Weezer headlined day two of Riot Fest, but the Beach Boys stole the show, joined by John Stamos. It was Stamos’ first appearance at Riot Fest after years of online provocation by the festival. Stamos put in work onstage, jumping between the drums, guitar, and vocals for a joyful set of the Beach Boys’ sunny hits like “God Only Knows” and “Surfin’ U.S.A.” Singing along to “Good Vibrations” with a sunset backdrop was the magical festival moment we all needed.
Gwar brought their intergalactic metal to reign terror and blood over their adoring legions, beheading both Elon Musk and Donald Trump and birthing Taylor Swift’s spawn. Bouncing Souls frontman Greg Attonito lunged into the crowd barrier to fist bump a crowd surfing fan while delivering “True Believers” during their album play of How I Spent My Summer Vacation. Jack White’s guitar pierced the night sky delivering fan favorites from across his career like “Icky Thump,” “Steady, as She Goes,” and “Seven Nation Army.” Weezer teased with tracks like “Hash Pipe” and “Beverly Hills” in a space-themed set before blasting off with a full album play of The Blue Album.
Jessica Mlinaric founded Urban Explorer in 2010 to inspire curious travelers by highlighting history, culture, and hidden gems in Chicago and beyond. She is the author of ‘Secret Chicago’ and ‘Chicago Scavenger,’ and she has contributed to several travel guidebooks. Jessica has visited 20+ countries and 30+ U.S. states. She has more than 16 years of experience as a marketing strategist and works as a freelance writer and photographer.
