Punk Rock Bowling, Las Vegas’ homegrown punk weekender, will not return in 2026. Festival organizers shared that recent challenges made a pause unavoidable. The team thanked fans for 25 years of support and said they expect to be back in 2027.
I feel like not enough people are talking about this? Or maybe its the right amount of people talking about it since interest may be waning? Either way, its a bummer because any chance to showcase live music, in the greatest city in the world, is always a plus regardless of how you feel about this music.
PRB began on Presidents Day weekend in 1999 as a bowling tournament and party organized by BYO Records and the Stern brothers of Youth Brigade. It grew into a four-day festival that drew thousands from around the world. The spirit stayed the same: DIY, community, and a love of loud, independent music.
This year’s 25th-anniversary run closed a major chapter. Alongside the shows, the team produced a retrospective book that looks at the festival’s roots, the people who built it, and why the scene still matters. The message is simple: punk isn’t only about stages; it’s how we show up for each other.
No PRB in 2026 leaves a hole in the calendar, but it’s also a call to action. Las Vegas’ punk ecosystem:bands, venues, record shops, promoters, thrives when locals participate. Keep the momentum going so the community is strong when PRB returns.
Here’s how you can help right now:
- Go to a local show this month. Bring a friend.
- Buy a record, shirt, or tape from a Vegas band.
- Share venue calendars and flyer drops on your feeds.
- Support independent promoters and pop-up events.
We’ll miss you Punk Rock Bowling. Its not goodbye forever, just I’ll see you later.
