musical genres, including hip hop, psychobilly, thrash metal, and post-hardcore, ensuring a varied experience for all music lovers. Besides music, the festival offers carnival rides, sideshow performers, and an on-site arcade with free games. For those looking to relax between sets, there are plenty of food and beverage vendors, as well as merchandise stalls to commemorate the event.
Ticket Information
Ticket options for Riot Fest 2024 include General Admission, VIP, Deluxe, and Deluxe+ packages. General Admission grants access to all GA areas, carnival rides, and complimentary water stations, with prices starting at $99.98 for a 1-day pass and $249.98 for a 3-day pass. VIP tickets, priced higher, offer additional perks such as expedited entry, access to exclusive lounges, and private restrooms. Deluxe and Deluxe+ tickets provide a luxury experience, featuring dedicated viewing areas at all stages, complimentary open bars, air-conditioned restrooms, and personal concierge services. Deluxe+ ticket holders also enjoy access to a fully stocked private bar and complimentary massage therapists.
Parking
Parking options include Standard Parking at $39 and Premium Parking at $49. Both options are designed to ensure a hassle-free experience, with ADA parking available for those with verified permits. As the organizers highlight, parking passes are sold separately and do not include festival entry.
Location and Infrastructure
Riot Fest will be held in Douglas Park, Chicago, an urban park that provides ample space for the festival’s extensive setup. The main gates open at 11 am daily, with event curfews set at 11:15 pm on Friday and Saturday, and 10:30 pm on Sunday. For those traveling from out of town, Douglas Park is accessible by public transit, and the festival offers a shuttle service from various locations around the city. Shuttle passes start at $30 for a round trip.
Festival History
Founded in 2005, Riot Fest began as a multi-venue event in Chicago, primarily focusing on punk rock. Over the years, it has evolved to include a broader range of genres and has expanded to cities like Denver and Toronto. The festival is known for its diverse lineups and unique attractions, such as carnival rides and sideshows. Notable past performances have included iconic bands like Foo Fighters, Death Cab for Cutie, The Cure, and The Smashing Pumpkins, solidifying Riot Fest’s reputation as a must-attend event for music enthusiasts.
