Insomniac Opens New San Diego Nightclub NOVA SD

Paije Kantor | March 05, 2022

The anticipation is over. Insomniac has officially opened its newest club, NOVA SD. Located within the Gaslamp District of Downtown San Diego, NOVA currently occupies the space previously known as OMNIA Nightclub. The announcement of an Insomniac location in San Diego caused a massive stir among the Southern California EDM community and club-goers. Insomniac has shown increasing interest in establishing roots within San Diego County with Audiotistic's expansion to Chula Vista in 2021. The recently-vacated OMNIA space is a promising opportunity, with close proximity to hundreds of restaurants, Petco Park, several universities and beaches. The Gaslamp District is a thriving nightlife hub, and NOVA SD is the perfect addition.

In January, Insomniac announced a massive lineup for its opening month featuring top-notch acts such as Deadmau5, Diplo, Tiësto, Steve Aoki, and Illenium. The schedule, suggesting a dynamic range of artists in the future, sparked excitement among San Diego ravers and the Phase 1 events quickly sold out. The inclusion of bass music in San Diego has been highly-anticipated since the closure of Insomniac’s Bassmnt nightclub in 2020. The new space holds great potential to satisfy the cravings of fans of all dance music genres.

Celebrating its grand opening February 25-26, NOVA SD unveiled its unique renovations and atmosphere alongside headliners RL Grime and Deadmau5. Renovations include the removal of several VIP tables to expand the GA dance floor, and improved production. In addition, NOVA SD offers a large bar, second-floor balcony, terrace, and rooftop. NOVA is already set apart from its competitors with its variety of dancing and seating areas, a feature not often seen in EDM club spaces. Although NOVA SD is an Insomniac asset, its environment is slightly different from other Insomniac clubs, like Exchange LA. The ambiance is upscale, as seen by the dress-code, extensive VIP tables, and bottle service. NOVA is more reminiscent of nightclubs in Las Vegas, rather than typical rave clubs and dancehalls.

The first night of the sold out grand opening featured RL Grime with Rossy as direct support. The decision to book RL Grime as the opener is suspected to be based on his latest album, titled Nova. Even if this was merely a lucky coincidence, RL Grime is guaranteed to attract a large crowd with his irrefutable talent. His set consisted of classic trap music, current hits, and several fan-favorites. Although NOVA is a large space, the dance floor feels extremely intimate. It’s a great way to see your favorite artist in close proximity.

The second night hosted Deadmau5 alongside Harvard Bass. Both artists played two hour techno-heavy sets. The San Diego fans were extremely enthusiastic about an intimate Deadmau5 show, since he often attracts a festival-sized crowd. Likewise, Deadmau5 seemed to be excited to have the opportunity to directly interact with his fans. In an endearing moment, he was handed a fan-recreation of the iconic mau5 head and he decided to wear it for part of his set. Deadmau5 ended the special night with an unreleased track.

NOVA SD is a great experience, but the most unique characteristic it brings to the San Diego scene is range and diversity. While the Phase 1 lineup includes a mix of trap, dubstep, techno, the Phase 2 schedule is house-heavy with upcoming performances by Oliver Heldens, Valentino Khan, ACRAZE, Deorro, and more. Whether you’re interested in hosting a special night at the VIP tables or immersing yourself within the crowd, NOVA offers the experience you’re looking for.

Check out NOVA SD's Phase 1 & 2 lineups below.