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OC venue Chain Reaction, cradle of alternative and indie bands, is shutting down
(L-R) Pete Wentz, Patrick Stump, Joseph Trohman, and Andrew Hurley of Fall Out Boy pose for a photo backstage during MTV's Total Request Live at the MTV Times Square Studios October 11, 2005 in New York City.
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OC music venue, a cradle of local indie rock scene, is closing down
Sad news for pretty much anyone who went out to see bands big and small over the past few decades. A storied O.C. venue is closing down after nearly 3 decades
Topline:
Sad news for pretty much anyone who went out to see bands big and small over the past few decades. Chain Reaction, a storied Orange County indie venue, is closing down after some 30 years.
Why it matters: Over the years the Anaheim indie venue has hosted budding local bands and big acts alike, including Fall Out Boy and Turnstile.
Last shows: Chain Reaction announced on their Instagram that their final shows will be on Dec. 18 and Dec. 19. The Rancho Santa Margarita band Movements will headline.
No word on why the venue is shutting down.
"This call wasn't made quickly. We wrestled with it and have ultimately made the decision to close our doors," said Chain Reaction management on Instagram.
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"We want to thank you for the friendships and memories made in our special club. Thank you for supporting us through the years and when we needed it most," the post continued.
Corrected December 14, 2025 at 6:09 AM PST
A previous story erroneously stated that No Doubt played at Chain Reaction. We regret the error.
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