Chicago’s long-running Riot Fest has announced plans to move to Chicago’s Douglas Park, a surprise move following its announcement that it would be moving to SeatGeek Stadium in the Chicago suburb of Bridgeview.
Riot Fest organizers announced the move in a statement on Wednesday.
With the tremendous support of the city of Chicago and our fans, we are excited to announce our return to Chicago and Douglas Park.
Without Chicago, there would be no Riot Fest.
As we continue to build a long-term partnership with the City of Chicago, we remain focused on our shared vision of stability and growth in the neighborhoods we call home. We are deeply grateful for the support of Mayor Johnson, Councilman Scott, the Chicago Park District, and the North Lawndale and Little Village communities.
We’re not just coming home. We’re coming back stronger, with a greater purpose, redoubling our commitment to Chicago, our fans, and our community. Riot Fest was born and raised here. This is where we belong.
The move back to downtown Chicago comes just two months after festival co-founder Mike “Riot Mike” Petryshyn announced plans to move the festival to SeatGeek after struggling to get a permit from the city of Chicago.
“A few weeks ago, I got tired of it. I got tired of Riot Fest continuing to be the low-hanging fruit. I got tired of playing their games. I got tired of seeing the things I love being used to further their internal flaws. It stopped us from delivering the experience you deserve.
“So it became clear that a change was needed. Riot Fest would be leaving Douglass Park. And — and I say this as clearly as the deepest summer blue sky — our departure is due solely to the Chicago Park District. The community, and you, and their lack of care for us ultimately left us with no choice.”
Riot Fest 2024 takes place September 20-22 in Chicago’s Douglas Park, and the lineup includes Fall Out Boy, Beck, Pavement, Slayer, The Offspring, and Public Enemy.
