If you’ve ever wished for a festival that celebrates music, nostalgia, and unbreakable bonds, the Best Friends Forever Festival might just be your dream come true.
Held in the heart of Las Vegas, Nevada, this event brings together legendary emo, indie rock, punk, and post hardcore bands for an unforgettable weekend of music and memories.
What Is the Best Friends Forever Festival?
The Best Friends Forever Festival (BFF) is an annual music event hosted at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center (DLVEC).
Known for its carefully curated lineup the festival blends beloved classics with fresh sounds, offering attendees a chance to reconnect with the music that shaped their lives.
Unlike many festivals, the Best Friends Forever Festival is famous for its two stage setup with no overlapping sets, meaning you’ll never have to choose between your favorite acts.
Think of it as a gathering of old friends not just the people you come with, but also the music itself.
Why Las Vegas?
Las Vegas offers a vibrant backdrop, with top notch hotels, entertainment, and easy access to transportation. The DLVEC’s open air layout makes it perfect for large crowds and creates an immersive experience.
Why Does the Best Friends Forever Festival Matter?
For fans of emo, indie rock, punk, and post hardcore, BFF is more than just another concert. It’s a celebration of eras gone by and the communities they created.
Many bands perform full album plays, farewell shows, and even first shows in over a decade, making this a rare chance to see them live.
It’s not just about the music. The Best Friends Forever Festival emphasizes creating moments you’ll treasure forever whether you’re reliving your high school anthems or discovering a new favorite band with your best friends.
Highlights of the Festival Experience
- Exclusive reunions: Some bands reunite solely for this event.
- No FOMO: The staggered schedule ensures you catch every act.
- Community vibe: Meet fans who share your passion.
- Merch & memorabilia: Take home exclusive festival merchandise.
2025 Best Friends Forever Festival
The second annual BFF returns to DLVEC on October 10–12. This year promises even more surprises, rare performances, and an electric atmosphere.
The Star Studded Lineup
Expect a mix of iconic and emerging artists, including:
- Jimmy Eat World
- Jawbreaker
- Minus the Bear (playing “Menos El Oso”)
- Rilo Kiley (special guest)
- Mineral (farewell show)
- Texas Is the Reason
- Cursive (playing “Domestica” and “The Ugly Organ”)
- Pedro the Lion (30th Anniversary)
- Superchunk, Tigers Jaw, Pretty Girls Make Graves, and many more.
With over 40 acts, the lineup pays homage to the past while welcoming new voices in the alternative music scene.
Schedule and Stages
Doors open daily at 12:00 PM. Thanks to the two stage layout, you’ll enjoy back to back sets without worrying about overlaps. Expect full album plays, first shows in a decade, and special tributes each day.
Tickets and Accessibility
Tickets are available online through S&S Presents, with options for single-day and weekend passes. The festival prioritizes accessibility, offering accommodations for attendees with disabilities.
Pro tip: Purchase tickets early many fans book months in advance due to limited capacity.
Planning Your BFF Experience
Attending BFF isn’t just about the music it’s about making the most of your Las Vegas adventure.
Travel and Accommodation
The DLVEC is centrally located, with plenty of downtown Las Vegas hotels just minutes away. Booking early ensures better rates and proximity to the venue. Many hotels partner with the festival to offer discounted packages.
Food and Drinks
Expect a wide variety of food and beverage vendors, from vegan bites to classic festival fare. Staying hydrated is crucial in the desert climate, so plan to grab water between sets.
Merchandise and Memorabilia
Festival-exclusive merch drops are a huge hit each year. Limited-edition posters, shirts, and vinyl records make perfect keepsakes.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Plan your schedule ahead of time; highlight your must-see bands.
- Dress for comfort think breathable clothes and sturdy shoes.
- Stay connected by following festival updates on social media.
Why People Keep Coming Back
The BFF isn’t just another festival; it’s a community reunion. Fans come back year after year because it feels like home a place where you can sing your heart out and celebrate music with thousands of like minded people.
It’s often compared to the When We Were Young Festival, but with its own intimate, nostalgia driven vibe.
Many attendees describe it as “a weekend of reliving the soundtrack of my youth with my best friends by my side.”
Emotional Connections
Imagine hearing a song live that once got you through tough times. Standing in a crowd where everyone knows every lyric can be a deeply moving experience creating bonds that last long after the festival ends.
How the Best Friends Forever Festival Fits into the Bigger Music Scene
In an era of massive festivals, the Best Friends Forever Festival stands out by focusing on curated experiences over sheer scale.
It brings together artists and fans from across the globe, reinforcing the importance of community in the alternative music scene.
For many bands, BFF is a chance to reconnect with loyal fans celebrate anniversaries, and pass the torch to the next generation of artists. It bridges the past and present of emo, indie rock, and punk.
Supporting Artists and Culture
By attending, you’re supporting not just big names but also emerging artists who carry forward the spirit of the genres we love.
Conclusion
The Best Friends Forever Festival is more than a weekend of music it’s a celebration of friendships, nostalgia, and the enduring power of alternative music.
Whether you’re reliving old favorites or making new memories, BFF offers an unforgettable experience.
If you’re a fan of emo, indie rock, punk, or post hardcore, mark your calendars for October 10–12 in Las Vegas. Bring your best friends and prepare for a weekend you’ll never forget.
FAQs
When and where is the Best Friends Forever Festival held?
It takes place on October 10–12, 2025, at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Can I see all the bands without schedule conflicts?
Yes. The festival uses a two stage setup with no overlapping sets, so you won’t miss a thing.
Are tickets still available?
Tickets are on sale through S&S Presents. Early booking is recommended as many tiers sell out fast.
Is the festival family friendly?
While the event welcomes all ages, it’s primarily geared toward adult audiences who appreciate alternative music.
What should I bring to the festival?
Bring your ticket, ID, comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a reusable water bottle. Lockers are available onsite.
How does BFF compare to the When We Were Young Festival?
Both celebrate alternative music, but BFF focuses on nostalgia, reunion shows, and no overlap scheduling, creating a more intimate vibe.