Black background with yellow and black checkered borders at the top and bottom, resembling a caution tape design.

I DON’T WANNA GO FEST 4

JANUARY 7 - 10, 2027

CHICAGO, IL

Pixelated graphic poster for a festival, featuring the words 'Dead Fest 2023' in large yellow letters on a black and red background with additional yellow and black text and decorative art elements.

BAND SUBMISSIONS NOW CLOSED!

About IDWGF

I Don't Wanna Go Fest (IDWGF) was born in January 2024 when Chicago punk trio Speed Babes hosted a four night run at Reed's Local in Avondale. Inspired by the spirit of Ian's Party and the void it left after COVID, Speed Babes set out to create a weekend that celebrated local bands. They played an opening set each night and highlighted an additional dozen acts from across the Chicago music scene.

The fest returned in January 2025, and by 2026 it had expanded to two venues with Reed's Local and Burlington Bar each hosting four nights, giving over 30 bands a stage to play featuring acts across multiple genres including punk, indie, shoegaze, and hip-hop.

Now heading into its fourth year, IDWGF is continuing the tradition January 7-10, 2027. Lineup and venue announcements coming soon. Check back here for updates!

IDWGF3 was featured in the Chicago Reader. Read the article