KU brings back Day on the Hill with Turnstile headlining 2026 event

KU is bringing back Day on the Hill on Oct. 6, 2026, ending a 19-year hiatus with Turnstile headlining the concert at the Hill at KU. Slayyyter and Die Spitz are also on the bill, and tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday, June 26, with prices listed from $61 to $84 before fees. A limited number of student-discount tickets will cost $41 plus fees for 2025-26 student combo pass holders.

The revival comes through KU and Mammoth Live, a Midwest-based production company that produces concerts and other live events. Mammoth Live is marking its 20th anniversary with the return of the show. Turnstile’s tour also carries a charitable component through PLUS1, which will send $1 from each ticket to local organizations in each city. The Lawrence partner has not yet been announced, and PLUS1 is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works with artists, events and brands on social and environmental justice initiatives.

Day on the Hill began as a student programming idea for KU Student Union Activities, using leftover programming funds. Over the years it brought in acts such as They Might Be Giants and The Urge along with local artists. Pearl Jam played Day on the Hill on May 2, 1992, in Lawrence. Archived recordings and setlists document that show at Day on the Hill.

KU’s traditions include walking up the Hill for commencement and honors ceremonies, and the Campanile, built in 1950 and standing 120 feet tall, honors 277 KU alumni, students, faculty and staff who died in World War II. Heather Blanck, KU’s vice chancellor for strategic growth initiatives and real estate, said the event is meant to highlight campus life and draw students, alumni and the wider Kansas City region to the Hill.