The Just Like Heaven Festival is back, and it’s shaping up to be a nostalgic indie rock paradise. Set for Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Brookside at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, this year’s edition promises to be a landmark event for fans of early 2000s and 2010s alternative music. Headlined by Vampire Weekend and featuring a rare reunion performance by Rilo Kiley, the festival is a love letter to the era of skinny jeans, jangly guitars, and heartfelt lyrics. With gates opening at 12:00 PM, the day-long celebration will bring together a curated lineup of iconic acts, vibrant energy, and the sunny Southern California backdrop that makes Just Like Heaven a must-attend event.
A Nostalgic Lineup for the Ages
Just Like Heaven Festival has built a reputation for delivering lineups that tap into the collective nostalgia of millennial and Gen Z music fans. The 2025 edition is no exception, with Vampire Weekend and Rilo Kiley leading the charge. These two bands, each pivotal in shaping the indie rock landscape, offer a perfect blend of modern relevance and throwback charm.
Vampire Weekend, the New York-based quartet known for their cerebral yet catchy sound, will headline the festival. Since bursting onto the scene in 2008 with their self-titled debut, Vampire Weekend has been a defining force in indie rock. Albums like Contra and Modern Vampires of the City delivered hits such as “A-Punk,” “Oxford Comma,” and “Diane Young,” blending preppy aesthetics with global influences like Afrobeat and chamber pop.
Their 2024 album, Only God Was Above Us, was met with critical acclaim for its introspective lyrics and lush instrumentation, proving the band remains as vital as ever. At Just Like Heaven, expect a setlist that spans their discography, from early anthems to newer gems, all performed with the tight musicianship and infectious energy that make their live shows legendary.
The real buzz, however, surrounds Rilo Kiley’s reunion. The Los Angeles band, fronted by Jenny Lewis and Blake Sennett, hasn’t performed together since their breakup in 2011. Known for their emotionally raw songwriting and genre-defying sound, Rilo Kiley’s discography—including The Execution of All Things and More Adventurous—remains a touchstone for indie fans. Songs like “Portions for Foxes,” “Silver Lining,” and “With Arms Outstretched” are timeless, capturing the messy beauty of love, loss, and growing up.
The band’s decision to reunite for Just Like Heaven is a massive coup for the festival, and their performance is sure to be a highlight, especially in their hometown region. Fans are already speculating about whether Jenny Lewis will bring her signature wit and charisma to the stage, and if the setlist will include deep cuts or even new material.
While Vampire Weekend and Rilo Kiley are the marquee names, the festival’s full lineup is stacked with other indie darlings and cult favorites. Though additional acts haven’t been fully announced, past Just Like Heaven festivals have featured bands like Yeah Yeah Yeahs, MGMT, and The Shins, so expect a roster that complements the headliners’ vibe. The festival’s knack for curating cohesive lineups ensures that every set will feel like a trip down memory lane, with enough modern flair to keep things fresh.
The Venue: Brookside at the Rose Bowl
The choice of Brookside at the Rose Bowl as the festival’s venue is no accident. Located in Pasadena, just a short drive from Los Angeles, this sprawling outdoor space is iconic for hosting major music and sporting events. The Rose Bowl’s lush surroundings, with views of the San Gabriel Mountains, create a picturesque setting for a day of music. The Brookside area, adjacent to the main stadium, offers ample space for multiple stages, food vendors, and chill zones, making it ideal for a festival of this scale.
Attendees can expect a well-organized setup with clear sightlines and solid sound quality, based on feedback from previous years. The venue’s open layout allows for easy movement between stages, so you won’t miss a note whether you’re catching Vampire Weekend’s headlining set or discovering a new band on a smaller stage. With the festival kicking off at noon, there’s plenty of time to soak in the music, grab a craft beer, or snap Instagram-worthy photos against the backdrop of palm trees and sunset skies.
What to Expect: The Just Like Heaven Experience
Just Like Heaven Festival is more than just a concert—it’s a vibe. The event is designed to evoke the carefree spirit of the indie rock era, with a focus on community, discovery, and fun. Here’s what attendees can look forward to:
- Music All Day Long: With gates opening at 12:00 PM, the festival will feature back-to-back performances across multiple stages. The schedule will likely be released closer to the date, but expect a mix of high-energy headliners and up-and-coming acts to keep the energy flowing.
- Food and Drinks: Pasadena’s food scene will be well-represented, with vendors offering everything from gourmet tacos to vegan bowls. Past festivals have included local favorites and festival staples, ensuring there’s something for every palate. Bars and beverage stations will serve craft cocktails, local beers, and non-alcoholic options to keep you hydrated under the California sun.
- Vibes and Aesthetics: Just Like Heaven leans into its retro aesthetic, encouraging attendees to dress in their best indie-inspired outfits. Think floral dresses, vintage tees, and plenty of sunglasses. The festival grounds will likely feature photo booths, art installations, and merch stands where you can snag exclusive band tees or festival swag.
- Community Spirit: One of the festival’s biggest draws is its sense of camaraderie. Whether you’re singing along to “Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa” with strangers or reminiscing about Rilo Kiley’s early days, the crowd at Just Like Heaven is known for being friendly and inclusive.
Tickets and Logistics
Tickets for Just Like Heaven Festival 2025 are available through Ticketmaster, with a note that resale tickets may exceed face value. Prices haven’t been fully disclosed, but past festivals have offered a range of options, from general admission to VIP packages with perks like exclusive viewing areas and private bars. Given the hype around Rilo Kiley’s reunion and Vampire Weekend’s headlining slot, tickets are expected to sell quickly, so keep an eye on the festival’s official website and social media for updates on sales and pricing.
For out-of-town attendees, Pasadena is easily accessible from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about a 30-minute drive. The city offers a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to boutique stays, and public transit like the Metro Gold Line can get you close to the venue. Rideshare services will also have designated drop-off and pick-up zones to streamline your arrival and departure.
Why You Can’t Miss Just Like Heaven 2025
The Just Like Heaven Festival 2025 is poised to be a defining moment for indie rock fans. Vampire Weekend’s headlining set will deliver the polished, genre-blending performance they’re known for, while Rilo Kiley’s reunion is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a beloved band back in action. The Brookside at the Rose Bowl setting, with its blend of natural beauty and festival-ready infrastructure, is the perfect stage for this celebration of music and nostalgia.
Beyond the headliners, the festival’s curated lineup, vibrant atmosphere, and attention to detail make it a standout in the crowded festival landscape. Whether you’re a diehard fan of the early 2000s indie scene or a newer listener discovering these bands for the first time, Just Like Heaven offers something special. It’s a chance to relive the songs that soundtracked your youth, make new memories, and lose yourself in a day of music that feels, well, just like heaven.
Mark your calendars for May 10, 2025, and get ready to dance, sing, and celebrate in Pasadena. For the latest updates on tickets, lineup additions, and more, visit the festival’s official website or follow them on social media. Don’t wait—this is one reunion you won’t want to miss.
- Kaytranada and Justice Embark on Co-Headlining North American Tour: A Celebration of Electronic Music - July 17, 2025
- 10 Best Ellie Goulding Songs of Her Setlist - June 29, 2025
- Dolly Parton Returns to the Strip for Residency: Secure Your Dolly Parton Tickets for an Unforgettable Las Vegas Experience 2025 - June 25, 2025
