In 1991, it was an exciting new way for fans to experience the best in alternative rock. Now, two decades later, Lollapalooza celebrates its 21st birthday and the one of America’s best three days of music.

Last year’s Lollapalooza was filled with unforgettable performances from My Morning Jacket, Arctic Monkeys, and a very memorable performance from Foo Fighters, soaking wet.

2012′s 3-day party in Grant Park will feature Red Hot Chili Peppers, the Black Keys, Black Sabbath, Jack White, The Shins, Florence + The Machine, Passion Pit, Franz Ferdinand, M83, The Afghan Whigs, The Head & The Heart, Justice, Sigure Ros, Dr. Dog, Dawas, Tuneyards, Temper Trap, Sharon Van Etten, Delta Spirit, Alabama Shakes, The Walkmen, The Big Pink – Of Monster An Men, White Rabbits, Givers, Twin Shadow, Gary Clark Jr., Dum Dum Girls, Trampled by Turtles, Oberhofer, Bloc Party & more. View additional acts at Lollapalooza.com.

Expect a hot and humid Chicago weekend August 3rd-5th. Tickets are on sale now. Three day passes are now only sale at $230. Jumping up to a $1050 VIP pass will get you unlimited access to viewing platforms, golf cart shuttles, beer, wine and libations all day, mini spa treatments, air conditioned bathrooms, and shaded and relaxed lounge seating. That’s right, we said air conditioned bathrooms — a truly VIP weekend deal.

Ah, the maestro of Lollapalooza himself. Spiritual godfather and festival founder Perry Farrell of Jane’s Addiction made his annual appearance at Chicago’s WXRT backstage broadcast to talk with Marty Lennartz.

Originally creating Lollapalooza in 1991 as a farewell tour for Jane’s Addiction, the event has since morphed into a festival juggernaut, a destination for concert lovers of all ages and all tastes. But like many alt rockers of the 80s and 90s, Farrell got his start on Los Angeles’ grimy Sunset Strip, jamming with various acts before forming Jane’s Addiction with Dave Navarro and company. For six years, the group dominated the scene with intense stage shows, led by Farrell’s drug-fueled screeches and manic dancing.

-Zack Nechvatal