Riot Fest secures multi-year deal with Douglass Park; lineup coming soon

CHICAGO — Riot Fest announced that they have secured a multi-year deal to stay in Douglass Park.

In a press release, Riot Fest said they will remain in Douglass Park through 2027 with an option to extend through 2029.

The updated agreement will triple the park’s infrastructure funding, according to Riot Fest.

The Chicago Park District will increase its 10% contribution from Riot Fest revenue to 20%, which will be allocated for capital improvements.

In addition to the permit fee, Riot Fest will fund an additional 10% contribution to capital improvements in Douglass Park, according to organizers.

The approach is expected to generate more than $1 million for the park over the next three years.

“We’ve always built Riot Fest around independence, music, and culture,” said Riot Mike Petryshyn, founder of Riot Fest. “This agreement gives us the chance to keep doing that, and to invest more deeply in the neighborhoods that have allowed us to grow. It’s not about a single weekend. It’s about building something that lasts. We’ve been in Douglass Park for years, and this makes that presence more meaningful, more consistent, more connected. It’s for the residents who live here, the fans who’ve supported us and the communities that continue to shape who we are, and where we’re going.”

Riot Fest said they had support of 24th Ward Ald. Monique Scott and the mayor’s office.

“This partnership helps shift the narrative about historically disinvested communities and builds a brighter future for our youth, families, and local stakeholders,” Scott said. “This historic agreement isn’t just about one weekend. It’s about real, sustainable, and transformative change for Douglass Park. With an unprecedented 30% of the permit fees directly funding essential park improvements, Douglass Park is poised to become a premier example of community progress in Chicago, a vibrant reflection of our culture and collective potential.”

There was some drama in 2024 with changing venues.

After announcing a move in June from its longtime home at Douglass Park to SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, Riot Fest said in mid-August that they would return to Douglass Park.

The lineup will be announced on April 23.

Final pre-sale tickets went on sale Thursday at 10 a.m.