Why Twenty One Pilots Are a Must-See at Riot Fest 2026

Article and photos by Wendy Davis

For almost fourteen years, Chicago has been one of the original stomping grounds for iconic rock favorites Twenty One Pilots. Ever since 2012, even before the release of their major-label debut album, Vessel, this Ohio-born duo has made Chicago one of its regular stops. Performing at venues of all sizes — from Bottom Lounge to House of Blues, Tinley Park and the United Center — these two have successfully made every show a core memory for countless fans.

Despite their massive rise to fame, lead singer Tyler Joseph and drummer Josh Dun have never lost sight of their roots or what’s most valuable to them: their one-of-a-kind fanbase. Or, as Tyler has called it, “a really good group.” Even with about twenty appearances in Chicago, we’ve only seen them on the festival stage three times for various Lollapalooza sets. But this week, we’re lucky to have them headline the ultimate rock fest (AKA the coolest fest) in the city. On Friday, September 18, Twenty One Pilots will finally take the stage at Riot Fest. Here is why their set is a must-see.

It’s an understatement to say these two really care about their fans. Their commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience through production elements like stage design, incorporating fans into their shows and even the order of their setlist is unlike that of most other artists. Each tour has had its own special elements, making every concert experience unique for fans who return every time (which is many of them). The tour that the band is currently finishing up with this festival run has been known for keeping the crowd on its toes, no matter where fans stand in the venue.

There are plenty of main-stage elements that grab attention throughout the show, like Tyler opening their set with a gravity-defying jump over the piano and eyebrow-singeing pyro. But even those who aren’t on the barricade get a front-row seat to the action. A few times, Tyler and Josh make their way through the crowd to a B-stage toward the back, which is currently set with a flaming car, of course.

As they play their song “Drum Show,” an ode to Josh on their most recent release, Breach, he makes his way up a tall ladder next to the stage to a minimal drum set placed at the top, where he finishes the song looking over the crowd. It’s a stunt more typical of Tyler, who has been known to perform disappearing-act tricks and reappear on a balcony hidden among the audience.

To take it a step further and ensure everybody plays a part in their show, there are many points when Tyler grabs people from the audience to give them their own moments of appreciation. This tour, he’s brought kids onstage to finish their iconic song “Ride,” gathered groups of fans dressed in band cosplay for “Chlorine,” and even played special videos of fans giving “thank you” messages while waiting outside the venues, all recorded that day.

Pilots With such a massive, highly beloved discography, the band carefully curates a well-balanced setlist consisting of new releases and fan-favorite oldies for each tour. Sometimes they’ll throw in an early heavy-hitter or two, which always sends the die-hard fans into a tailspin of emotion.

So, even if you aren’t familiar with Twenty One Pilots, or you only know “Stressed Out,” watching their shows is still an awe-inspiring, emotional experience. Just the production alone is enough to blow you away, but witnessing the added layer of unconditional passion and admiration from the fans takes it to a whole other level.

They conjure a space where the weird kids are not only welcome but essential. With many of their songs centered around mental health and celebrating the odd one out, loyal fans across the globe have found a safe space with the Pilots, sticking by their side from the moment they discover the band.

In fact, it’s kind of difficult to meet a “casual listener” of this band — there’s just something so genuine and connective about their messaging that has created a community that’s rare to see with an artist this mainstream. At the shows, in addition to the usual band merch, you’ll find fans dressed in full-on red eye makeup, with black-painted hands and necks, tattered trench coats, green wartime clothing, and red and yellow duct tape stuck wherever it will hold.

It all looks a little cryptic from the outside, but these are really just nods to niche references within the band’s intricate storyline. What makes them so unique, though, is that the fan support extends far beyond the band — they have each other’s backs just as much.

Even if it’s your first time at one of their shows, arriving can feel like entering a room full of like-minded people who have your back as though you’ve been there all along. Like a giant nerdy after-school club, being surrounded by your people, who you didn’t even know existed in these numbers, immediately lets your guard down. No judgments, just compliments, trading artwork and bracelets, taking photos for one another, and endless kind words. A Twenty One Pilots fan is an instant friend, no questions asked. Just like Tyler said, they’re a good group, to say the least.

Both Tyler and Josh have acknowledged countless times how these shows have become more than anything they ever imagined in their careers. From playing basement DIY shows in their hometown of Columbus, Ohio, to performing for roughly 65,000 fans at a stadium in Mexico City, they’ve famously preached since the start: “Anyone from anywhere can do anything.” No matter how big they’ve gotten, they have never stopped cheering on their fans and cheering on one another as best friends, and that’s just one of the many reasons why they’ve become so inspirational.

“Chicago! We’ve been playing here a loooooong time. I have a feeling a lot of you in this room have been here since the beginning,” Tyler announced onstage during one of their United Center stops in 2024, followed by a roaring crowd.

Where people from all walks of life unite and the happy tears fall like the confetti during “Trees,” a Twenty One Pilots show is a must-do for all. We may be biased, but we can confidently say that Chicago is home to some of the most hyped, dedicated crowds in music as well. Do not miss Twenty One Pilots at Riot Fest this year on September 18!

Check out more great articles here!