I attended Gov Ball for the first time in 2018 and had such an incredible time. Not only is the lineup always killer, but they have so many beautiful art installations set up to showcase various artists' work including their name and socials to show extra love and support!

New York is my second home, and I truly love the way festivals feel in that city. I have no doubt I’ll be back this year to celebrate their 10 year anniversary and my return of such a fun festival. With a lineup like this year, there’s no way I can miss it.

Okay, let’s break it down. As EDM lovers, we are of course super stoked about the big electronic names on the lineup including Flume, Rüfüs Du Sol, Gryffin, Madeon, etc., but the cool thing about Gov Ball is that it has a more eclectic group of artists. We get some seriously major names in music in general like Missy Elliot, Stevie Nicks, Miley Cyrus, and Alessia Cara. Like, what???

But, beyond the names we see on lineups more frequently, or the names we’ve known as major artists for years, I wanted to give my top 3 artists to see that maybe, just maybe, you wouldn’t have thought to check out otherwise.

Max is an incredible talent with such an iconic voice. He’s the vocals on so many loved EDM tracks including “Beautiful Creatures” by Illenium, “You Want More” by 3LAU, “Lonely” by Matoma, and more. Even though he is the voice of so many of my favorite songs, I have to admit, I never really knew him as an artist on his own. Until last year at Firefly, I was walking by a stage and heard a familiar song, so I ran over to hear it. Once I made the connection, I stayed for his set, and truthfully he ended up being one of my favorite sets of the entire festival. He is a COMPLETE and TOTAL entertainer through and through. You do NOT want to miss him! Check out his song “Checklist” featuring Chromeo:

2. Sasha Sloan

Sasha Sloan is an artist I came across when searching for new music. Her voice is inviting and her lyrics are captivating. I’ve never had the chance to see her live yet, so I’m very much looking forward to being able to have that experience at Gov Ball. Her song “Older” was the first original song I heard of hers and it really struck me. I haven’t heard anything of her own music that I didn’t like. Beyond her solo stuff, she’s credited for some really unbelievable work including co-writing “Never Be The Same” for Camila Cabello and is featured on “This Town” by Kygo as well as “Falls” by Odesza! Yup, you already know her voice is magic. Check out her song “Smiling When I Die”:

3. Alec Benjamin

To be honest, I discovered Alec Benjamin through PR reaching out about his music, and I’m so glad I checked it out. His voice especially is wonderfully unique. He’s toured with artists of all different genres, including Jon Bellion, (who is also on the Gov Ball lineup!) Matisyahu, and Hoodie Allen. I love that he can fit in with so many genres of music, but also completely stand out on his own in his own lane musically. Although he does do a lot of touring, I’ve never had the chance to see a set yet, so I’m absolutely looking forward to doing so this year at Gov Ball.

Again, Gov Ball will be held on June 5-7, 2020 in New York City. Tickets are on sale NOW. I hope to dance with you there while we all celebrate 10 years of Gov Ball together!

Here are 5 reasons to consider making Big Dub one of the festivals on YOUR 2020 list!

Although I truly don’t believe any two festivals are totally the same, I completely understand why my friend told me if I love Electric Forest so much, I’d also love Big Dub. They were very similar for the vibes they give off. It’s a very chill, relaxed and at your own pace type of festival.

It’s also a camping festival which always gives an extra layer of really connecting to the festival. The way I described it to my friend was, “I got to do everything here that I wanted but didn’t have the chance to at Electric Forest.” I said that because, for anyone who has ever been to Forest, you KNOW there is just SO much to do that sometimes it’s hard to stay still or just relax because you don’t want to “waste” that time for exploring, etc. Big Dub allows plenty of time to just soak in the moment and really be in tune with the comfort of the outdoors.

Unlike many major festivals, Big Dub is a super small festival. That’s where truly so much of its beauty lies. They’re really focused on the experience of the festival and allowing each attendee to really soak it all in, in a peaceful and joyful way. Because of its small size, you really become a family with everyone around you. More than just your camping neighbors, you honestly see so many of the same people over and over throughout the weekend that it’s next to impossible to now grow your festival family!

