Riot Fest organizers assessing damage in Douglass Park as cleanup begins

The weather didn't stop rock fans from attending this past weekend's Riot Fest in Douglass Park, but it did cause some hiccups.           

Now, organizers are assessing the damage as cleanup gets underway.

Crews have started clearing out the equipment and stages, but the founder of Riot Fest, Mike Petryshyn, told CBS Chicago in a statement that he'll work alongside the park district and the community to restore the park. He added, "Responsibility does not end when the festival does."

CBS News Chicago flew a drone over Douglass Park on Monday to see what was left after heavy rain led to a soggy event — turning the park into a giant mud pit with fans slipping, getting stuck, and even losing shoes.

Saturday's shows ended early — forcing the headliners to perform around 6 p.m.

Weather also caused Sunday's delayed opening as crews worked to make the grounds safe.

Before the event, organizers said preventative measures were taken, including bringing in 36,000 square feet of landscape fabric, mulch and extra protection beneath the stages.

Organizers say they are evaluating the damage and will announce when the park will reopen. They also met with Alderwoman Monique Scott about issues with drainage, plumbing and other conditions at Douglass Park and how to improve them for the long term.

The complete load-out is expected next Tuesday, weather and ground conditions permitting. Afterward, they plan to prep the soil, aerate, seed, grade and replace at least three acres of sod.

Tickets for Riot Fest 2027 on sale

In case you were wondering, tickets for next year's event are already on sale. Limited presale tickets are available until Monday at 11:59 p.m.

Dates for next year's event will be held Sept. 17-19. The official lineup for the show has not yet been released.