Punk Rock Bowling is not just an amusing name for the annual music festival. The event, in fact, started off as a private bowling get-together for punk rock musicians and industry figures, gradually expanding from a handful of supplemental musical performances into a full-blown festival (which officially began in 2010). This year’s event features 40-plus bands in the main festival, plus multiple secondary shows at clubs throughout downtown. There’s a comedy show, pool parties, a poker tournament and bowling, with more than 500 bowlers participating.
The event’s “punk rock” designation encompasses multiple variations on the genre, and this year’s headliners include veteran Bay Area punk rockers Rancid, SoCal pop-punk legends Descendents and English ska pioneers The Specials. The festival honors punk history with bands like Refused, The Damned, Fear, Dead Boys and more, some of whom have been performing for more than 40 years. PRB also showcases newer acts who represent the next generation of punk rockers, and fans can discover new bands or rediscover old favorites over the course of the weekend. Or just go bowling.
Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, times vary May 25-27, starting at $62.50 single day, $155 three-day pass plus tax and fee. 702.388.2111
