Cruel World Festival

The Cruel World Festival is an established annual event held in May at Brookside at the Rose Bowl in California Pasadena. It was created in 2020 and is run by Goldenvoice. The event features new wave, goth rock, post-punk, and alternative rock. It grew quickly in popularity for its featured iconic bands from the 1980s and beyond. Some prominent bands that have performed at the event were Morrissey, Bauhaus, Blondie, Siouxsie, and Iggy Pop. The 2023 event was rescheduled for the following day because the event was interrupted by severe weather, and Siouxsie's performance was rained out.

Cruel World Festival Lineup 2025

The artists have yet to be announced. See the full list of performers here: cruelworldfest.com.

May 11, Saturday

Headliners: Duran Duran, Blondie, Placebo

French Police, Interpol, Adam Ant, Dreamcar, Heaven 17, Simple Minds, Soft Cell, The Jesus and Mary Chain, The Mission UK, The Stranglers, Gary Numan, Ministry, Model/Actriz, Harsh Symmetry, Nuovo Testamento, Patriarchy, Tones on Tail, Body of Light, and more

Cruel World Festival 2025 Schedule

When Will Cruel World Festival 2025 Be Held?

The official dates have not been posted, but we predict this event will happen around May 2025 based on the dates of 2023 and 2024.

When Will Cruel World Festival 2025 Schedule Be Released?

Detailed schedules tend to be released a few days before the start of the festival. 2024, Cruel World Festival announced their hourly schedule on May 1, which was 10 days before the festival. So make sure to check the Cruel World Festival website for the latest updates: cruelworldfest.com.

How Much Are Cruel World Festival Tickets?

You can find the cheapest Cruel World Festival tickets from $1,062.94 at Brookside at the Rose Bowl on May 10 on TicketX. Prices vary between packages and attendance days, so make sure you are checking the right option to get the most out of your ticket! Here are the prices, including tax and shipping, on the official Cruel World Festival site.

Cruel World Festival Ticket Price

Cruel World Festival 2023/2024 Review

The Cruel World Festival in 2023 boasted an impressive lineup with icons such as Siouxsie, Iggy Pop, Billy Idol, and The Human League. The festival was off to a promising start; however, it was abruptly ended due to a sudden lightning storm. After being rained out, it was rescheduled. In 2024, the lineup was once again impressive; Duran Duran and Blondie headlined, and other acts included Placebo, Interpol, and Gary Numan. The festival has managed to attract a formidable amount of fans due to the nostalgia of the 80s and the dark wave leading the way this year.

Fans had mixed feelings about the festival event, according to Yelp. The organization of the event was kind of appreciated. One attendee noted the great entry process, easy access to drinks, and short food lines. The atmosphere and stage were well received by fans: There were plenty of great spots to watch the music throughout the festival. On the other hand, for others, some fans commented on the very long merchandise lines, high product costs, and high drink prices. Another fan noted that the festival had improved the VIP experience, quoting the air-conditioned bathrooms and the merit of short queues.

How to Watch Cruel World Festival Online?

There isn't any offer to watch the Cruel World Festival online yet (as of July 3, 2024).

Cruel World Festival Outfits

For festivals, layering is a must. The weather is hot during the day and cool at night. For example, a pair of leggings and a jeans jacket complete any outfit perfectly – and keep you warm at the same time. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes. You'll be walking all day and won't miss out on your dance routine. Sunglasses and a hat, a small backpack, or a shoulder bag for your essentials. Clear bags let you get through security quickly. Since it's an outdoor event, don't forget sunscreen and a reusable water bottle. A phone charger is also a good idea. Wear clothes that make you feel confident and comfortable.