Nestled in the heart of Washington State, the Gorge Amphitheatre has long been a sought-after destination for ravers looking to escape the ordinary. About a two-and-a-half hour drive east of Seattle, the renowned over 27,000-person venue is a gateway where music and nature blend seamlessly, perfect for EDM events. Below, weāve organized four diverse shows going down at the Gorge this summer. Mark your calendars, lace up your platforms, and prepare for collective euphoria.
1. Illenium
May 27th & 28th | Tickets start at $100
Illenium makes a triumphant return to the Gorge, marking the start of his highly anticipated 37-stop tour for his fifth album, ILLENIUM, and the kick-off of festival season in the Pacific Northwest.
Night one will feature Illenium’s live tour set for the first time and showcase his new side as he combines his signature melodic dubstep with a live band’s raw energy. Joining him is the legendary TiĆ«sto, Eptic, William Black, Moore Kismet, PawS, and DNMO, who told us he’s “buzzing to be back at the Gorge with such an A-list lineup.”
Night two features aĀ throwback set, providing nostalgia as Illenium visits his older tracks. Dabin will also present his sanctuary live show, alongside the dynamic Acraze, Nurko, Imanu, Tsu Nami, and Friendzone. Each performance will likely deliver a different journey, from heart-pounding drops to uplifting melodies. Prepare to ascend.
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2. Beyond Wonderland PNW
June 17th and 18th | Tickets start at $149
Get ready to embrace the fairytale and let fantasy become reality as Beyond Wonderland PNW unfolds at the Gorge.
The whimsical world of Beyond Wonderland PNW returns to the Gorge this summer as major promoter Insomniac brings the festival back for the third year. The three-night, two-day fest is one of the most extensive offerings in the area, with over-the-top decorations, vibrant performers, and activities both within the campground and in the venue. The visuals and installations might have you feeling like you’ve stepped into Alice in Wonderland’s psychedelic storybook.
Over two days, 37 artists will perform, including some big names like Subtronics, Marshmello, James Hype, and Luci. “I’ve played The Gorge a couple times and there’s no feeling like it,” Luci told The Ticket while we chatted about the venue. “There’s this euphoric feeling when you’re playing and I’m excited to be back.” The music begins on June 16th with a pre-party to kick off the festivities, which start on the 17th.
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Tips from fest vets š
New to camping at the Gorge? Our friends at the Seattle TimesĀ have a few pointers for you.
3. Group Therapy Weekender
July 21st – 23rd | Tickets start at $185
Experience the ultimate trance as the electronic act Above & Beyond present Group Therapy Weekender at the Gorge. This festival combines the group’s signature uplifting sound with the backdrop of one of the country’s greatest amphitheaters. I recommend it for trance enthusiasts and people interested in the more transcendent side of EDM.
Above & Beyond bring a lineup that showcases artists from their Anjunabeats and Anjunadeep labelsālike Cri, who will make his Gorge debut on Sunday, July 23rd. “The Gorge is a dream come true,” he told us when talking about the festival. “It will be the most beautiful place I’ve played so far. On top of that, I have the chance to do it with all my friends at Anjunadeep.”
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4. Bass Canyon
August 17th – 20th | Tickets start at $289
Close out the fest season with a bang atĀ Bass Canyon, a premiere destination forĀ headbangers. Curated by Canadian producer and DJĀ Excision, Bass Canyon is a haven for headbangers looking to push the boundaries of sound. In this world,Ā deep, heavy bassĀ is the only constant. I recommend this one for fans of dubstep, drum and bass, trap, riddim, and all things bass.Ā
Grabbitz, one of the artists headlining Bass Canyon, expressed his anticipation when we talked to him about returning to perform at the Gorge: “TheĀ atmosphere alone puts me in a more creative spaceĀ and makes me more excited to perform.” As far as his set, he said to expect a lot of energy, bassāand singing along.
Muerte, an artist currentlyĀ killing the dubstep game, was thrilled to be part of the Bass Canyon lineup when we spoke to him. “I’ve heard nothing but amazing things about the festival from other artists and friends in the industry, plus it’s no secret that everyone considers the Gorge to be one of the most stunning venues on the planet,” he told us.Ā
Kissing the festival season goodbye is never easy, but these artists and the Gorge’s breathtaking views will help close it out right.Ā
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