Cold Waves returns this fall for its thirteenth installment. Running from Wednesday, September 24 through Sunday, September 28, 2025, the multi-venue event spans the Metro, Bottom Lounge, and Gman Tavern, bringing some of industrial music’s most defining names together with up-and-coming acts.
The five-day festival kicks off with two nights at Bottom Lounge before shifting into three stacked main stage shows at the Metro. Each evening is capped with late-night aftershows at Gman Tavern, which are free with a Cold Waves ticket, giving fans a chance to carry the energy long into the night.
Founded in 2012 as a tribute to Chicago sound engineer and musician Jamie Duffy, Cold Waves has grown into one of the country’s premier gatherings for industrial, EBM, darkwave, and experimental electronic music.
This year’s lineup features a wide range of highlights, from industrial pioneers like Front 242 and Nitzer Ebb to modern genre innovators such as Boy Harsher and Kontravoid. Festivalgoers can also look forward to rare appearances from cult favorites including Portion Control and Clock DVA, alongside a strong showing of Chicago independent talent that underscores the festival’s dedication to up-and-coming artists.
Don’t miss your chance to experience Cold Waves XIII when it takes over Chicago from September 24 to September 28, 2025. Full lineup, schedules, and tickets are available now at ColdWaves.net.
Location: Metro, Bottom Lounge, Gman Tavern
Dates: September 24–28, 2025
Age: 18+
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