For nearly two decades, Pitchfork Music Festival has been more than just a lineup of bands—it’s been a celebration of art, culture, and community in the heart of Chicago. A festival where the indie spirit thrived, where emerging talent was showcased, and where fans from all over gathered to experience something unique. But after 19 years of creating unforgettable memories, Pitchfork Music Festival will not return to Chicago in 2025.
It’s hard to imagine a summer in Chicago without Pitchfork Music Festival, a staple of the city’s cultural landscape since 2006. Year after year, fans filled Union Park, ready to discover new music, support indie artists, and enjoy an atmosphere that was as much about community as it was about music. The festival wasn’t just an event, it was a gathering of like-minded people who shared a passion for the independent music scene. For 19 years, Chicago has been the festival’s home, and it’s impossible to overstate the impact it has had on the local and global music community.
The festival’s announcement made it clear: this decision was not easy. But as the music festival landscape continues to evolve, changes are inevitable. Pitchfork’s departure from Chicago marks the end of an era, but it’s also a moment to reflect on all the incredible memories the festival created.
From iconic performances by artists like Bon Iver, Solange, and Radiohead’s Thom Yorke, to unforgettable moments of discovery, the festival has always been a place where innovation met tradition. Over the years, Pitchfork has not only aligned with the editorial taste of its namesake publication but has also become a vital platform for emerging artists. It offered festival-goers the chance to be part of something intimate and unpretentious, yet monumental.
While Chicago will miss the festival’s familiar summer presence, this isn’t the end for Pitchfork’s event production. The festival team is committed to creating new spaces for music, art, and culture in the years to come, continuing to uplift communities through creativity and shared experiences.
SOCIAL LINKS
pitchfork.com • instagram.com/pitchfork • facebook.com/Pitchfork
