Following a massive resurgence in popularity (because apparently, nostalgia knows no bounds), CREED is kicking off 2025 by bringing back their “Summer of ’99 And Beyond Festival”—a two-day rock extravaganza celebrating anthems from an era when frosted tips, wallet chains, and deep-V shirts were all the rage. But this year, they’re going even bigger: not only is the festival expanding, but CREED has roped in their fellow late-’90s titans NICKELBACK as co-headliners, ensuring that your teenage memories will be forcefully revived whether you want them to or not.
Taking place at the historic Alpine Valley Music Theatre in East Troy, Wisconsin, on July 18-19, the festival is a tribute to the days when CREED first graced the venue in 2000, and when NICKELBACK made their debut there in 2007. Because nothing screams “rock history” like two bands commemorating their separate milestone performances at the same venue. It’s also the first time the two bands will share a stage since 1999, presumably because the world just wasn’t ready for that much denim and soul-searching lyrics in one place until now.
A Very Special Interview with Scott Stapp: Why 1999?
In an exclusive sit-down (which may or may not have happened), frontman Scott Stapp revealed the real reason why every single CREED event seems to be named after the summer of 1999.
“Man, that summer changed my life. It wasn’t just about music. It was… personal. That was the summer I lost my virginity,” Stapp admitted, gazing off into the distance as if reliving a life-altering moment. “That night was so unforgettable. The way the stars aligned, the scent of cheap cologne and vanilla candles in the air… I keep hoping that somehow, someway, I can feel that again. Every time I step on stage and scream ‘With Arms Wide Open,’ I’m trying to get back to that feeling. That magic. That pure essence of youth and discovery.”
When asked if perhaps he should consider therapy instead of naming every CREED event after his personal milestone, Stapp shook his head. “This festival is my therapy. Every power chord, every pyro blast—it’s all me chasing that night. And now, with Nickelback joining us, it’s like the universe is telling me: ‘Scott, it’s time to relive 1999… again.’”
The Festival Lineup: Because Your High School Playlist Demanded It
Day 1 (Friday, July 18) is led by NICKELBACK, who will be joined by +LIVE+, DAUGHTRY, TONIC, OUR LADY PEACE, and LIT—bands you probably forgot existed until this very moment. Meanwhile, CREED will take center stage on Day 2 (Saturday, July 19), with 3 DOORS DOWN, SEVENDUST, MAMMOTH WVH, HINDER, VERTICAL HORIZON, and FUEL ensuring that every rock radio staple from 1998 to 2005 gets its time in the sun.
Two-day tickets will be available starting with an artist presale on Wednesday, February 19 at 10 a.m. CST. Additional presales will run throughout the week before the general onsale begins Friday, February 21 at 10 a.m. CST via Ticketmaster. VIP add-ons include premium parking, access to VIP clubs, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to listen to Scott Stapp reminisce about 1999 in an intimate Q&A setting.
So dust off your old CD collection, squeeze into those bootcut jeans, and prepare for the ultimate trip back to the greatest summer of Scott Stapp’s life. Because like it or not, the ‘Summer of ’99’ is never truly over.
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