Lollapalooza returns to Grant Park July 31-Aug. 3, bringing a star-studded lineup across multiple genres that promises something for every music fan. The four-day festival features more than 170 artists performing across eight stages. This year’s headliners span pop, rap, country, rock, electronic and K-pop.
Headliners star power
Pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo tops the bill alongside rapper Tyler, The Creator. Rising pop star Sabrina Carpenter, electronic group RÜFÜS DU SOL and country powerhouse Luke Combs round out the diverse headlining acts.
Olivia Rodrigo headlines fresh off her critically acclaimed “GUTS” world tour. The Grammy-winning artist will bring her emotionally resonant performances and powerful vocals to the main stage, drawing from both her “SOUR” and “GUTS” albums.
“I am really hyped up about the lineup, specifically that Sabrina Carpenter along with KATSEYE, Olivia Rodrigo and others that are performing,” said Gray Bunch ’25. “The one thing is though, I am not shocked that the tickets for four-day passes sold out quickly.”
History-making K-pop sensation TWICE brings their impeccable choreography and infectious energy as the festival’s first female K-pop headliners. The nine-member group continues the festival’s growing embrace of K-pop and Korean artists, with BOYNEXTDOOR and Korean rock band Xdinary Heroes also performing.
A$AP Rocky and nu-metal veterans Korn bring additional star power to the main stages.
Four-day passes and one-day tickets are currently only available on waitlist, with 2-day passes still available. Verified resale tickets are still available for all days. For those unable to attend in person, Hulu will livestream select performances. The platform will offer subscribers exclusive access to certain acts through two dedicated streaming channels.
Genre diversity
The diversity of this year’s lineup showcases Lollapalooza’s continued evolution, bringing together top artists from multiple genres to create an unforgettable weekend. Beyond the headliners, there’s something for every person.
Electronic music fans can catch Martin Garrix, while indie rock enthusiasts won’t want to miss Wallows. Hip-hop artist Doechii and Grammy-winning producer FINNEAS add to the eclectic mix.
The festival also features indie favorites like Gracie Abrams, Bleachers, Clairo and Dominic Fike. The Bleachers will deliver their signature nostalgic pop-rock anthems that feel like the soundtrack to the best coming-of-age movie never made. Clairo brings her dreamy bedroom pop to bigger speakers, while Gracie Abrams continues her rise with heart-on-sleeve lyrics that’ll have you in your feelings.
Festival survival guide
Lollapalooza veterans know preparing for the four-day marathon requires strategy. Here’s how to make the most of your festival experience:
Stay hydrated. Temperatures in Chicago during August often reach the 90s. Bring an empty reusable water bottle to fill at free water stations throughout the grounds. Bring a sweater as well because Chicago temperature tends to drop when the sun is down.
Pack smartly. Portable fans, wet wipes and hand sanitizer are essential. Sunscreen is non-negotiable for the daylight hours spent between stages. Learn the layout. Study the festival map before arriving. Knowing the quickest routes between stages saves valuable time when rushing between overlapping sets.
Establish a meeting point. Cell service often fails when thousands of people congregate. Agree on a specific landmark and time to reconnect if separated from friends. Mind your manners. Festival etiquette matters. Don’t block views with signs during performances and always help fellow fans who fall in mosh pits.
The biggest rookie mistake is trying to see everything. You can’t see everything, so don’t try! Pick your must-sees and build in time to rest.
Beyond the festival
Lollapalooza brings thousands of visitors to Chicago, but the city offers plenty to explore beyond Grant Park.
The Chicago Architecture Boat Tour provides a unique perspective of the city’s skyline. Guides explain the history behind iconic buildings while cruising the Chicago River. Nature enthusiasts should visit Garfield Park Conservatory, home to thousands of plant species in eight indoor display gardens. The Lincoln Park Zoo offers free admission and houses over 200 species.
Literature lovers can explore the Harold Washington Library Center, featuring stunning architecture and 10 floors of books and exhibits. For panoramic views, the Willis Tower Skydeck lets visitors stand 1,353 feet above the city in glass boxes extending four feet outside the tower. The Chicago Cultural Center offers free exhibitions and stunning architecture, including the world’s largest Tiffany glass dome.
No visit is complete without a stop at Cloud Gate, commonly known as “The Bean.” The sculpture in Millennium Park has become a favorite spot for celebrity sightings during Lollapalooza weekend.
Lollapalooza weekend brings Chicago’s attractions into the spotlight. The iconic event, which draws hundreds of thousands of attendees annually, remains a cultural touchstone that unites diverse artistic voices and audiences in downtown Chicago.
Tickets and additional information about Lollapalooza 2025 are available at lollapalooza.com.
