The Summer Smash Festival made a triumphant return for its seventh year this past weekend, welcoming more than 100,000 fans to SeatGeek Stadium near Chicago for a three-day celebration of hip-hop, culture and community. Held June 20 through 22, the 2025 edition reaffirmed its place as one of the most distinctive and in-demand music festivals in the world.
Organized by Lyrical Lemonade and SPKRBX, the event showcased more than 60 performers across three stages, including a custom-built turf main stage and an indoor setup inside the stadium. This year’s headliners included Young Thug, Future, Don Toliver and YEAT, each delivering high-energy sets to massive crowds. Young Thug’s performance featured surprise cameos from Travis Scott and T.I., marking his first major appearance since 2022.
The lineup also featured Chance the Rapper, Lil Yachty, Sexyy Red, Saba, G Herbo, Trippie Redd, NAV and Quavo, along with cult favorites like Soulja Boy and Insane Clown Posse.
Fans enjoyed more than just music. The festival grounds featured art installations, carnival games, roaming performers and a towering Ferris wheel. A diverse culinary program, expanded from last year, offered food from over 30 Midwest vendors including Harold’s Chicken, Portillo’s and a Summer Smash pop-up restaurant with artist-inspired menus.
Beyond entertainment, the festival continues to serve as a major economic driver for the Chicago area, generating millions in local impact and boosting business for hotels, restaurants and small vendors throughout the region.
Visit TheSummerSmash.com and follow @TheSummerSmash for updates on next year’s event.