Paxahau is celebrating Movement Detroit’s 20th anniversary in 2026. Here are the first 17 headliners announced ahead of the milestone edition.
Can you believe it’s almost been 20 years since Paxahau took the reins of the festival originally called Detroit Electronic Music Festival? That’s right, May 23-25, 2026 will mark two decades of Movement Detroit, and organizers have just shared the first lineup details for the gathering at Hart Plaza.
Of the first 17 headliners, none commands as big a following as Carl Cox. The UK DJ and producer’s career dates back to the ’70s, and he rose through the ranks of the techno scene in the ’90s. He’s performed on stages across the globe and was arguably the most famous resident of the now-defunct Space Ibiza.
“Coming back to Detroit feels like firing up the reactor that’s powered me since day one,” said Carl Cox. “Every year I’ve been away has stacked up into nuclear energy — and now my fingers are on the detonator. Detroit, you know how I do… I’m about to blast this city into a whole new reality. Get down the front and stand your ground — when this thing blows, I want you right there with me!”
As usual, the Movement Detroit 2026 lineup features its fair share of homegrown flavor. Kevin Saunderson, Carl Craig, and Richie Hawtin are prominent Motor City acts slated to perform at next year’s event.
But between artists like Dax J, 999999999, KI/KI, and DJ Harvey, Europe looks to be represented as well as ever on the bill. Meanwhile, ANNA and Mochakk collectively ensure that Brazilian acts talent will be present at Movement Detroit 2026.
And while it remains a bastion of techno in the genre’s very birthplace, Movement famously platforms other kinds of music. Between the modern jungle of Nia Archives, the distinct house flavor of Barry Can’t Swim, and the ambient tones of Voices From The Lake, festival-goers will have plenty of variety while bouncing between stages at Hart Plaza.
Three-day tickets are currently on sale starting at $357 including fees. Purchase yours and find additional information on the Movement Detroit website.
Movement Detroit 2026 Lineup Teaser:
