After a successful return in 2025, the Vans Warped Tour returned for its second consecutive year at the RFK Festival Grounds in Washington D.C. on June 13 and 14, bringing with it another massive lineup, thousands of fans, and the unmistakable sense of community that has defined the festival for decades.

Despite temperatures climbing throughout both days, attendees were treated to beautiful weather as they packed into the festival grounds for a weekend filled with music, skateboarding, and memories. Keeping with Warped Tour tradition, one of the first destinations for many fans was the iconic inflatable schedule board. As festival gates opened each morning, crowds gathered around the towering schedule to map out their day before sprinting toward their first sets.

Adding to the excitement, Warped Tour founder Kevin Lyman greeted early attendees alongside the beloved festival mascot Mosh Pete. Together, they counted down the start of each day, helping kick off the festivities with the same energy and enthusiasm that has become synonymous with Warped Tour.

There was no shortage of things to see and do across the sprawling festival grounds. With six stages hosting performances throughout the day, a half-pipe showcasing skateboarding talent, a nitrous circuit, vendor villages, and rows of artist merchandise tents, attendees had plenty to explore between sets.

Beyond the performances, the weekend also provided opportunities to connect with artists off the stage. Over the two-day festival, we had the chance to sit down and chat with several artists, including Of Mice & Men, Upon A Burning Body, Hoobastank, Codefendants, and Tillie, offering additional insight into the artists helping shape this year’s Warped Tour experience.

Vans Warped Tour Interviews with Bethany Couture

While some artists were making their Warped Tour debut, many familiar faces returned to the festival that helped launch or shape their careers. Acts such as Anberlin, Underoath, The Devil Wears Prada, New Found Glory, and The Used were among the returning veterans drawing large crowds throughout the weekend.

One of the standout moments came during Set Your Goals‘ set. A few songs into the performance, an inflatable Pop-Tart floatie and several oversized beach balls were launched into the crowd. Fans immediately understood the assignment as attendees climbed onto the giant pastry and crowd-surfed it all the way to the barricade, creating one of many of the weekend’s most memorable and hilarious scenes.

Another highlight wasn’t found on the stages, but among the crowd itself. Even under the summer heat, many festivalgoers went the extra mile with their outfits. Throughout the weekend, attendees could spot everything from Spider-Man and Mario to Fred Flintstone roaming the grounds, adding to the colorful and creative atmosphere that Warped Tour has always embraced.

Whether it was someone’s first Vans Warped Tour or their tenth, one theme remained constant throughout the weekend: community. For years, Warped Tour has been a place where people from all walks of life come together through a shared love of music, creativity, and self-expression. Walking through the festival grounds, it was impossible not to feel the sense of belonging that has made Warped Tour special for generations of fans.

As the final notes echoed across the RFK Festival Grounds and fans began making their way home, one thing became clear: Vans Warped Tour’s return is more than just a nostalgia trip. It’s a reminder that the spirit of the festival is still alive and well, continuing to unite music lovers in what feels like one giant family reunion.