The Brooklyn Electronic Music Festival (BEMF) is making a much-anticipated return on March 28, 2026, at 314 Scholes, marking its first appearance in seven years. This beloved festival encapsulates the vibrant spirit of Brooklyn’s electronic music scene, promising an eclectic experience that draws enthusiasts from around the world.
Launched in 2008 by a trio of passionate Brooklynites—Jen Lyon of MeanRed Productions, Katie Longmyer, and Sam Black—BEMF was born from the pulsating nightlife of local dancefloors. It originally thrived in intimate venues where every beat felt communal and every sweat-drenched moment mattered. That raw, unpolished energy was the foundation of BEMF, which quickly evolved into a hallmark of innovation and creativity, countering the increasingly corporate nature of the electronic music industry.
As Brooklyn’s nightlife landscape shifted—a turbulent dance of closures and reopenings—BEMF endured, becoming a pivotal hub for local curators. Its focus on grassroots talent has forged a unique identity within the festival circuit. Rather than relying on star-studded lineups dictated by corporate interests, BEMF champions homegrown artists who actively shape the borough’s sound. It’s this commitment that makes BEMF a festival worth celebrating.
This year’s lineup is particularly exciting, featuring seven curatorial visions unified under one roof and one ticket. The festival runs the gamut from 1 p.m. until dawn across five vibrant spaces within the 314 Scholes complex. The diversity not only highlights the musical breadth but also allows for a multi-layered festival experience, incorporating live performances, engaging panel discussions, and the delicious offerings of local food vendors.
One major highlight is the Warehouse stage (10 p.m.–4 a.m.), where the Support Women DJs initiative takes the helm with an all-female techno focus. This initiative shines a spotlight on artists who embody the spirit of empowerment and creativity in the electronic music scene. Some notable names include:
- Hiroko Yamamura
- Crossbow
- S7IK
- Angie Rey
Across various stages, attendees can expect an impressive variety of acts. The Skatepark will also host performances from artists like Body Bag, Nurse, and DJ Kellen, each bringing their unique flavor to the festival.
Meanwhile, the Wandering Barman stage (10 p.m.–4 a.m.) features an intriguing lineup meant to keep the energy high and the crowd engaged. DJs like Heads Know, DJ Thadz, and AG will take listeners on sonic journeys that challenge conventional boundaries and elevate the night’s experience.
For those who love the al fresco vibe, the Rooftop stage (10 p.m.–8 a.m.) welcomes attendees into a breezy atmosphere with acts such as Hot Honey Sundays and Ultra Violet, promising a mix of established and emerging talent that will cater to all tastes.
As the night wanes, the Warehouse transforms again from 4 a.m. to 12 p.m. with an extended lineup, featuring notable names like Vigilante x Benny Soto and Shvili. This late-night set represents the festival’s dedication to defying conventional time restrictions, allowing music lovers to dance until the sun rises, encapsulating the late-night love affair that Brooklyn is known for.
For those eager to explore the eclectic talents and diverse experiences that the Brooklyn Electronic Music Festival has to offer, detailed information is available here. BEMF promises not just a festival, but a vibrant celebration of community, creativity, and, above all, the music that brings us all together.
