Feeling extra rebellious lately? Perhaps even riotous? Excellent.
That means you're ready for the return of Riot Fest this September 13 - 15 in Douglas Park. This year the festival is pulling out all the stops for its 15th anniversary including Slayer’s final Chicago show, Blink-182 playing Enema Of The State in full and—of course—the glorious return of Bikini Kill. There's no better time to roll up to this festival, sip Deep Eddy Vodka cocktails and settle in for a full weekend of punk rock glory.
Whether you’ve been with Riot Fest from the beginning or you’re just joining the party, we’re excited to rock out with you this year. We’re old, so we’ve been at this a while. We’ve even managed to pick up some helpful tips along the way. We’re also nice, so we’re pleased to share them with you!
Photo Credit Madi Ellis
Wear Your Comfiest Shoes (Built For All Elements)
Given the nature of this fest, we didn’t think you were planning on wearing your stilettos in the first place but, just in case, take our advice: don’t. Douglas Park is big and beautiful but you’re definitely going to get your steps in walking from stage to stage. Plus, it might rain. Rain + dirt = mud. Don’t ruin your new favorite pair of Nikes. Dig your trusty “old faithful” sneakers or boots out of the closet. Your feet will thank you on Monday.
Photo Credit Sarah Joyce
Hearing Loss Is Not Punk Rock
When you’re not protecting ya neck during Wu-Tang Clan’s set, it’s a good idea to protect your ears, too. Invest in a pair of earplugs for the weekend. Even those super stylish orange foam-y dudes from the corner store will be better than nothing!
Enjoy Punk Rock & Paintbrushes
Our buds at Deep Eddy Vodka are hosting a very special Punk Rock & Paintbrushes exhibition on the festival grounds this year featuring works by your favorite artists such as Matt Skiba (Blink-182 / Alkaline Trio). Open to all festivals goers, the PR&P area will also host meet & greets and will benefit The Riot Fest Foundation and The Chicago Coalition For The Homeless. Stop by when you get to the fest for more info!
Photo Credit Likes This
CTA & Biking > Driving
This may surprise you, but the Chicago city limits are not full of vast, sprawling parking lots like the suburbs. Parking is limited in the Douglas Park neighborhood. Plus, you want to have a few cocktails. Don’t stress over parking. Don’t drink and drive. The CTA Pink Line’s California stop is just a short walk from the entrance. There will also be a bike lot for you to take advantage of.
Safety (And Fun) In Numbers
We’ve tried putting a little bell on our friends at festivals. It hasn’t been helpful when trying to find them. Download the “Find My Friends” app, squad up and rock out together. No punks left behind!
Photo Credit Madi Ellis
Support Your Local Artists
Sure, there are a lot of amazing, internationally-recognized bands playing Riot Fest this year, but don’t forget to rep Chicago! This year’s lineup features local acts Ganser, Kali Masi, Sincere Engineer, American Football and Monarchy Over Monday. Get familiar and do your darndest to catch their sets.
Photo Credit Taylor Nettnin
Don’t Get Caught Without A Charge
While many music festivals offer phone charging stations in this day and age, we don’t like being tethered to an outlet while we’re trying to see our favorite bands. Invest. In. A. Portable. Charger. (And don’t forget to charge that charger before the fest.) You’ll love it.
Photo Credit Sarah Joyce
Respect Your Elders
First off, raise a glass to the greats who left us too soon. Deep Eddy Vodka is offering two tribute cocktails at the festival—The Lemmy (vodka + sweet tea + lemonade) and The Oderus (vodka + fruit punch). Then, once you’re properly fueled get ready to honor every generation of punk. Learn the true meaning of “girls to the front” with Kathleen Hanna and Bikini Kill. Watch classic albums like Blink-182’s Enema Of The State and Avail’s Over The James performed in full. Join the biggest dance party of the weekend with disco pioneers Village People. Basically, just keep an open mind to music that’s older than Spotify’s New Music Friday playlist.
Photo Credit Kater Jayne Photography
Packing A Poncho Is Never A Bad Idea
We all know the weather in Chicago—it can change at a moment’s notice. If you get chilly easily, throw a hoodie in your bag. If getting soaked by a late-summer shower doesn’t sound appealing, a poncho might help. You know yourself better than anyone. Pack ahead and save yourself from regrets later.
Photo Credit Taylor Nettnin
Don’t Let Sunburn Ruin Your Weekend
Saturday morning is going to be a rough one if you wake up with sunburnt shoulders. SPF is your friend over Riot Fest weekend. Lather up!
Photo Credit Madi Ellis
Drink Up, But Stay Hydrated
We all love sipping a few Deep Eddy Vodka cocktails in the park, but do you know what pairs best with cocktails? Water! You’re going to be walking, rocking and sunning yourself a lot over the weekend. Don’t get dehydrated along the way.
If you follow these guidelines, there's only one way your festival experience could get any better.
That's by winning our Riot Fest Ultimate Prize Pack giveaway from Deep Eddy Vodka! Score VIP tickets to the festival + fanny packs full of weekend survival necessities like bandanas and hand sanitizer.