Photo credit: gotchabitchez.com

3. It’s BYOB

Yup! You heard me! It’s BYOB! Glass isn’t allowed, but you’re free to bring alcohol with you into the festival grounds. This has so many amazing benefits that just aren't a possibility at other festivals. You don’t have to chance pregaming too hard in hopes of lasting you a buzz throughout the whole festival AND you don’t have to spend your money on those insane festival drink prices!

My top two favorite activities I went to were: Power Hour and Catalina Wine Mixer (YUP! remember, BYOB!!!) For Power Hour, there was a DJ playing and every time he switched the song… you guessed it, YOU’D DRINK! The Catalina Wine Mixer was truly just about the entire festival of people all in the same place, dancing, vibing and all with their own bag of wine. You’d literally just make friends with people and have them slap your bag, and then of course, slap theirs back. WINE on WINE on WINE! These are just a few activities that were available, but the two that I attended that really were something so unique that doesn’t happen at other festivals at all!

Again, because of the tight-knit essence to this festival, the prices are jaw-dropping (in a good way!) You have plenty of price-point options to choose from based on where you’d like to camp and which day you want to arrive. This year’s festival dates are as early as Tuesday, July 21st until Sunday, July 26th. Tickets are on sale now at bigdubfestival.com!

Still not convinced? Or just want to get a better glimpse into what I’m talking about? Check out their recap videos from the last two years to get an even better feel for the amazing energy that comes from attending Big Dub Festival!

Here's what made HiJinx in Philly so spectacular: 

With the Philadelphia Convention Center as the location, there was a very big and open space to hold all of us. Of course the closer you got to the stage, the tighter you were. But, there were PLENTY of areas to go if you wanted space, still getting an incredible sound and view. Personally, I don’t enjoy the music nearly as much if I feel too close for comfort, and don’t have the room I need to dance freely. Something that made HiJinx entirely fresh and unique for me was the fact that there was only one stage. Only one place for everyone to play. No conflicting sets. Just fire artist after fire artist and everyone in attendance radiating in the same energy, but experiencing it uniquely in their own way. What magic!

Artwork/photo courtesy of Hijinx Festival

To my surprise, getting into the venue was a breeze both days! Even if they lines were a little lengthy, they moved quickly and within a nice flow and order. Security was thorough and respectful. The lines to purchase food, alcohol and/or water were practically non existent. The best part? So were the lines for the bathroom! Of course those were a bit longer, but truly, compared to other events it went by like a breeze. They were well kept and clean! There were Porta-Potty options as well, but if you wanted a real bathroom, you really hardly had to wait. Arguably the best part overall? In addition to a water station, there were multiple water fountains between each bathroom with… wait for it… wait for it… fresh AND cold water!!! It was so refreshing and delicious!

The stage was huge and so dope. The light show from each set were breathtaking. So truly transcendent. Each and every artist on the lineup really went the extra mile to deliver an unpredictable, creative and mind-blowing set. From day 1 I think I have to say my favorite set was GRiZ because out of all the times I’ve seen him, it was the hardest, most dubstep heavy set he’s ever thrown down and it was everything I wanted it to be and more. For day 2 I have to say the Excision b2b Slander set because, well, how iconic! I love witnessing something when it happens for the first time. That set was the perfect amount of headbanging and feelings as you’d expect and desire.

Photo by Santina Murin during GRiZ set!

I truly feel so blessed to live this life as a part of the EDM community. I’ve never felt so understood, welcomed or accepted anywhere else in my life. To have so many beautiful friends to share these experiences with makes it all even better. It’s really what it’s all about. Finding yourself. Expressing yourself. Feeling the love of the community with your friends who are more like family.

5. My Day 2 Outfit

I felt so free, fun and cute rocking this outfit for Day 2! I was wearing and iHR x Rolita Delusion Thong Bodysuit, Neva Nude Black Vinyl Cross Pasties, and the Euphoria Galaxy Glider Combat Boots! I always feel so confident and comfortable in my homegameauction outfits!

Photo courtesy of Hjinx Facebook

HiJinx went the extra mile to offer ticket and hotel packages. Unfortunately, those combo packages are all sold out already, but if you’re still in need of a room, those hotels are still an option paid separately.

