Warped Tour

The Vans Warped Tour was a legendary rock festival that traversed the United States every summer from 1995 until its final full run in 2018. Initially a blend of alternative rock, it pivoted towards a punk rock emphasis in 1996 while continuing to embrace a broad spectrum of genres over the years. The tour was the brainchild of Kevin Lyman and Ray Woodbury, with Vans joining as the main sponsor starting in 1996.

One of the tour’s distinctive features was its multiple stages and the tradition of a "BBQ Band" which would prepare post-show barbecues for everyone involved. As time went on, the lineup expanded to include pop-punk, metalcore, hardcore, and street punk bands. Each venue had its own setup, and the tour became known for its eco-friendly practices, utilizing biodiesel for its production buses.

To make the event more family-friendly and address concerns like transportation for minors, the tour offered free admission to parents starting in 2013. They also introduced a "Reverse Day Care" tent where parents could relax comfortably while their kids enjoyed the show. Additionally, the tour emphasized music education, offering free drum lessons and utilizing the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus for instructional purposes.

The Warped Tour was a launchpad for many now-famous bands, including Blink-182, Fall Out Boy, and Paramore. It also hosted the Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands and collaborated with various non-profits to promote causes such as animal rights, breast cancer awareness, and addressing sexual misconduct in the music scene.

Sponsored by Vans and Journeys, among others, the tour also released annual compilation albums featuring artists from the lineup. The Vans Warped Tour left an indelible mark on the music world, celebrated for its diverse acts, grassroots ethos, and commitment to emerging artists and social activism.