Faygo, Puppies — And Tom Skilling? Check Out William Shatner’s Riot Fest Rider

DOUGLASS PARK — The Riot Fest community received the delightful news Thursday that nonagenarian William Shatner, the legendary Captain Kirk from the “Star Trek” franchise, will be appearing at the festival this year.

The 95-year-old performer will debut his new heavy metal band The *uckers in Douglass Park on Sunday, Sept. 20.

Friday, Riot Fest announced the details of Shatner’s elaborate rider, which includes demands like a classic Chicago food item named after him, a renamed boat so that he can once again captain a ship, many fire breathers, Faygo that won’t be shared with the Insane Clown Posse and an intro video created by Riot mainstays GWAR, an assortment of adoptable puppies and a bowl of sauerkraut, amid various other items.

Shatner also plans to co-anchor a weather announcement alongside legendary weatherman Tom Skilling, according to the rider.

Riot Fest fans will recall similar requests made by last year’s special Riot Fest guest, John Stamos, ahead of his agreeing to appear at the fest last year. Stamos demanded a John Stamos lookalike contest, a Greek-style pizza named after him and for fest founder Riot Mike to get a Riot Fest tattoo, among other items. His demands were met and Stamos appeared with the Beach Boys at the festival on Sept. 20, 2025.

Stamos appears on Shatner’s rider list, as one of the latter’s requests is a Montreal Canadiens hockey sweater signed by the “Full House” star. (Shatner is a Montreal native.)

Riot also dropped a short video Friday in which Shatner, looking remarkable spry for his advanced age, explains his reasoning for agreeing to appear at the festival. He closes by saying, “And don’t forget my sauerkraut, if you please!”

Entering its 21st year, Riot Fest returns Sept. 18-20 to Douglass Park in North Lawndale, featuring more than 100 artists across various stages.

Three-day passes begin at $339.98 for general admission. Single- and two-day tickets start at $99.98. Buy tickets here.