Chicago's RIOT FEST Stays in the City, Announces Move to Douglas Park...

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While I don’t live in the City proper, I’ve always identified as a “Chicagoan,” and have long looked at the annual RIOT FEST as a true Chicago tradition – one that’s spread to other cities, including Denver and Toronto. Having attended, and having seen it grow from small clubs to a multi-venue, week-long event (I covered and shot it back in 2011) that then morphed into the RIOT FEST & CARNIVAL, I (like many) was disheartened to see the fest being squeezed as part of a larger debate about its recent home in Humboldt Park. Today, that debate ends as far as RIOT FEST is concerned, as the 2015 RIOT FEST & CARNIVAL will stay in Chicago, moving south to Douglas Park.

RIOT FEST partners, Michael Petryshyn and Sean McKeough made the announcement this morning that the decision has been made, after weighing multiple options that would’ve likely taken the festival outside of the City limits.

“Music brings people of all different backgrounds together. It’s the melodies and lyrics that artists create that inspire us, motivate us, and maybe even more importantly, it provides a mixtape of important events in our lives. From WOODSTOCK to RIOT FEST it’s about unity and creating a positive community. It’s as American pie as you can get. We are excited that RIOT FEST has honored us by selecting Douglas Park as its new home. More importantly, the community is thrilled to say ‘welcome’ to the over 150,000 fans, artists and staff that make RIOT FEST possible. We look forward to working with RIOT FEST, Mike and Sean, and we welcome the economic impact RIOT FEST brings to the community.”12th Ward Alderman George Cardenas

Stay tuned for the official 2015 RIOT FEST lineup announcement next week. If you’ve been paying attention, it’s almost certain that FAITH NO MORE will be involved. To be continued…