[FESTIVAL REVIEW] EDC Las Vegas Remains Industry Leader in Dance Music Events

Paije Kantor | May 28, 2024

The marathon weekend of EDC Las Vegas has ended as quickly as it began– a 72-hour blur of lights, dancing, and countless sets by some of the industry’s leading talent. As we recover, we have the opportunity to reflect upon the reel of highlights that made the weekend unforgettable, as well as deconstruct the qualities that have solidified the daisy carnival as the frontrunner in festival innovation and execution year after year.

First and foremost, the collection of artists featured at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway brought nothing but astounding tracklists and mixes that kept crowds bouncing until sunrise.

Standout sets included Sara Landry at an overflowing Circuit Grounds, a fully-original Wooli set at Basspod, Fred Again.. surprise set at Circuit Grounds, Odd Mob and OMNOM present: HYPERBEAM at Stereo Bloom, a long-awaited Subtronics b2b Level Up at Basspod, three sets by Eric Prydz, Worship Artists closing night two followed by solo sets from each member, a last minute JOYRYDE b2b HABSTRAKT at Cosmic Meadow, Chicago house legends Green Velvet and John Summit in the sunrise slot, and surprise appearances by Sara Landry and John Summit at Mau P’s Camp EDC closing set.

Author’s favorites included Eli Brown b2b HI-LO, Cassian, Dimension, Angerfist, Tiësto, Kayzo: Unleashed, HEDEX, and Wade. Although there were too many mind-blowing performances at the 2024 daisy carnival to describe, fans were enamored all weekend by opportunities to attend unique sets and collaborations by their favorite artists. EDCLV 2024

With respect to the venue layout adjustments, there were minimal issues with large crowds bleeding into walkways. Basspod, which had been a major source of traffic previously, never overflowed and underwent a major improvement in sound quality, decimating sound bleed from the neighboring Wasteland. Neon Garden and Quantum Valley occupied the previous locations of the bass and hardstyle stages, with Neon Garden receiving a complete makeover that provided overhead coverage and increased production capacity.

As EDC gradually grows into its massive speedway venue, Insomniac creates more creative activities to utilize any empty space. Branded activations included Dunkin', STIIIZY, SKYY Vodka, and more. The possibilities of Downtown EDC are endless-- attendees may find themselves line dancing at the YeeDC country saloon, attending a wedding, participating in a gameshow, gambling in the Insomniac Passport lounge, grooving in a disco club, getting a haircut, relaxing in a sanctuary, or grabbing a drink at the famous Mini Bar.

Although the adjustments were beneficial overall, there were issues with the sound quality at some art cars, particularly the newly introduced Meta Phoenix car. However, sound bleed is nearly guaranteed in art car locations due to the size difference and proximity to nearby mega stages. Lastly, GA+ restrooms suffered long lines that were not significantly better than the GA restrooms all weekend, leaving some concerned about whether the upgrade was worth the value.

As seen in previous years, Insomniac continues to step up the value of their VIP Elevated Experience pass. From upgraded restrooms, to the extra dancing space, food options, stellar views, and activities, the EDC elevated experience was certainly worth the steep price. If you’re looking to splurge on a VIP pass at a major festival, look no further than EDC Las Vegas. EDCLV 2024

End Overdose, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to educate the public about the risks and safer practices surrounding recreational substance use, as well as mass-distribute Narcan [naloxone] and train festival goers on proper implementation of overdose treatment, utilized their partnership with Insomniac Events to train at least 20,000 attendees throughout the weekend. The organization established two locations-- one located in Camp EDC and the other within the speedway-- staffed by gracious volunteers teaching and distributing free Narcan essentially around the clock. End Overdose has become one of the most impactful partners of dance music events, and continues to facilitate life-saving change with respect to the increasing threat fentanyl poses to innocent lives. As of 2024, End Overdose is present at many Insomniac festivals, in addition to dozens of other events throughout the year. It is heavily encouraged to seek out one of their pop-ups onsite, or utilize their online services to better protect yourself, loved ones, and strangers at events. Check out End Overdose's calendar, Naloxone training, ways to support, and library of resources HERE.

EDC Las Vegas continues to improve and impress with each iteration, further solidifying itself as an industry leader among the world’s most extravagant events. iEDM cherishes the opportunity to attend EDC, and cannot wait to see what Insomniac has in store for 2025.