PHOTO GALLERY: Midwest Punkfest XIII in Bloomington, Illinois

Midwest Punkfest made its triumphant return to the music scene in Bloomington, Illinois on May 29 and 30 after a multi-year hiatus.

The once-annual event seemingly disappeared in 2020 when live events were hit hard during the pandemic. A short time later, the closing of long-time Midwest Punkfest host venue Nightshop in Bloomington all but sealed the fest’s fate.

But it was finally resurrected in 2026 with print shop (and sometimes DIY music venue) Meltdown Creative Works opening its doors to two days of punk music.

The 2026 version of Midwest Punkfest marked the 13th edition of the event. Headliners included the Smoking Popes, Didjits and The Raging Nathans.

Here is a look back at some of the performances from this year.