From headliners to stages, Electric Zoo is debuting a roster of first-time experiences for new and veteran ravers.
This year’s festival season has been filled with historic moments for electronic music. From one-night-only back-to-back sets to the release of highly anticipated singles and albums, the scene continues demonstrating growth and vitality for mainstream success. And although we’re inching toward the festival season finale, Electric Zoo is set to author more history-making moments for the dance community.
From mainstage favorites like The Chainsmokers to underground sounds by HI-LO and even new stages, the New York festival has covered all its bases, giving fans plenty of first-time festival experiences and set conflicts to choose from. Read on as we break down some of the biggest items that will happen when Electric Zoo makes its grand return to Randall’s Island on September 1-3.
The debut of a mysterious, immersive fifth stage.
It’s hard not to argue that MegaMirage is one of the most highly anticipated stages of the year. This new structure, modeled after The Brooklyn Mirage’s massive, video-walled stage, promises to deliver an immersive experience with its own designated entrance and exit (attendees do not need to purchase a second ticket). Located in a secluded, new area of the festival grounds, this stage will feature three monumental takeovers, starting with the festival debut of Chris Lake and Fisher’s Under Construction venture. This tech house event will spotlight artists handpicked by the two producers, including Cloonee, Mau P, HoneyLuv, and many others.
Saturday marks a first in live music history: a festival within a festival. Cityfox and Gray Area are partnering to present MegaFox, a day-long haven for house and techno lovers at the MegaMirage and Morphosis stages. Camelphat, Stephan Bodzin, Massano, and Skream are some names that will grace these stages. Make sure to head to the festival early on September 2, as this exciting concept will attract a huge crowd.
John Summit and Dom Dolla tie the knot.
John Summit and Dom Dolla, two of the biggest names in the dance world, have dominated the scene in the past year. Hot hits like “Where You Are” and “Eat Your Man” have propelled them to the top of everyone’s must-see lists. But the producers have generated more buzz by delivering back-to-back energetic performances at festivals like Holy Ship! and Movement. However, they did not play together under an official name during those sets.
That changed last month when the producers announced their official partnership as Everything Always, making Electric Zoo the host of their event series world debut. Little is known about this new project, but don’t be surprised if the DJs tease new material from their collaboration. The anticipation is fueling high expectations in the scene, making it one of the perfect sets to close out the MegaMirage structure.
Kaskade and deadmau5 are set to make their Kx5 debut.
Each a headliner in his own right, Kaskade and deadmau5 are two of the producers responsible for ushering in the EDM boom in the early 2010s. While they have collaborated on a slew of singles over the years, they properly joined forces last year as Kx5 and delivered the infectious number “Escape.”
March marked the release of their self-titled album that shattered expectations for both avid and casual fans, delivering 10 tracks from mainstage-ready hits to melodic, dark orchestrations. Now, the superstar duo is finally making its New York debut. Aside from the pair’s monumental December performance at the LA Memorial Coliseum, Kx5 has only played four other times. After Electric Zoo, it’s unclear where they’ll play next, so tell your crew that this is a must-see set.
A celebration of life at Dreamland.
At a time when attacks on queer rights have been rising across the US, Electric Zoo is making a statement by unveiling Dreamland, its inaugural LGBTQ+ stage. Curated by famed event producer Jake Resnicow, this takeover at the Morphosis Stage will be a place where people can “express themselves freely, connect authentically, and celebrate the beautiful spectrum of identities within [the] community.”
Acts at Dreamland will include queer artists and allies, such as The Blessed Madonna, Eli Escobar, and J. Worra, as well as a special sunset performance from Kaskade. Also gracing the stage is the eclectic Bob’s Dance Shop, which takes flash mobs to a fun, queer level. Friday’s takeover is sure to create memories that will last a lifetime for all festival goers.
One more stage for good measure.
Just a few weeks before the festival is about to kick off, Electric Zoo surprised festivalgoers with a sixth stage — making it the most stages they’ve offered in event history (last year offered four stages). Described as a “lush waterfront grove,” The Secret Garden will host melodic and deep house talent as well as exclusive food options. If you’re looking to cool off and relax from the hyper-sensory acts, then this is the perfect spot for that.
Electric Zoo’s massive footprint.
With all these exciting stages and performances, Electric Zoo is expanding its footprint for the first time in its 14-year history. According to their social media statements, they are nearly doubling their size! The new layout is expected to host the MegaMirage stage along with other surprises. Since real estate is a luxury in New York, the extra space is a huge plus, giving everyone additional space to dance, along with areas to cool off in between the acts. Make sure to download the Electric Zoo app ahead of attending to view a detailed layout of the new space.
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