Vans Warped Tour has crossed the country each summer for over 20 years, combining skate culture and alternative rock music into a full day event – but 2018 marks the tour’s final run.
Since its commencement in 1995, Warped has acted as a staple in the music industry. Punk rock bands like Green Day, blink182, No Doubt and Sublime had the opportunity to take the stage, along with occasional appearances from pop and rap icons like Katy Perry and Eminem. It’s showcased huge musical acts, but also gave lesser-known bands the ability to gain exposure. The tour has grown to also include various genres: metal, pop, hip-hop, reggae and more.
On March 1, nearly 70 bands were announced for the farewell tour, including Warped veterans We the Kings, All Time Low, Simple Plan, Bowling For Soup, 3OH!3, The Used, Tonight Alive, among others. Thirteen special guest artists – such as Beartooth, Sum 41, and Taking Back Sunday – will only play a select number of dates.
Up-and-coming bands are one of the main reasons to visit Warped, and this year’s artists are ready to rock. Bands like Real Friends, Makeout, State Champs and Waterparks will take the honored stage, and hopefully, these groups will get the “big break” they were hoping for.
Among music, Warped also houses non-profit organizations on tour, allowing fans to engage in their companies and meet like-minded individuals. Those involved this summer include A Voice for the Innocent, American Red Cross, Hope For The Day, Feed Our Children Now!, Living the Dream Foundation, and To Write Love on Her Arms. This year, the FEND (Full Energy, No Drugs) will launch, empowering youth to take a stand against opioids.
Adorned with nearly 100 tents on-site, meet and greet opportunities, an insane amount of merchandise, and an energy like no other – this tour is certainly one to remember. Possibilities are around every corner – new friends, new music, and new opportunities to learn about organizations striving to make a positive different in the world. Warped is one of the festivals that really unites people – allowing fans to express their individuality while moshing, crowd-surfing, and screaming out angsty, hard-driven beats. It’s a zero-judgement zone and this 2018 tour is sure to not only bring new music to the scene, but reunite fans of some great bands from decades ago.
Parents are welcomed for free admission if above age 28 and will accompany a child under 16 – with a special “Reverse Daycare Tent” on-site. Additionally, free filtered water will be available throughout the park at Cool Gear Hydration Stations, and to beat the heat, Slip ‘n Slides will be open at weather-permitting shows.
Music-goers, it’s time to rock! Get hyped for a ten-hour day filled with great tunes, loud bass, and an electrifying energy in the air. Celebrate the farewell tour with friends, family, and new concert buddies this summer, kicking off June 21 in Pomona, California. The tour will cross the country throughout the blistering heat and wrap up on August 5 in West Palm Beach, Florida. You don’t want to miss this. Tickets available here.