by A Green Day fan has reported a sexual assault incident involving his wife during the band’s Riot Fest performance. He shared his account on Reddit.
The fan detailed the incident that occurred during the Idles performance at the festival. He initially believed it was an accidental bump before learning the true nature of the assault.
“To the jackass who groped my wife by the Riot Fest barricade… It was during Idles,” the fan wrote. “I told you off because I thought you just accidentally bumped her trying to squeeze your way to the rail. You backed off, which was smart.”
The fan explained that he only learned the full extent of what happened after they had left the venue.
“Turns out, she just told me you groped her chest – as in, full-on squeezed,” he continued. “I didn’t know this, and unfortunately it’s too late to do anything about it, since we’ve left the park.”
The post concluded with a warning directed at the alleged perpetrator about future encounters at Green Day shows.
“But I’d like you to know that I don’t forget faces – and I certainly won’t forget yours,” the fan stated. “If I see you at a Green Day show EVER again, I will toss you straight over that railing. If you show your face and I happen to see it, I intend to f*ck you all the way up. So yeah, probably best you stay home next time.”
This incident highlights the ongoing safety challenges faced at major music festivals. These challenges are particularly evident at events as large and diverse as Riot Fest.
CBS Chicago reported that Riot Fest typically draws about 50,000 people annually to Douglass Park in Chicago. The festival features a wide range of punk and rock acts. The 2025 edition marks its 20th anniversary and features headliners like Green Day, Blink-182, and Weezer.
Riot Fest organizers emphasized community engagement and inclusive experiences. They designed diverse programming to create a safe and supportive environment for attendees. The festival’s commitment to fostering a welcoming atmosphere makes incidents like this particularly concerning for both organizers and the community.
Despite such efforts by festival organizers, incidents of sexual assault and harassment continue to plague large music events. The crowded conditions near barricades and stages create challenging environments. Fans compete for prime viewing spots in these areas. This can lead to situations where inappropriate behavior occurs and goes unnoticed by security personnel.
Riot Fest is contracted to remain in Douglass Park at least through 2029. The festival will continue to bring together a mixed crowd devoted to music and culture. The festival’s longevity and reputation in the punk and alternative music scene make addressing safety concerns crucial for maintaining its standing in the community.
The Reddit post has sparked discussions within the Green Day fan community about concert safety. Fans are discussing the importance of reporting such incidents to authorities rather than seeking vigilante justice, as the original poster suggested.
