10 Rising Stars to Keep an Eye On at North Coast Music Festival 2026

North Coast Music Festival 2026: A Celebration of Dance Music in the Heart of Chicago

Every Labor Day weekend, the vibrant city of Chicago transforms into a pulsating hub for electronic dance music (EDM), with over 100,000 ravers convening in celebration of the beats that originated from this cultural melting pot. Among the shining stars of this DJ-filled weekend is the North Coast Music Festival, returning to its home at SeatGeek Stadium for its much-anticipated 2026 edition. This year promises a stellar lineup featuring both rising stars and iconic legends, making it a must-attend event for any EDM enthusiast.

1. Richard Finger, Friday, The Vega

Kicking off the festival is Richard Finger, an enigmatic dubstep duo who has captured the attention of bass enthusiasts since their debut on SoundCloud in 2024. Known for their signature bass-heavy sound and a knack for crowd engagement, they’re set to electrify The Vega stage. Their journey from underground meme status to festival mainstays showcases the evolving landscape of EDM, and fans are eager to see this dynamic act live on day one.

2. Jigitz, Friday, The Stadium

The air at North Coast will buzz with the infectious energy of Jigitz, a breakout star in the UK garage and speed house scene. This Brooklyn-based artist has carved out a distinct identity, thrilling crowds with his spectacular performances, which often feature live ballerinas and quirky inflatable tube men. Jigitz will bring his electrifying presence to The Stadium, offering a performance that fuses visual artistry with high-octane rhythms, making him a standout act for Friday’s festivities.

3. Porter Robinson, Friday, The Shipyard

A name synonymous with visionary artistry, Porter Robinson is set to leave an indelible mark on the North Coast audience. Known for groundbreaking tracks such as “Language” and the collaborative anthem “Shelter” with Madeon, Robinson invites listeners into a world where music merges deep emotion with mesmerizing soundscapes. Anticipation is high for his set at The Shipyard, as his fans look forward to an unforgettable auditory journey.

4. Fisher, Friday, The Stadium

As one of dance music’s most charismatic performances, Fisher is bound to draw a massive crowd at The Stadium. Since the release of his chart-topping hit “Losing It” in 2018, Fisher has become a household name in tech house. Known for his lively energy and crowd interactions, he’ll be closing out the first night, promising to deliver an exhilarating set that will keep attendees dancing until the early hours.

5. Marie Vaunt, Saturday, The Shipyard

Shifting gears to Saturday, the atmosphere will pivot towards the hard-hitting beats of Marie Vaunt, an emerging star in the acid techno scene. With her tracks already commanding attention on global stages, including Tomorrowland, Vaunt’s show promises relentless rhythms and a powerful vibe. Fans can expect a night filled with high-energy techno that will keep The Shipyard resonate with kinetic energy.

6. ALLEYCVT, Saturday, The Stadium

Bridging the gap between creativity and bass, ALLEYCVT is quickly rising through the ranks of the EDM world. Following her exhilarating sets at renowned festivals such as Electric Forest and Tomorrowland, this Las Vegas talent is set to captivate The Stadium’s audience. Audiences can look forward to a complete immersion in sound as she unleashes her unmistakable dubstep flair, amplifying Saturday’s electrifying offerings.

7. Levity B2B Tape B, Saturday, The Vega

In an exciting collaboration, Levity and Tape B will join forces for a special back-to-back set that promises to be a highlight of the festival. Celebrated for their innovative sound within the dubstep genre, these artists are no strangers to the grind. Fans will be treated to a unique blend of styles, ensuring an unforgettable bass-infused experience in The Vega that’s sure to resonate with fellow bassheads.

8. BUNT., Sunday, The Stadium

Sundays at North Coast Music Festival typically encapsulate the essence of community and togetherness—a sentiment embodied perfectly by BUNT. This groundbreaking German artist is known for captivating audiences with their interactive 360-degree stage and emotional tracks. Their performance will spotlight the art of connection through music, offering a truly immersive experience that invites everyone to engage collectively.

9. Tchami, Sunday, The Vega

A pivotal figure in the future house genre, Tchami is celebrated for his innovative approach to sound. First gaining prominence with “Promesses,” he has since collaborated with pop icons like Lady Gaga, solidifying his status within and beyond the electronic world. Attendees can expect a groovy set as Tchami brings his French flair and deep house vibes to The Vega stage on Sunday.

10. Illenium B2B Slander, Sunday, The Stadium

Capping off an exhilarating weekend, the closing act of Illenium B2B Slander promises to be a euphoric culmination of melody and bass. Both artists have earned a reputation for their emotional tracks, and their previous collaborations have left fans yearning for more. As they take to the stage together, audiences can anticipate a breathtaking mix of nostalgic highs and bass-driven drops, designed to create unforgettable memories and wrap up the festival in spectacular fashion.

With an array of legendary acts and rising stars set to light up the stage, North Coast Music Festival 2026 is destined to be an electrifying experience. As the weekend approaches, anticipation steadily builds: who are you most excited to see?