Chicago's 'Rat Hole' Makes Rare Public Appearance at Smashing Pumpkins Concert

Key points

• The Chicago 'Rat Hole' was displayed at the United Center from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on October 14, 2026, ahead of a Smashing Pumpkins show.
• The concrete slab, removed from Roscoe Street in April 2024 and preserved at City Hall since January 2025, was transported by the City of Chicago for the event.
• The display was arranged by the United Center, citing the thematic link between the band's 'Rats in a Cage' tour and the city's viral landmark.
• The concert marked the 30th anniversary of the album 'Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness,' featuring a 150-minute performance with 16 tracks from the album and additional career-spanning songs.
• The slab was returned to City Hall on October 15, 2026, with city officials noting that such loans are rare but possible for special occasions.

Background

The 'Rat Hole' gained national attention in 2024 after local comedian Winslow Dumaine posted about the concrete imprint online, sparking a social media frenzy. Researchers later concluded the imprint was likely caused by a squirrel. The slab was removed from the sidewalk near 1918 W. Roscoe St. in April 2024 and has been encased and preserved at City Hall since January 2025 under the Streets and Sanitation Department. This is the first known instance of the slab being loaned for public display outside of City Hall.

How outlets are covering it

Block Club Chicago emphasized the novelty of the city lending out the slab, quoting a spokesperson who called the timing 'almost too perfect' due to the tour name. Live For Live Music and Glide Magazine focused on the concert itself, noting that the band went beyond a simple nostalgia act by including deep cuts and recent tracks from 'Aghori Mhori Mei.' Pioneer Press, reviewing a separate St. Paul show on October 13, highlighted the band's cohesion and the inclusion of 16 'Mellon Collie' tracks, noting that the Chicago show was a hometown event with a packed arena. All sources agree the concert was a significant celebration of the album's 30th anniversary, but only Block Club Chicago detailed the logistics of the Rat Hole display.

Why it matters

The event highlights the intersection of local cultural landmarks and major music events, showcasing how cities can leverage unique assets for promotional opportunities. It also underscores the enduring relevance of the Smashing Pumpkins, as the band continues to tour and perform deep cuts alongside hits, demonstrating their ability to engage audiences beyond nostalgia. The temporary loan of the Rat Hole also illustrates the flexibility of city departments in preserving and showcasing local history.

What to watch

The Smashing Pumpkins will continue their 'Rats in a Cage' tour, with upcoming dates in Charlotte, Jacksonville, Tampa, and other cities through November 2026. The 'Rat Hole' has been returned to City Hall and is expected to remain there, though city officials indicated that special occasions may warrant future loans. The band's recent album 'Aghori Mhori Mei' and the success of the 'Mellon Collie' anniversary tour suggest continued activity in the coming year.