Shaky Knees 2026 returns to Piedmont Park with Twenty One Pilots and The Strokes headlining

Festival dates set for Sept. 18–20, with Gorillaz also topping the bill

Atlanta’s Shaky Knees Festival has announced a 2026 return to Piedmont Park, scheduling three days of concerts for Sept. 18–20, 2026. The lineup is led by headliners The Strokes, Twenty One Pilots and Gorillaz, as the event continues its shift into a fall calendar slot after years as a spring festival.

Organizers say the 2026 edition will feature more than 50 acts performing across four stages throughout the weekend. Ticket presales are set to begin at 9 a.m. Eastern on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026, with a public on-sale planned to follow if inventory remains.

A multi-genre bill anchored by veteran headliners and high-profile undercards

The headlining trio reflects Shaky Knees’ long-running emphasis on major alternative and crossover acts. The Strokes are slated to headline Friday night, with Twenty One Pilots headlining Saturday and Gorillaz closing the festival Sunday.

Beyond the top line, the announced roster mixes established names with newer breakout acts. Notable performers listed include:

• LCD Soundsystem
• Wu-Tang Clan
• Pavement
• Turnstile
• Geese
• Japanese Breakfast
• Santigold
• Fontaines D.C.
• Modest Mouse
• Blood Orange

The festival’s announcement also highlights Georgia representation on the bill, including Conyers band Cartel and Athens group Hotel Fiction.

Ticketing structure expands beyond general admission

The 2026 ticket rollout includes multiple options spanning single-day and multi-day admission. Organizers list several tiers—general admission, GA+, VIP, Platinum and Ultimate—alongside group hospitality options such as three-day cabanas and bungalows. Layaway plans are also being offered, with a limited-time option beginning at $25 down.

Why the location and timing matter for Atlanta’s festival landscape

Shaky Knees debuted in 2013 and has moved among several Atlanta sites over its run, including Historic Fourth Ward Park and Central Park. The festival’s continued presence at Piedmont Park marks its second straight year at the venue following a 2025 relocation from Central Park.

Shaky Knees’ September dates place the festival in a period historically associated with large, city-park music events in Atlanta.

Additional operational details—such as daily set times, festival maps and transportation guidance—are typically released closer to the event dates.