Written by Rebecca Hollman
Photos by @simplyyyg, @_zachdeloach, @blazejzalewski, @allamma, @veesanders
ARC Music Festival is back and bigger than ever! As the Labor Day weekend approaches, fans are gearing up for the ultimate celebration of electronic music at Union Park, Chicago. From August 29 to 31, ARC will return for its milestone fifth anniversary, and the lineup they’ve just dropped is nothing short of legendary.
This year, ARC promises to bring a mix of festival veterans, global icons, and rising stars that will take you on a sonic journey across genres. Whether you’re a techno purist, a house head, or into the freshest B2B sets, this year’s ARC has something for everyone.
The Big Names: Eric Prydz, Jamie xx, and More
Returning for the second time ever in a massive three-alias set, Eric Prydz will light up the stage with his iconic personas: Eric Prydz, Pryda, and Cirez D. As a festival exclusive, this is a rare opportunity to experience the depth of Prydz’s sound like never before.
But that’s just the beginning! We’re talking about some of the biggest names in the game. Jamie xx, the genre-defying superproducer, will bring his signature style to ARC, along with Chicago’s global house sensation, John Summit, who’s making waves worldwide with his infectious beats. Then, there’s the unstoppable Amelie Lens, a techno powerhouse whose sets have become the stuff of legends, as well as Richie Hawtin, a true pioneer in the electronic scene.
And if you’re looking to let loose with some high-energy dancefloor anthems, FISHER will be taking the stage to keep the party going all weekend long.
Epic B2B Pairings: A Journey Through Time and Sound
One of the most exciting aspects of ARC is its back-to-back (B2B) sets, and this year’s lineup has some absolute dream pairings. Hold on to your hats, because we’ve got Cajmere B2B Carl Craig, a Chicago and Detroit meeting of the minds that’ll have you grooving from start to finish. Then, there’s Green Velvet B2B Skepta Más Tiempo—this combination of Chicago house legend and grime master is guaranteed to be fire. For those who love a bit of old school mixed with new, Felix da Housecat B2B Mike Dunn will be giving you a masterclass in house music history.
Other can’t-miss B2Bs include Honey Dijon B2B Derrick Carter, Boys Noize B2B VTSS, and a mind-blowing pairing of Eris Drew B2B Octo Octa. And for fans of UK Garage, Skream B2B Hamdi will bring that underground UKG flavor straight to the heart of Chicago.
The House and Techno Heavyweights
It wouldn’t be ARC without a stacked lineup of house and techno talent. From the Duck Sauce project (featuring A-Trak and Armand van Helden) to Claude VonStroke (the founder of Dirtybird Records) and Nicole Moudaber, this year’s festival is a celebration of both legends and rising stars in the scene. Hot Since 82, DJ Tennis, and Loco Dice round out the house heavyweights, while Adriatique and Ki/Ki bring their underground vibes to the stage.
Techno lovers, don’t worry—you won’t be disappointed. Amelie Lens, Adam Beyer, Paco Osuna, and Nicole Moudaber are bringing some of the hardest-hitting, forward-thinking techno you’ll hear all year. Plus, Supergloss and Effy are rising stars you’ll want to keep an eye on.
A Nod to Chicago and Detroit’s Legacy
As always, ARC is paying homage to the roots of Chicago and Detroit with a special focus on the city’s rich electronic music heritage. You’ll experience DJ Sneak B2B DJ Heather, two of Chicago’s finest house music icons, along with the iconic Floorplan (the father-daughter duo of Robert Hood and Lyric Hood). And let’s not forget HiTech, whose electrifying mix of juke, footwork, and techno represents Chicago’s ever-evolving underground sound.
Chicago’s musical legacy will shine bright this year, with local torchbearers like Gene Farris, Josh Baker, and Shermanology keeping things fresh while continuing the tradition of world-class house music.
Rising Stars and Future Icons
Along with the established legends, ARC is giving a platform to some seriously exciting rising stars. Expect electrifying performances from artists like it’s murph, Kettama, Arielle Free, and TINZO + JOJO. These breakout talents are making waves and will surely leave their mark on the future of the electronic music scene.
The Vibe: A Journey Through Sound and Space
Whether you’re there for the high-energy techno, the deep and soulful house, or the unforgettable B2B moments, ARC 2025 promises to be a celebration of sound, community, and the power of music to bring people together. The vibe will be electric, with an incredible mix of different sounds, cultures, and moments that will last a lifetime.
If you’ve been waiting for that perfect festival weekend to let loose, dance like nobody’s watching, and witness some of the best DJ sets you’ll ever experience, ARC Music Festival 2025 is the place to be.
Don’t miss out—mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready to be part of a truly special anniversary celebration. See you at Union Park!
Full ARC Music Festival 2025 Lineup:
Check the full artist list above, because trust us—this is just the tip of the iceberg!
Tickets and More Information:
For tickets, event details, and additional festival info, visit ARC Music Festival’s Website.
Let’s make this 5th anniversary unforgettable!