Three Hotels Close By to Hijinx

1. Home2 Suites by Hilton Philadelphia: This hotel is within walking distance to the Philadelphia Convention Center. At this hotel, every stay includes: free hot breakfast, free wifi, non-smoking rooms, fitness center, indoor pool, business center, pet friendly rooms, digital key, and an on-site restaurant.

2. Hampton Inn Philadelphia Center City-Convention Center: This hotel is within walking distance to the Philadelphia Convention Center. At this hotel, every stay includes: free hot breakfast, free wifi, non-smoking rooms, fitness center, business center, digital key, concierge, meeting rooms.

3. Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Center City: This hotel is within walking distance to the Philadelphia Convention Center. At this hotel, every stay includes: non-smoking rooms, on-site restaurants, indoor pool, fitness center, business center, digital key, resort, room service, meeting rooms.

What To Do While You’re There

While you’re not headbanging, dancing, and overall vibing out to all the sets HiJinx has to offer, you can explore some of the beautiful city of Philadelphia. Whether you’re a foodie, into history, or art, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

2. For the history buffs: You can see the Liberty Bell, tour Independence Hall (the birth-place of the United States) or visit the Founding Fathers at the National Constitution, the only museum dedicated to the US Constitution!

3. For the art lovers: Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is absolutely breathtaking! I’ve been there once before and I highly recommend going to explore their mosaic galleries. Some other museums include The Fabric Workshop and Museum, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Woodmere Art Museum.

If you’re expanding your trip to Philadelphia beyond HiJinx alone, I hope any of the places above peak your interest and you can add to Philly memories. One thing I find to be so incredibly rewarding about music events is the willingness we all have to travel to them. Sometimes they’re to city’s/states we’re familiar with and sometimes they’re places we’ve never been! I think when you’re traveling somewhere, especially new, it makes it a bit more worthwhile to also explore and get to soak in as much as possible. If you’re only going for HiJinx, that’s fine too! For more details about Hjinx check out this blog article! 

I hope to see you on the dance floor!

From the first time I saw an Illenium set, that was it. I was hooked for good. It was at EDC LV 2017, and for the first time, I truly found my sound, my home and it was in Illenium and his music specifically. My life hasn’t been the same since.

Fast forward to his third album release, Ascend, followed by a huge tour, there was no way I was missing his milestones. Set out to play 3 days at the iconic Red Rocks venue (two Ascend shows and one throwback set) in Denver, Colorado and the legendary Madison Square Garden in NYC, I knew I’d be there for all of them.

Not only was Illenium playing, and selling out, these incredibly famous venues, he started his tour in my hometown city of Pittsburgh. I couldn’t be more proud of my city representing the start to his tour.

Here are my thoughts from three stops of Illeniums latest tour:

Pittsburgh - September 18, 2019

For the first night of The Ascend Tour, Illenium played at Stage AE. This venue doubles as both an indoor and outdoor venue. Originally it was supposed to be held inside, but it ended up being held outside, which made all the difference in the world. The weather was perfect, the vibe was incredible, and I was so ready for whatever I was about to witness. The most exciting part, was preparing myself for absolutely anything. I’ve seen Illenium perform so many times, it was super exciting to not have any idea at all what he was going to do with his set! He did NOT disappoint.

MSG in NYC - September 21, 2019

Even with already seeing the set, I swear it just made it better. Just to be in the energy of a venue as iconic as Madison Square Garden was so surreal. You could just feel how consumed by humility and love he was for all of the support by his fans. It was a completely different experience!

Red Rocks - October 11-12, 2019

The only other time I’ve been to Red Rocks was for Illenium’s first time headlining the venue in 2018. It just felt right to be back for his Ascend tour as well. I ended up getting tickets in one of the first few rows, which completely changed the vibe! Getting to see the same set in so many different ways in the energy of so many various venues was so rewarding as a fan and as a serious music lover. Not only did I catch his Ascend set, but I also went to his Throwback set, too. That was my first time seeing a throwback set and I was completely floored. Getting to hear songs from his debut album, Ashes, as well as old remixes you can really only hear on SoundCloud was a dream come true. I know how rare and special a set like that is and I will remember that night forever.

