Labor Day in Chicago only means one thing: North Coast Music Festival. And this year was extra special because Coasties came together to celebrate the festival’s 15th anniversary. Fifteen years of exceptional music, immersive art, and endless PLUR vibes. Every year North Coast exceeds expectations, but this year hands down was one of the best festival weekends I’ve ever had.
The Lineup That Got Everybody Talking
North Coast knew exactly how to celebrate a milestone with a lineup that went crazy. This year delivered on all the anniversary hype with a stacked roster. Headliners included Deadmau5 (performing a rare drum & bass set), Zedd, Excision, REZZ, Chris Lake, Sofi Tukker, Zeds Dead, Seven Lions, SVDDEN DEATH’s VOYD, Of The Trees, Kaskade, Louis The Child, Liquid Stranger, Daily Bread, Zingara, and so many other heavy-hitting EDM artists.
The Festival Playground
But the music was only half of it. This year brought back fan-favorite experiences like the Chill Dome, Incendia Fire Pit, NCMF Yacht Club, Club Coast, Rainbow Lounge, and of course, the iconic ferris wheel. And Frick Frack Blackjack made its appearance, giving everyone a chance to play and connect in the most unexpected ways.
Why North Coast? The Coastie Energy!
What makes North Coast feel like home is not just the production, the stages, or even the music. It is the people. The Coasties were out in full force for the 15th anniversary, and PLUR was alive and thriving. There was an abundance of kandi trading, strangers exchanging hugs, and outfits that absolutely did not disappoint.
The EDM community is like no other, and North Coast captures everything we love about it. Fifteen years in and that spirit is stronger than ever.
Not a Goodbye, Just a See You Later
North Coast Music Festival’s 15th anniversary was nothing short of perfect. Everyone I spoke to said the weekend flew by way too fast and many claimed it was their favorite Coast yet. I met so many kind and wonderful people, from staff to fellow attendees. North Coast felt like one big family reunion.
From the insane lineup to the art-filled grounds to the energy of the crowd, this weekend felt like a milestone not just for the festival itself but for all of us who have been part of the journey along the way.
There were many memorable moments, but let us not forget the drone show during Zeds Dead’s closing set. It was easily one of the coolest experiences!
If this was your first North Coast, you understand now. And if you have been coming for years, you have witnessed the beautiful growth of this community. North Coast, you truly outdid yourself and gave us some of the best memories of our lives.
Here’s to 15 years of Coastie magic and to 15 more. See you next year!