Blink-182, the iconic pop-punk band that defined a generation, is set to make waves once again with their newly announced “Missionary Impossible” tour. Scheduled for the fall of 2025, this U.S. tour serves not only as a celebration of their music but also as a significant reunion for band members Mark Hoppus, Tom DeLonge, and Travis Barker. With Alkaline Trio joining as special guests, this tour is anticipated to resonate deeply with fans who have followed the band’s storied journey through ups, downs, and various lineup changes.
Every tour announcement has the potential to stir excitement, but for Blink-182, this one is particularly poignant given the band's history and DeLonge's return. Over the years, Blink-182 has evolved, but their core appeal remains as potent as it was during their formation in 1992.
As anticipation for the tour builds, we will explore what this means for the band, the significance of their extended absence from the stage, and the pop-punk scene's revival in recent years, which provides fertile ground for their return.
In 2015, Tom DeLonge took a hiatus from Blink-182, leaving the band temporarily to pursue other creative interests. In his absence, guitarist Matt Skiba of Alkaline Trio filled the gap, featuring prominently in two albums, California (2016) and Nine (2019). While Skiba’s contributions helped maintain their momentum, the dynamic changed with DeLonge's return, rekindling the band's original chemistry.
DeLonge’s letter to Skiba after his rejoining encapsulated a spirit of camaraderie: “I wanted to take a minute and say thank you for all that you have done to keep the band thriving in my absence.” This public display of respect reflects the often tumultuous but ultimately collaborative spirit that defines Blink-182.
The "Missionary Impossible" tour promises to bring Blink-182's signature anthems to life once more. The schedule includes a variety of venues across the United States, commencing at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida, and concluding at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, California. Here is a glimpse of the tour dates:
This extensive routing speaks to the band's desire to connect with a wide range of fans across the country, reaffirming their place as a band that thrives on live performance.
The pop-punk genre has witnessed a revival in recent years, with bands like Blink-182, Paramore, and others experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Streaming platforms and social media have allowed a new generation to discover the band’s classic hits, creating a bridge between old and new fans.
The cultural backdrop for this resurgence includes an increased desire for nostalgic experiences among millennials and Gen Zers, who find solace in the music that once defined their youth. Moreover, the global pandemic has fueled this trend, pushing people to seek emotional connection through music and live events.
Joining Blink-182 on this tour, Alkaline Trio brings their own legacy of melodic punk-rock, having carved their niche since the late 1990s. The partnership between these bands isn’t merely a logistical choice; it’s borne out of mutual respect and the shared experience of navigating the challenges of the music industry.
Alkaline Trio’s Matt Skiba briefly filled in during DeLonge’s absence, and the blending of their intense yet melodic sound with Blink-182's more upbeat punk-pop creates a tour that promises electrifying energy.
As news of the tour spread, fans took to social media to express their excitement. With general ticket sales beginning on April 11, 2025, anticipation is reaching a fever pitch.
Presale tickets are available for Citi card members starting April 8, giving dedicated fans a chance to secure their spots before the general public. This structured ticketing approach underscores the band's recognition of their committed fan base, extending a privilege to loyal followers first.
With over 30 years in the industry, Blink-182’s legacy as pioneers of pop-punk is undeniable. From their early days of Dude Ranch to the groundbreaking Enema of the State, the band redefined what it meant to be a rock group in the late 90s. Their sound has influenced countless bands, making their current reunion tour not just a promotional event but a historical moment in music history.
Mark Hoppus, who has wrestled with serious health issues in recent years, shared how his experiences have altered his perspective on friendship and music. His acknowledgment of DeLonge's role in his recovery sparked a renewed sense of camaraderie that fans can expect in their upcoming performances.
The announcement of the "Missionary Impossible" tour not only signifies a pivotal moment for Blink-182 but also shines a light on the broader context of the music industry’s revival. With veteran bands returning to the stage, the scene is gradually shifting once again towards live performances, urging younger artists to step up and contribute to the evolving narrative.
The revival of pop-punk hinges not just on nostalgia but on the willingness of established acts like Blink-182 and Alkaline Trio to adapt while honoring their roots. Their approach might inspire a new wave of musicians seeking to inject fresh energy into the genre.
Blink-182's "Missionary Impossible" tour is poised to be more than just a set of concerts; it’s a celebration of the connections that music forges among fans and artists alike. With the return of Tom DeLonge and the partnership with Alkaline Trio, it marks a significant chapter in both bands' storied careers, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the chance to relive cherished memories and make new ones.
Their reunion also raises hopes for a revitalization of the music industry as artists find innovative ways to reach audiences hungry for live experiences and authentic connections.
The tour starts on August 28, 2025, in Hollywood, Florida.
Alkaline Trio will be the special guests on all non-festival dates of the tour.
Tickets will go on sale to the general public on April 11, 2025. Citi card members can access presale tickets starting April 8.
Yes, this marks Tom DeLonge's first tour back with Blink-182 since his departure in 2015.
The tour will span 16 shows across major U.S. cities including Tampa, Charleston, Virginia Beach, and Palm Desert.
Their last album, One More Time..., was released in 2023, marking their first album in over a decade with the original trio of Hoppus, DeLonge, and Barker.