Atlanta’s beloved Shaky Knees Music Festival is back with a star-studded lineup for its 13th edition, returning to Piedmont Park in September 2026. The three-day celebration of alternative and indie music will run from September 18 through 20, bringing a riveting mix of established artists and fresh favorites to the festival’s four stages.
Headlining the event are some of the biggest names in modern rock and alternative music. The Strokes will kick off the weekend with a Friday night performance, bringing their influential indie rock sound to Atlanta. Twenty One Pilots takes the Saturday slot, promising high-energy, genre-blending sets for their dedicated global fan base. The festival will close out on Sunday with Gorillaz, the genre-defying virtual band known for its eclectic fusion of styles.
Beyond the headliners, the Shaky Knees lineup spans a wide range of sounds. Festivalgoers can catch veteran dance-punk icons LCD Soundsystem, punk-inspired Grammy winners Turnstile, hip-hop legends Wu-Tang Clan, ’90s indie stalwarts Pavement, and nu-wave favorites like Japanese Breakfast. Rising acts such as Geese and boundary-pushing artists like Santigold add fresh energy to the bill.
With more than 50 acts scheduled across multiple stages, this year’s festival blends classic rock influences with modern alternative trends, appealing to long-time fans and new audiences alike. Tickets go on presale starting February 26, with options ranging from standard general admission to VIP and premium packages, and convenient layaway plans have been introduced to make attendance easier for more fans.
As Shaky Knees settles into Piedmont Park for a second year following its move from other Atlanta parks, attendees can look forward to the festival’s signature blend of eclectic music, enthusiastic crowds, and vibrant city atmosphere.