I must admit I stopped getting excited for this "festival" a few years ago because of spotty talent and the best shows being played at my least favorite venue, The Congress. But wait, 2012 Riot Fest is a real FESTIVAL and includes acts like Rise Against, Iggy & the Stooges, Elvis Costello, Descendents, Gaslight Anthem, Jesus and Mary Chain, Built to Spill and many more solid artists. The Congress is still involved but I'll be sure to join in for the outdoor shows at Humboldt Park.
You can now get tickets and multi-day passes, so get on it!