As the summer begins to cool down, Chicago’s music scene heats up with one of its most anticipated events: North Coast Music Festival. Known for one hell of a lineup and its incredible organization of the festival grounds, this festival has shown us all why they keep coming back bigger and better every year. Whether you're a die-hard EDM fan or simply looking for a memorable weekend, North Coast offers something for everyone.
A Midwest Festival Staple
Since its inception in 2010, North Coast Music Festival has evolved from a modest event to one of the largest EDM festivals in the Midwest. Held annually over Labor Day weekend, the festival initially took place at Union Park, but has since moved to the expansive grounds of SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, just outside the city limits of Chicago. This move has allowed for larger crowds, more stages, and an overall enhanced festival experience.
One of the festival’s standout features is its commitment to musical diversity. North Coast boasts an impressive lineup that spans EDM, hip-hop, jam bands, and everything in between. Past headliners have included top-tier artists like Odesza, Zeds Dead, Alison Wonderland, and Ganja White Night, as well as hip-hop icons such as Gucci Mane and Common. This eclectic mix ensures that attendees can enjoy a wide range of musical styles, often discovering new favorites along the way.
The Immersive Installations
Music is just one part of the North Coast experience. The festival's organizers collaborate with local and international artists to ensure that each year brings something fresh and exciting.
In addition to the visual art, North Coast also features various experiential zones designed to engage and entertain festival-goers. First, there is the Incendia Fire Pit, a fire-breathing dome that is also a small stage. Last year one of the best sets at the fire pit was Daily Bread! Second, the Rainbow Lounge, a re-imagined scaffolding that is also part art installation and part hammock lounge, designed to take you off your feet and give you a place to relax. Next, there is the North Coast Yacht Club: all aboard the S.S. Bam for perks, good times, photo ops, drinks, and a yacht’s elevated eye view of the fest. And of course we would be remised to not mention the Chill Dome, a massive, well-ventilated, air-conditioned dome in an area for resting, cooling down, and getting out of the heat! These only name a few of North Coast’s massive installations, but you will have to come check it all out for yourself!
A World-Class Crowd in a World-Class City
The festival attracts a diverse crowd of music lovers from all walks of life. This inclusive
atmosphere fosters connections and friendships, making the festival not just an event, but a community gathering. Whether you're attending with a group of friends or venturing solo, you're bound to meet like-minded individuals who share your love for music and the scene.
What truly sets North Coast apart besides the incredible lineup, is the location. Hosted just outside the city, while attendees are not dancing away at North Coast, they can also experience all that Chicago has to offer. In this world-class city, there are endless amounts of good eats and fun activities to do. And getting around has never been easier because of Chicago’s metro system and premier shuttles provided by North Coast!
Tips for First-Time Attendees
If you're planning to attend North Coast Music Festival for the first time, here are a few tips to ensure you have an unforgettable experience:
Plan Ahead: With multiple stages and a packed schedule, it’s a good idea to plan which sets you want to see in advance. This way, you won’t miss your favorite artists.
Stay Hydrated: Festivals can be physically demanding, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. North Coast provides water refill stations, so bring a reusable bottle.
Comfortable Footwear: You’ll be doing a lot of walking and dancing, so wear comfortable shoes to keep your feet happy. However, renting a locker is always a great option to store snacks, possibly a onesie, and a spare pair of comfy shoes (pst pst I’m talking to the girlies here!)
Explore the Art: Take some time to wander through the art installations and experiential zones. These are integral parts of the festival and add to the overall experience.
Respect the Community: North Coast is known for its friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Be respectful to fellow festival-goers, staff, and artists to help maintain this positive vibe. Remember P.L.U.R.R. (peace, love, unity, respect, and responsibility)!
The Get Down
North Coast Music Festival is a must-attend event for anyone looking to experience the best of Chicago’s vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re local or traveling from afar, North Coast promises an unforgettable weekend. So, mark your calendars and get ready for the get down in Chi Town! We can’t wait to see you!
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