Weezer Celebrates 'The Gathering' Tour with Rooftop Pop-Up Gig

The band performed an acoustic set atop a Venice Beach cafe, kicking off a week of fan events in LA.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 1:37pm

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Weezer surprised fans with an intimate rooftop concert in Venice Beach on Friday, the first in a series of pop-up events the band has planned to mark their upcoming 'The Gathering' tour and the release of a new single. The five-song acoustic set featured classics like 'Undone - The Sweater Song' and 'Say It Ain't So', as well as a guest appearance from Best Coast's Bethany Cosentino.

Why it matters

Weezer's surprise rooftop gig is part of a larger 'Initiation Week' of fan events the band has scheduled around Los Angeles to build anticipation for their upcoming tour. By engaging directly with the local community, Weezer is aiming to create a more intimate, grassroots connection with their fanbase ahead of the major arena trek.

The details

The rooftop performance took place atop the Hinano Cafe in Venice Beach, with Rivers Cuomo and the band delivering an intimate five-song acoustic set for the gathered crowd. In addition to Weezer staples, the band also played their new single 'Go Away' featuring Best Coast's Bethany Cosentino. The rooftop gig kicks off a week of Weezer-themed events in the LA area, including a trivia night and a pickleball tournament with the band members.

  • Weezer staged the rooftop concert on Friday, March 28, 2026.
  • The band's 'The Gathering' tour is set to kick off on September 8, 2026 in Sacramento, California.

The players

Weezer

An American rock band formed in 1992, known for hits like 'Buddy Holly', 'Say It Ain't So', and 'Island in the Sun'.

Rivers Cuomo

The lead singer and guitarist of Weezer, who has led the band since its inception.

Bethany Cosentino

The lead singer of the indie rock band Best Coast, who joined Weezer for a guest appearance on their new single 'Go Away'.

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What’s next

Weezer will continue their 'Initiation Week' of fan events in Los Angeles leading up to the launch of their 'The Gathering' tour on September 8. The band is also set to release their new single 'Shine Again' on April 1, the first new music from Weezer since their 2021 album Van Weezer.

The takeaway

Weezer's surprise rooftop concert and week of community-focused events in Los Angeles demonstrate the band's efforts to build grassroots excitement and engagement with their fanbase ahead of their upcoming major tour. By creating these intimate, locally-driven experiences, Weezer is aiming to foster a more personal connection with fans before hitting the arenas.