Riot Fest is a three-day punk rock festival at Douglass Park in Chicago’s North Lawndale neighborhood. This year, the Riot Fest schedule is Friday, September 19 through Sunday, September 21, 2025.
Riot Fest is one of the one of the country’s largest music festivals that are still independently owned, which means you can always expect some fun surprises in the Riot Fest lineup.
Things to Do Near Riot Fest
If you’re staying in Chicago for the weekend but only attending one day of music, you’re probably wondering how to make the most of your time here! There’s more than enough to do in every neighborhood to fill your time around your Riot Fest schedule, but if this is your first time in the Windy City, there are some sights you need to see! Take the Pink Line to the Loop for these quintessential Chicago experiences:
- Enjoy the weather and view public sculptures like Cloud Gate (“the Bean”) at Millenium Park
- See the city from the 103rd floor of Willis Tower, the city’s tallest skyscraper
- Dive into Chicago history at the Skydeck Museum
- Take a tour of famous Chicago architecture along the river
- Shop to your heart’s content on the Magnificent Mile
Plan Your Visit With Skydeck Chicago
If you need any advice or assistance while planning your weekend in Chicago, we’re happy to help. Get in touch with our team today, and make the most of your visit this September!