Calling all Coasties! It’s that time of year again and this year is a special one. 2019 marks a decade of North Coast Music Festival bringing the end of summer vibes, and with this milestone, comes a new venue. Typically held in the west loop’s Union Park, this year NCMF will take place at the legendary Northerly Island at Huntington Bank Pavilion over Labor Day weekend, August 30-31. Personally always being one of my favorite Chicago festivals, the lineup this year is bringing the heat. Headliners include Bassnectar, Major Lazer, Jai Wolf, Tchami, Big Wild, Gorgon City, Snakehips, Yung Bae, Melvv, SG Lewis, Flux Pavilion, and Trampa.
I love North Coast for the intimacy it brings as a fest. It is nowhere near as big as giants like Lollapalooza or Spring Awakening, but the diversity of tunes and variety of fashion and immersive activities makes the weekend that much more fun when there isn’t a sea of people buzzing around you. Who and what am I most looking forward to? I’m always in it for the jams and fashion and this year find me at the stages of Bassnectar – who has been a NCMF guest three times prior and combines sound and force for the ultimate visual and audio experience. Jai Wolf and Tchami are other top artists on my list to see (again) and they, along with the fest as a whole, never disappoints. And of course, I’ll be on the lookout for those ‘gram worthy outfits so make sure to step up your game so I can snap a pic.
After the Fest
Get excited for this fun and fest, take in the music and make sure to hit up some after parties! Venues across the city will be hosting official after parties at the likes of Concord – which is my favorite venue, Aragon, The Mid, Prysm and so many more. If you’re looking for something more low key, North Coast is being held at Northerly Island, just blocks away from the up and coming south loop where you can find trendy bars and restaurants or take a stroll along the lakeshore path to take in the stunning views of the city skyline.
Chicago never comes up short when throwing a party or festival and North Coast certainly is no different. The party starts in just a few short weeks, so get your countdowns started, find your best fest ‘fit and suit up for Summer’s Last Stand. Cheers to a decade and see you all there!
FestPop Sr. Staff Writer, Ashley Siech
