All photos from Insomniac’s website unless noted otherwise
Tea parties, Techno and Top hats await
Get ready to tumble down the rabbit hole once more as Beyond Wonderland returns to the iconic Gorge Amphitheater in George, Washington, on June 21–22, 2025. This camping festival is a magical blend of world-class electronic music, immersive art installations, and a tight-knit community of festival lovers, all set against one of the most breathtaking natural backdrops in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re a longtime gorge-goer or a curious first-timer, Beyond Wonderland promises a weekend filled with epic moments, new friendships, and memories you’ll cherish long after the last beat drops. I had the pleasure of falling down the rabbit hole in 2022 and can’t wait for the frivolity and mischief this year brings!
Curiouser and Curiouser: Exploring This Year’s Lineup
The 2025 lineup is stacked with fresh sounds and legendary talent, carefully curated to satisfy every type of electronic music fan. Ranging from big room house, melodic bass, dubstep to techno, there is no shortage of genre variety. Here are five acts that you simply should not to miss:
- AHEE Known for his genre-defying bass music, AHEE (Chris Adams) is a master at blending dubstep, psybass, and drum and bass into high-energy, floor-shaking sets. His productions are a wild ride through innovative sound design, and his live performances are known for their infectious energy and crowd interaction. AHEE’s growing fanbase loves his ability to surprise with every drop, making his sets an unpredictable adventure you won’t forget.
- Chase & Status Hailing from the UK, this powerhouse duo has been shaping the electronic music landscape for over a decade. Saul Milton and Will Kennard fuse drum and bass with elements of dubstep, hip-hop, and reggae, producing hits that have crossed into mainstream success with collaborations alongside Rihanna, Plan B, and Snoop Dogg. Their live shows are a high-octane experience packed with dynamic rhythms, powerful vocals, and a stage presence that commands attention from start to finish.
- Cloonee Cloonee (David Bissett) has become synonymous with infectious tech-house vibes and dancefloor anthems. His beats carry a playful groove that’s equal parts funk and energy, making his sets irresistible for anyone who loves to move. Rising fast through the ranks in the UK’s vibrant house scene, Cloonee’s ability to blend catchy vocal hooks with pulsating basslines ensures he keeps the party going strong. When “Stephanie” comes on, watch out world!
- Sara Landry Sara Landry is the “high priestess of hard techno,” delivering dark, driving, and industrial sounds that transport listeners into hypnotic realms. A self-taught artist who started with a passion for grime and evolved into techno’s rising star, her sets are known for their intensity and emotional depth. If you’re looking for something raw and powerful, Sara’s performance will be a transformative highlight.
- INZO Chicago’s INZO (Mike Inzano) crafts ethereal, genre-bending electronic music that combines lush future bass textures with thoughtful, introspective vibes. His breakout hit “Overthinker” is a perfect example of his ability to mix downtempo beats with meaningful samples, creating an immersive experience that’s both uplifting and reflective. INZO’s sets are perfect for those moments when you want to get lost in the music and the moment.
Camping Under the Stars
One of Beyond Wonderland’s defining features is its immersive camping experience. Nestled right near the Gorge Amphitheatre, the campground becomes a festival village, buzzing with excitement 24/7. It’s the perfect place to recharge between sets, meet new friends, and keep the party alive after the main stages close.
Camping options range from general admission sites where you can pitch your own tent, to premium glamping packages with ready-to-go tents, comfy beds, and extra amenities. Whether you’re a hardcore camper or prefer a little more comfort, Beyond Wonderland has you covered. Check out camping options here.
The camping grounds also feature workshops, yoga sessions, art areas, and chill zones, making it easy to find your tribe and discover new ways to enjoy the festival beyond the music. Pro tip: come early to snag a great spot and bring essentials like a shade canopy, warm layers for chilly nights, and plenty of snacks to keep your energy up.
Venue Tips: Navigating The Gorge
The Gorge Amphitheater is rightly called the Eighth Wonder of the World, and it truly lives up to that title with jaw-dropping views and a unique natural terrain that’s impossible to find anywhere else. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:
- Observation Decks: Located on either side of the main bar, these decks provide unobstructed, panoramic views of the stage set against the stunning Gorge canyon. The sunsets here are nothing short of spectacular — make sure to get there early enough during golden hour to soak it all in and snap some incredible photos.
- Terrain and Footwear: The venue’s grounds are a mix of grassy knolls, gentle slopes, and rocky areas, so wear sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for walking and dancing. Personally, I feel most at home in Doc Marten boots where my ankles are supported and toes protected on the dance floor. Flip-flops might feel tempting but won’t cut it for hours on uneven terrain.
- Stay Hydrated: The summer sun can get intense, so bring a reliable water bottle / camelback and stay hydrated throughout the day. The venue provides free water refill stations, which are easy to find near the main stages and camping areas.
- Weather Prep: Evenings can get surprisingly chilly due to the canyon’s microclimate and proximity to the Columbia River. Layers are key—pack a light jacket, hoodie, or blanket to stay warm after dark. A pashmina scarf can be worn a few ways and offer a nice layer of warmth. I always purchase a locker at the gorge to stash a warmer jacket, as the wind can be quite biting.
- Explore the Grounds: Beyond Wonderland’s three main stages—Queen’s Valley, Mad Hatter’s Castle, and Caterpillar’s Garden—are surrounded by interactive art installations, themed lounges, and secret nooks perfect for resting or meeting new friends. Don’t just stay put—take time to wander and discover these magical hidden gems. I regret not taking more time to explore my first year and will be making time to do so this year.
- Costume Culture: One of the festival’s best parts is the enthusiastic participation in costume and cosplay. From classic Alice in Wonderland characters to wild, imaginative creations, dressing up is encouraged and helps immerse you in the whimsical spirit of the weekend. Get creative, express yourself, and be prepared for compliments!
- Stay Charged and Connected: Cell signal can be spotty in the Gorge, so plan ahead to meet friends and arrange rendezvous points. Portable phone chargers are a must-have to keep your devices powered through the weekend.
Friday Night Pre-Party
The official Beyond Wonderland pre-party on Friday, June 20, is your first chance to dive into the festival vibe and get your weekend started right. This event for campers sets a lively tone with a diverse lineup of exciting artists:
- Bou: A high-energy UK drum and bass DJ and producer, Bou’s rapid-fire beats and infectious rhythms are known to get dancefloors moving worldwide.
- Dirt Monkey: An American bass music powerhouse, Dirt Monkey combines dubstep, hip-hop, and trap influences to create electrifying sets full of heavy drops and innovative sound design.
- INZO: Chicago-based INZO brings his dreamy, genre-blending style of future bass and downtempo electronic music, perfect for warming up your mind and body before the weekend frenzy.
- Sloane Motion: A rising Seattle-based talent, Sloane Motion’s eclectic sets weave together electronic subgenres with a fresh and playful energy that’s perfect for setting the mood.
This pre-party offers an intimate, community-focused vibe where festival-goers can connect early, soak in the magical surroundings, and build excitement for the two days of music and madness to follow.
Beyond Wonderland at The Gorge 2025 promises to be a spellbinding weekend of incredible music, immersive art, and non stop fun. With the stunning backdrop of the Columbia River Gorge, world-class production, and a lineup packed with unforgettable artists, this is a must-attend festival for anyone who loves the thrill of live electronic music and the magic of community. So pack your bags, bring your best costumes, and prepare for an adventure down the rabbit hole like no other.