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Long Beach Today
By the People, for the People
Warped Tour Comeback Fights High Concert Ticket Prices
Founder Kevin Lyman aims to keep the iconic festival affordable and accessible for fans.
Published on Feb. 15, 2026
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Kevin Lyman, the founder of the iconic Vans Warped Tour, is bringing back the festival with a focus on affordability and community. As ticket prices for concerts continue to soar, Lyman is deliberately offering a two-day Warped Tour experience for around $150, inclusive of fees - a price point that feels almost radical in today's live music landscape.
Why it matters
The current live music industry is characterized by exorbitant ticket costs, prompting widespread frustration among fans. Lyman's approach directly addresses this issue, tapping into a desire for more affordable and accessible entertainment, while also maintaining the core values of the Warped Tour - community and inclusivity.
The details
Lyman acknowledges that the traditional, massive cross-country touring festival model is becoming increasingly unfeasible. Instead, the new Warped Tour will focus on destination weekends and expansion into international markets like Mexico and Canada. This shift represents a broader trend towards more localized and curated festival experiences, driven by logistical challenges and rising costs, but also allowing for a more focused and intimate experience for attendees.
- Warped Tour is set to return in 2026.
- The festival will take place in Washington, D.C., Long Beach, Orlando, Montreal, and Mexico City.
The players
Kevin Lyman
The founder of the iconic Vans Warped Tour, who is bringing the festival back with a focus on affordability and community.
Vans Warped Tour
The iconic punk rock festival that ran annually from 1995 to 2018, known for its community-driven atmosphere and diverse lineup.
What they’re saying
“I don't think you'll ever spot a touring festival the size of Warped Tour [again].”
— Kevin Lyman, Founder, Vans Warped Tour (newsy-today.com)
“I believe $150 for a two-day festival with 150 bands is a fair price, significantly lower than many comparable events.”
— Kevin Lyman, Founder, Vans Warped Tour (newsy-today.com)
What’s next
Lyman is actively recreating the community-driven atmosphere of the original Warped Tour, organizing free events like a recent block party in Long Beach that drew a crowd of 1,500 people.
The takeaway
Lyman's approach to the Warped Tour comeback suggests a potential future for live music where sustainability and community are valued as much as, if not more than, pure profit. This model could inspire other promoters and festivals to rethink their strategies and prioritize the long-term health of the industry.
