Nevertheless, what makes the Fireside Bowl a true original is that it is the only such venue in Chicago with the primary goal of presenting this sort of music to fans of all ages. For many area teenagers, the Fireside is a bustling alternative to a night at the local mall. Sadly, officials at the Chicago Park District have confirmed recent rumors that the Fireside will close. Although there is no set date, the building will eventually be torn down to expand a local park. Skiba compared the Fireside to Gilman Street, the Berkely punk shrine that famously nurtured Green Day and Rancid.
Bands play next to the ball returns on lanes one and two.
There is hope on the horizon. One new venue capable of carrying the Fireside torch is the old Louis Bar, also known as the Ashtray, on Campbell St. near Wicker Park. It has only been putting on shows for a few months now, but the independent spirit is there. The old bar serves as a place for shows, but also as a modern day punk rock commune, where several band members live. You can usually catch bands like The Symptoms or The Explanation gracing the stage.