My memories from Illenium’s Ascend tour dates are some of my all-time favorites. I wanted to hear from other Illenials about their experiences as well! I took to the Illenial Facebook group page to hear some incredible stories!

“I attended both his Ascend and throwback sets at Red Rocks this year and it was my first ever time seeing him play live after loving his music for so long. I also came from another country just to see him perform. My favorite part was the intro that he played, his intros always make me super emotional” - Jenna Lang (IG: _jenna.lang_)

“Saw him in Toronto about a month after a hard breakup. His music speaks to you on an emotional level and addresses a range of personal issues and struggles a lot of people face. It's incredibly relatable and cathartic. It helps you survive.” - Jordan Stanton

“I’ve been listening to Nick for years, and his music has been a soundtrack of sorts in my life, from happily jamming out with my friends, to pulling me out of some of my darkest corners. You can feel the emotions he has lived through as he performs each set and it’s enough to remind you that tomorrow is a new day and to keep going” - Gabri Elle (IG: bass.gypsii.)

Photo Credit: Gabri Elle

“I went to both the Red Rocks sets and the entire weekend was magical! Although this was my 5th and 6th time seeing him live, these sets were special to me because I am 6 months pregnant and I got to share this experience with my unborn daughter!" - Jennifer Rose

“My boyfriend and I went to see Illenium at Madison Square Garden and again at his stop in University Park, PA. As soon as the intro started playing I was in tears. Nick's music has the ability to turn me into a completely different and amazing person and seeing the Ascend show twice was truly life-changing.” -Lexi Kaplan (IG: lexxikaplann)

For those that don't know what the "Unicorn Crew" is - it's a special program that homegameauction offers to essentially be a brand ambassador for the weekend, along with 3-4 other girls. The Unicorn Crew "attends the festival together, wears matching homegameauction outfits, and interacts with attendees. The crew represents the brand at the festival and provides coverage of the event to their network of social media followers and fans. Anyone who loves EDM festivals, homegameauction, and is looking for a festival experience different from any other is welcome to apply!"

Maybe you’ve always wanted to be a unicorn, too, or maybe you’ve never really given it much thought before. Either way, I’d love to share my incredible experience to give you some insight on exactly what it was like, so maybe you’ll consider applying to be a unicorn, too!

Here are 5 reasons why I LOVED being a Unicorn:

1. The Friendships

Let me tell you - this group of ladies couldn’t have been any more perfect for one another. We all clicked instantly! Before even officially meeting in person, we actually had a poppin' group chat. We were all so different, but so similar all at the same time. Once we were actually together, it was as if we’d been friends for years! In fact, so many people were stunned to learn we actually just met only a few days prior and weren’t actually long-time best friends. It’s safe to say, we now totally are! It’s really comforting to know these are 3 other festival lovers who are there for the same reason, will have your back, and simply want to have fun with you while promoting such an incredible brand. I miss them already!

2. The Outfits

As part of the Unicorn Crew experience, homegameauction provides a bomb outfit for every day of the festival. Since Lost Lands is a 3-day festival, we each received 3 incredible matching outfits! The excitement and anticipation of waiting to see what we were going to get to wear was intense! It was also a relief having somebody from homegameauction style the clothes - it took a lot of pressure off of me for planning my outfit and it was nice to know I wouldn't be forgetting anything! I literally love everything on the website and I was happy to get to show off some of their incredible products. I can’t wait to mix and match some of these pieces into future festival outfits!

3. The Connections

Not going to lie, being 4 outgoing, fun, happy ladies all wearing matching outfits, we got a lot of positive attention in the way that so many amazing souls came up to dance with us, talk to us, and trade kandi with us even beyond the people we approached ourselves! Because of this, we made so many new friends and were able to hear so many incredible stories! A lot of people realized and recognized that we were the iHeartRave Unicorn Crew which was SUPER fun and exciting! We got to take so many photos with so many beautiful people. Making genuine connections with other people at festivals is one of my favorite parts of the community. SO much love, light, and positivity to be shared.

