Lollapalooza 2025 continued its tradition of delivering electrifying performances and unforgettable moments on its third day, solidifying its reputation as a premier music festival destination. From groundbreaking K-pop acts to a masterclass in hip-hop, the Chicago fest once again showcased an incredible breadth of talent, ensuring happy surprises for attendees and setting high benchmarks for live performances.
A monumental highlight of the day was the historic headlining set by K-Pop sensation Twice, marking their debut as the first female K-pop act to lead the festival. The nine-member group captivated their devoted fandom, Once, with an electrifying show that spanned their decade-long career. Fans illuminated Grant Park with waving light sticks, creating a vibrant sea of neon as Twice delivered pitch-perfect harmonies and perfectly crafted choreography, including anthems like “One Spark” and the rocking “Stuck in My Head,” culminating in an impressive drone show during their encore.
The continued ascent of K-Pop at Lollapalooza underscores a significant shift in the global music landscape, following pioneering headlining slots by J-Hope of BTS, TXT, and NewJeans in previous years. Each season, more South Korean acts prove to be indispensable lineup highlights, paving the way for diverse artists to reach broader audiences. Twice’s performance further cemented K-Pop’s undeniable impact and growing influence on the international music festival circuit.
Beyond the K-Pop phenomenon, Doechii commanded attention with a masterclass in hip-hop, transforming her set into an immersive “school of hip-hop” experience. Accompanied by dancers-turned-classmates, Doechii’s creative vision and formidable talent were on full display, as she pushed performance boundaries with intricate stage setups and an unwavering commitment to her artistry. Her animated vigor and the surprise appearance of Smino for a fiery “Alter Ego” demonstrated why her live performances resonate so deeply, announcing a new album and leaving an indelible mark.
Claire Cottrill, known professionally as Clairo, offered a more intimate yet equally captivating experience, opening her set by lounging with her band, inviting the audience into her world. Touring on her third album, she leaned into a retro, Seventies-flavored sound with tracks like “Second Nature” and “Sexy to Someone,” showcasing her evolving musicality. Fan favorites such as “Bags” and set closer “Sofia” rounded out a performance that highlighted her unique blend of indie pop with mature, sophisticated arrangements.
Adding to the day’s unexpected moments, Chance the Rapper made a surprise return to the Lollapalooza stage, reigniting his charismatic presence for a brief but impactful 15-minute set. The Chicago native charged through a medley of hits including “No Problem” and “All Night,” before turning his focus to promote his upcoming album, his first in six years, with new tracks like “Tree.” His appearance signaled a highly anticipated comeback, leaving fans eager for his new music.
Day Three also featured a diverse array of international talent, each leaving their mark on the festival. Japanese artist Fujii Kaze mesmerized with his charismatic blend of cascading melodies and suave dance moves, while Puerto Rican rapper Young Miko energized crowds with her Spanish-language set, featuring tracks from her breakthrough EP and collaborations. American trap artist BossMan Dlow also impressed, engaging the crowd with viral hits and showcasing his vision for modern trap music, proving Lollapalooza’s commitment to showcasing varied genres and global sounds.
Collectively, the live performances on Lollapalooza Day Three underscored the festival’s vibrant and evolving identity, seamlessly blending established stars with rising international acts. The diversity in genres and artistic expressions captivated attendees, reinforcing the event’s status as a cultural nexus where diverse musical narratives converge and create unforgettable experiences for music lovers from around the globe.
