The Smashing Pumpkins Return with *The Rats in a Cage Tour*: A 30th Anniversary Tribute to *Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness*
After a three-year hiatus following the departure of longtime guitarist Jeff Schroeder, the Smashing Pumpkins are reuniting for *The Rats in a Cage Tour*—a fall 2026 celebration of their 1995 magnum opus, Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness. The tour, marking the album’s 30th anniversary, will feature two distinct sets per show: one dedicated to the classic record and another showcasing “unruly hits and dark treasures” from the band’s catalog.
With new guitarist Kiki Wong now solidified in the lineup, this reunion represents both a nostalgic homecoming and a bold step forward. Tickets for the North American leg go on sale May 21, 2026, with dates spanning September through November across major cities. Here’s everything fans need to know.
Why This Tour Matters: A Reunion Built on Legacy
1. The 30th Anniversary of *Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness*
Mellon Collie remains one of the most influential albums in alternative rock history, blending raw emotion with intricate songwriting. The tour’s two-set structure—one for the album, one for deep cuts—ensures fans experience both the band’s peak creativity and their enduring catalog.
“This tour isn’t just about reliving the past—it’s about proving that the music still moves us.”
2. The Lineup: Billy Corgan and Kiki Wong
Following Jeff Schroeder’s departure in 2023, the Pumpkins took an unconventional approach: they held an open call for a new guitarist. Kiki Wong, a former member of Billy Corgan’s solo project, was selected for her technical skill and creative synergy with Corgan’s songwriting.
Wong’s inclusion signals a shift toward a more collaborative dynamic, while also honoring the band’s roots. “Kiki brings a fresh perspective but understands the weight of these songs,” Corgan noted in a recent interview.
3. Tour Structure: Two Sets, One Night
Each show will feature:
- Set 1: The full *Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness* album in chronological order, including fan-favorite tracks like “1979,” “Today,” and “Bullet with Butterfly Wings.”
- Set 2: A mix of deep cuts from Siamese Dream, Machina/The Machines of God, and later work, with surprises likely drawn from their 2024 album, Aghori Mhori Mei.
This format ensures both purists and casual fans leave satisfied.
Full *The Rats in a Cage Tour* Dates (2026)
Tickets for the North American leg go on sale May 21, 2026 at SmashingPumpkins.com and authorized retailers.
| Date | City, State/Province | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| September 30 | Columbus, OH | Schottenstein Center |
| October 2 | Boston, MA | TD Garden |
| October 3 | Baltimore, MD | CFG Bank Arena |
| October 4 | Brooklyn, NY | Barclays Center |
| October 6 | Pittsburgh, PA | PPG Paints Arena |
| October 7 | Hamilton, Ontario | TD Coliseum |
| October 9 | Montreal, Quebec | Bell Centre |
| October 11 | Madison, WI | Kohl Center |
| October 13 | Saint Paul, MN | Grand Casino Arena |
| October 14 | Chicago, IL | United Center |
| October 16 | Charlotte, NC | Spectrum Center |
| October 17 | Jacksonville, FL | VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena |
| October 18 | Tampa, FL | Benchmark International Arena |
| October 20 | Indianapolis, IN | Gainbridge Fieldhouse |
| October 22 | Nashville, TN | The Truth |
| October 24 | Oklahoma City, OK | Paycom Center |
| October 25 | Austin, TX | Moody Center |
| October 27 | Denver, CO | Ball Arena |
| October 29 | Salt Lake City, UT | Delta Center |
| October 30 | Las Vegas, NV | MGM Grand Garden Arena |
| November 1 | Portland, OR | Moda Center |
| November 3 | Calgary, Alberta | Scotiabank Saddledome |
| November 5 | Vancouver, BC | Rogers Arena |
| November 6 | Seattle, WA | Climate Pledge Arena |
| November 8 | San Jose, CA | SAP Center |
| November 11 | Phoenix, AZ | Mortgage Matchup Center |
| November 12 | Los Angeles, CA | The Kia Forum |
| November 14 | Huntington Beach, CA | Darker Waves |
Note: International dates (Europe/Asia) are expected to be announced later this year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Jeff Schroeder be involved in the tour?
No. The Smashing Pumpkins confirmed in 2023 that Schroeder’s departure was permanent, and the band has moved forward with Kiki Wong as the new guitarist.
Are there plans for a *Mellon Collie* live album or film?
While no official announcement has been made, the tour’s two-set structure suggests the band may release live recordings. Fans can expect updates via the official website or social media.
How does this tour compare to past reunions?
Unlike previous one-off shows (e.g., their 2019 reunion at the Hollywood Bowl), *The Rats in a Cage Tour* is a full-scale production with elaborate staging, pyrotechnics, and a deeper dive into the band’s discography. It’s positioned as both a tribute and a statement of artistic continuity.
Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets will be available starting May 21, 2026 at SmashingPumpkins.com, as well as authorized partners like Ticketmaster and Live Nation.
Key Takeaways
- The Smashing Pumpkins’ *The Rats in a Cage Tour* celebrates the 30th anniversary of *Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness* with two sets per show.
- New guitarist Kiki Wong replaces Jeff Schroeder, marking a creative evolution while honoring the band’s legacy.
- Tour dates span September–November 2026 across North America, with tickets on sale May 21.
- The lineup includes deep cuts from *Siamese Dream*, *Machina*, and *Aghori Mhori Mei*, not just *Mellon Collie*.
- No international dates have been confirmed, but updates will be shared via official channels.
A Homecoming for the Ages
For a generation raised on *Mellon Collie*, *The Rats in a Cage Tour* is more than nostalgia—it’s a chance to witness the Smashing Pumpkins redefine their own legacy. With Kiki Wong at the helm and a setlist that balances reverence with reinvention, this reunion tour promises to be one of the most anticipated events in alternative rock this year.
Set your reminders for May 21, and get ready to experience 30 years of history—live and in the flesh.
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