TWENTY ONE PILOTS, THE STROKES, AND GORILLAZ TO HEADLINE SHAKY KNEES 2026 LINEUP

Shaky Knees Music Festival has officially unveiled the lineup for its 13th edition, set to take over Atlanta’s Piedmont Park from September 18-20, 2026. This year’s world-class roster features headliners Twenty One Pilots, The Strokes, and Gorillaz, leading a diverse bill of over 50 performances across four stages.

TL;DR: Atlanta’s premier indie-rock festival, Shaky Knees, returns this September with heavyweights The Strokes, Gorillaz, and Twenty One Pilots. The lineup features a massive undercard including LCD Soundsystem, Wu-Tang Clan, and Knocked Loose. Presale begins Thursday, February 26 at 9 AM ET.

Shaky Knees Music Festival Quick Facts

• Event: Shaky Knees Music Festival 2026

• Dates: September 18–20, 2026

• Location: Piedmont Park, Atlanta, GA

• Headliners: Twenty One Pilots, The Strokes, Gorillaz

• Top Undercard: LCD Soundsystem, Pierce The Veil, Turnstile, Wu-Tang Clan, The Prodigy, Danny Elfman, and Pavement.

• Primary Ticketing: ShakyKneesFestival.com/Tickets

Ticketing & Presale Information

• Presale Access: Begins Thursday, February 26 at 9:00 AM ET. Fans must sign up for the SMS list at ShakyKneesFestival.com to receive a passcode.

• Early Bird Guarantee: The lowest prices are guaranteed for the first hour only (9 AM – 10 AM ET).

• Ticket Types: 1-Day, 2-Day, and 3-Day options available across GA, GA+, VIP, Platinum, and Ultimate tiers.

• Layaway Plans: Available for a limited time starting at just $25 down.

• Public On-sale: Any remaining tickets will be released to the general public immediately following the presale.

The Backspin HQ Perspective

Shaky Knees 2026 is an absolute masterclass in genre-fluid programming. By securing The Strokes (indie royalty), Gorillaz (alternative pioneers), and Twenty One Pilots (modern arena titans), the festival is casting a wide net that captures multiple generations of fans. However, the real story here is the depth of the undercard. Pulling Danny Elfman, Pavement, and The Prodigy onto the same bill as hardcore heavy-hitters like Turnstile and Knocked Loose proves that Shaky Knees remains the most curated and distinct alternative festival in the Southeast. Moving to the fall slot (September) also offers a much-needed reprieve from the Atlanta summer heat, likely making this the most comfortable and sought-after edition in years.

Shaky Knees 2026 Lineup Highlights

• Headliners: Twenty One Pilots, The Strokes, Gorillaz

• Direct Support: LCD Soundsystem, Wu-Tang Clan, The Prodigy, Pavement

• Rock & Alternative: Modest Mouse, Jimmy Eat World, Fontaines D.C., Modest Mouse, Geese, Blood Orange

• Heavy & Hardcore: Pierce The Veil, Turnstile, Knocked Loose, Hot Mulligan

• Special Performance: Danny Elfman

For the full list of 50+ artists across four stages, visit the official festival website.

FAQ: Shaky Knees 2026 Logistics

What are the benefits of the GA+ and VIP tiers?

GA+ offers access to a centrally located lounge with views of the Peachtree and Piedmont stages, air-conditioned restrooms, and a private bar. VIP takes it further with dedicated viewing areas at three stages, on-field access, lockers, and a dedicated festival entrance lane.

What is included in the "Ultimate" package?

The Ultimate package is the most exclusive one-person tier. It includes all Platinum amenities plus exclusive on-stage viewing at the two main stages, golf cart transportation between stages, and a ticket to an official Shaky Knees Late-Night Show.

Is the festival accessible by public transit?

Yes. Piedmont Park is located in Midtown Atlanta and is highly accessible via MARTA. Fans are encouraged to use public transit or rideshare apps as parking near the park is extremely limited.

How do late-night shows work?

Shaky Knees typically hosts "Late-Night Shows" at various Atlanta venues (like The Masquerade or Tabernacle) after the park gates close. These are separately ticketed events, though "Ultimate" ticket holders receive one complimentary ticket to a show of their choice.