Candlebox will headline the 12th annual Downers Grove Oktoberfest on Friday, September 18, bringing a platinum-selling '90s rock act to a neighborhood festival that benefits local schools. The show marks the second date on the band's 32-date "Can't Quit You" national tour, one night after the opener in St. Louis.
The Oktoberfest runs Friday, September 18 through Saturday, September 19 in Historic Downtown Downers Grove. The festival is organized by the Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58, a nonprofit that donates 100% of proceeds directly to District 58 schools, according to the foundation's event listing.
From farewell to 'Can't Quit You'
Candlebox announced a farewell tour in 2023 alongside its album "The Long Goodbye." The retirement didn't stick. Frontman Kevin Martin confirmed in a January 2026 statement that the band was working on a ninth studio album and planned to tour into 2027.
Founding guitarist Peter Klett rejoined the group in early 2025 after a roughly 10-year absence, a move Martin credited with revitalizing the band and spurring the new tour, according to JamBase.
"The phrase 'Can't Quit You' really speaks volumes to how important our fans are to us and the music we create," Martin said in a statement announcing the tour. "Candlebox has always relied on the energy our fans bring and the atmosphere that live music brings."
What to know
The Seattle band's 1993 self-titled debut sold more than 4 million copies, and its hit single "Far Behind" reached No. 18 on the Billboard Hot 100. More than 30 years later, the "Can't Quit You" tour kicks off Thursday, September 17 at The Pageant in St. Louis and wraps Friday, October 30 at Starland Ballroom in Sayreville, New Jersey.
Support acts on varying dates include The Mountain Goats, Sponge, Sweet Water, American Blonde, and The Verve Pipe. No specific opener has been announced for the Downers Grove date.
Tickets went on general sale Friday, July 17 at 10 a.m. Central. Specific ticket prices and performance times for the Oktoberfest show have not been published. Residents can check dgoktoberfest.org for updates.
Upcoming community events
- Downtown Downers Grove Farmers Market — every Saturday through October 17, 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- Fine Arts Festival — Saturday, September 12 through Sunday, September 13, downtown Downers Grove
- Oktoberfest — Friday, September 18 through Saturday, September 19, Historic Downtown Downers Grove
