Iggy Pop and Bikini Kill Headline Oakland’s Mosswood Meltdown Festival

Experience punk legends Iggy Pop and Bikini Kill at Mosswood Meltdown in Oakland this July.

Punk Royalty Gears Up for Mosswood Meltdown

If you’ve been craving a festival packed with raw energy and iconic punk spirit, the Mosswood Meltdown in Oakland, California, is where you want to be this summer. Set for July 18-19 at Mosswood Park, this event promises to shake the very ground beneath your feet with legendary acts Iggy Pop and Bikini Kill as headliners. The festival will be hosted by none other than the delightfully eccentric director John Waters, adding a flair of quirky charm to the proceedings.

Iggy Pop bringing his timeless punk energy to stages in 2023 (photo: Tim Mosenfelder / Getty Images)

A Stellar Lineup That Celebrates Punk and Beyond

Beyond Iggy Pop’s magnetic presence and Bikini Kill’s fierce Kathleen Hanna-fronted performance, Mosswood Meltdown boasts an impressive roster of bands and artists that celebrate the rebellious, boundary-pushing spirit of punk and alternative music.

Here’s a taste of who’s joining the bill:

• Otoboke Beaver – Japan’s wild punk rock quartet known for their explosive energy and catchy chaos.
• Scowl – Hardcore punk band delivering brutal riffs and relentless speed.
• The Dirtbombs – Detroit’s garage rock stalwarts with their signature fuzz and soul.
• The Return of Jackie & Judy – A Ramones cover band featuring Fred Armisen alongside Sleater-Kinney’s Corin Tucker and Carrie Brownstein, promising a punk-infused tribute that’s not to be missed.
• The Dead Milkmen – Cult favorites known for their satirical and punk-inflected alternative rock.
• Frankie & the Witch Fingers – Psychedelic garage rockers bringing a trippy edge to the festival.

This eclectic mix reflects a beautiful cross-generational celebration of punk’s past, present, and future.

Pavement’s Surprise Return Adds Extra Buzz

Adding an exciting prelude to the festival, Pavement will headline a July 17 pre-party with special guests Wednesday and Vivian Girls. What’s remarkable here is that Pavement’s reappearance has been nothing short of a rollercoaster.

Initially, their October 2024 New York show was billed as their “last show for a long time.” But the band, led by Stephen Malkmus, surprised fans by playing several festivals, a warmup club gig, and even a spot on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert in 2025. They also helped promote the quirky offbeat film Pavements, keeping their eclectic legacy alive.

Following the Mosswood Meltdown, Pavement has scheduled more 2026 shows across cities like Portland, St. Paul, Chicago, Cleveland, Richmond, and Nashville, so there’s plenty to get excited about for indie rock lovers.

Iggy Pop’s Return to Coachella and Bikini Kill’s Rarity

For Iggy Pop, the Mosswood Meltdown is a continuation of his resurgence on festival stages, following his long-anticipated return to Coachella in April — his first appearance there in 23 years. There’s something electric about seeing a living legend like Pop, whose career spans decades and whose stage presence is nothing short of electrifying.

Meanwhile, Bikini Kill’s July show marks their first announced performance of 2026, coming after a sparse 2025 with just a single show. Fans of Kathleen Hanna and her band will be thrilled to catch this rare live moment.

The Festival's Vibe and Host

With John Waters at the helm as host, expect some unexpected whimsy and wit sprinkled throughout the weekend. Waters, famous for his cult classic films and razor-sharp humor, adds a layer of cultural cool that perfectly complements the festival’s punk ethos.

If you’re a fan of punk’s wild energy, defiant attitude, and genre-bending performances, Mosswood Meltdown is shaping up to be a must-attend event in 2026.

A Festival Worth Marking on Your Calendar

This event isn’t just a concert; it’s a celebration of punk’s undying spirit, legendary performances, and a community that thrives on music’s raw power. Whether you’re there for Iggy Pop’s electrifying presence, Bikini Kill’s feminist punk anthems, or Pavement’s indie rock comeback, Mosswood Meltdown is a festival that promises memories etched in sweat, guitars, and unforgettable voices.

FAQ

• Who are the headliners at Mosswood Meltdown?
  Iggy Pop and Bikini Kill are set to headline the festival.
• When and where is Mosswood Meltdown taking place?
  The festival runs July 18-19, 2026, at Mosswood Park in Oakland, California.
• Is there a pre-party event?
  Yes, Pavement will headline a pre-party on July 17, accompanied by bands Wednesday and Vivian Girls.
• Who will host the festival?
  Iconic filmmaker and personality John Waters will serve as the event’s host.
• Are there other notable bands performing?
  Yes, bands like Otoboke Beaver, Scowl, The Dirtbombs, The Dead Milkmen, and a Ramones tribute featuring Fred Armisen, Corin Tucker, and Carrie Brownstein are on the lineup.

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