The iconic music venue Chain Reaction in Anaheim will offer fans a final opportunity to commemorate its legacy with special farewell events on January 16 and January 17, 2026. From 18:00 to 22:00, attendees can enjoy photo opportunities and share their favorite memories from nearly three decades of music history. This event marks a poignant moment for many who have cherished the venue as a cornerstone of the Southern California music scene.
In addition to the nostalgic atmosphere, two well-known companies, Violent Gentleman and Das Bootleg, will be present to sell commemorative merchandise. Violent Gentleman, a Costa Mesa-based company known for its hockey-inspired apparel, has a long-standing relationship with Chain Reaction. During the venue’s financial struggles in 2020, Violent Gentleman collaborated with Blackcraft Cult, another local business, to create specialty T-shirts. The sale of these shirts helped generate funds to keep the venue operational amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Support for Chain Reaction has come from various sources, including a notable collaboration with Dixon Flannel Co. from Tempe, Arizona. This partnership recently unveiled a new plaid flannel design, which has been well-received by fans. Local bands, such as Thrice, have also stepped up to support the venue. In 2020, Thrice sold a Chain Reaction-themed shirt featuring a performance photo and the slogan “Chain Forever,” contributing to the venue’s survival efforts.
Despite these efforts, Chain Reaction announced its permanent closure on December 9, 2025. The decision was not made lightly, with the venue expressing its gratitude to the community in an emotional Instagram post. “We want to thank every band, fan, and attendee of our shows,” the statement read. “We want to thank the scene that supported us for almost three decades. Thank you for the friendships and memories made in our special club. CHAIN REACTION FOREVER.”
Leading up to its closure, Chain Reaction hosted a series of farewell shows that attracted fans from near and far. On December 19, 2025, the venue held its final performance featuring the Rancho Santa Margarita-based band Movements, along with Militarie Gun and Cherdomingo. Fans lined up overnight for tickets, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with merchandise sales and storytelling as they mourned the impending loss of their beloved venue.
As Chain Reaction prepares to close its doors, the community reflects on the lasting impact the venue has had on countless musicians and fans. The upcoming farewell events provide an opportunity for people to come together one last time to celebrate the memories, music, and friendships forged within its walls.