4. The Memories

Being an homegameauction Unicorn was definitely an unforgettable experience. Beyond all the positive interactions, kandi exchanges and photos taken with wonderful people, beyond the cool outfits and social media interactions, some of the best memories I’ll cherish forever from this experience is getting to do it as a group of women who truly supported, uplifted and empowered one another. We became friends instantly and really shared our love of music with each other. We danced together, we got emotional together, we shared our energy with each other and it’s something I’ll remember forever!

5. The Experience

Aside from everything I described above, this program is a really cool way to experience a festival in a completely new and different way, that might even be outside of your comfort zone! It can be scary thinking about attending a festival with three strangers, but trust me - it's worth it! Also, for me, it was my first year at Lost Lands, so I was excited to have this brand new experience at a festival I was going to for the first time. It made it all the more special to me.

Overall, this is an experience I can’t recommend enough. If this sounds like something you think is outside of your comfort zone, and if that’s the case, I encourage you to consider it even more! It’s an extremely positive experience that you really don’t get to have any other way. After being an homegameauction unicorn once, I am confident that I will try and apply for future festivals. It was without a doubt a weekend I’ll always remember and it wouldn’t have been the same without the 3 ladies I went with, all thanks to homegameauction, Excision and Lost Lands!

For more information about the Unicorn Crew program, click here.

Here's why you should join me for HiJinx at The Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia!

The Lineup

The lineup made quite the splash on social media, with so many people losing their minds over how HiJinx has successfully included so many big named, major festival headlining artists into just 2 days of fun. And it’s true. With acts like Bassnectar, Excision, Slander, GRiZ, Porter Robinson, Skrillex and Zeds Dead, it’s next to impossible for your jaw not to hit the ground. But, here’s your “pinch me” moment, because, yes, it’s real and it’s happening!

Must-See Sets

I think it’s safe to say, we can all agree this lineup is aboutely fire. While the 7 major name headliners are, in my personal opinion, all must-sees, I want to focus on the top 3 artists that aren’t headliners (yet!)

Big Wild

Big Wild is one of the most talented artists in this entire community. Seeing him live is a full on adventure. Not only does he produce songs and mix at shows, he plays instruments and sings, too. It’s seriously beautiful to witness. For a fun, vibey set, with a lot to entertain you in different ways, you most definitely don’t want to miss Big Wild. 

Subtronics

The first time I saw Subtronics was just this summer at Spring Awakening and I was completely blown away. After that set, I saw him about 4 more times this summer and his sets only get better and better. It’s so obvious how much he puts into each set to make every one stand out in their own way. If you’re looking for a wubby, dirty, dubstep set, this is for sure for you. Aside from this banger with Rusko, one of the most popular songs of 2019 is his song with GRiZ, “Griztronics.” I highly recommend it!

SoDown

I was recently introduced to SoDowns music by a friend and I’ve been trying to catch a set by him ever since! I’ll finally get to make that happen soon. If you’re looking for new music (who isn’t?!)  and haven’t heard of him yet, here’s your sign to do just that. Another song to make you feel like the true Queen/King you are, check out “Jet Black” and go from there!

NEW Production and Sound

Convinced Yet? If for some reason the lineup hasn’t forced you into a full send, check out what's new for 2019! According to HiJinxfest.com, “the salt of the half sends may remain, but the hearts, minds and souls of full senders will melt again with even more lights, lasers, video, monsters and a brand new custom sound system.”

Payment Plans

Tickets are on sale now! If you're worried about coming up with the cash for Hijinx, no worries. HiJinx offers payment plans to alleviate one major purchase hit at once. They offer 2 day GA and VIP tickets, but do NOT offer single-day tickets. No half-senders allowed, sorry!

After Parties

After parties aren’t announced quite yet, but I can only imagine how great they’re going to be! The party can’t stop, right? Keep your eyes peeled for those announcements! 

You can definitely find me at HiJinx this New Year's Eve! The lineup is mindblowing, my friends I want to spend that weekend with all decided that’s where they’ll be, and living in Pittsburgh makes sending it to Philly pretty easy and convenient! I hope to see you there!

Major headliners including Virtual Self, Bassnectar, Louis The Child and Skrillex is enough for a full send right there! But, of course, there are plenty of other big names to bring your jaw to the floor even more. How does Slushii, Tritonal, Herobust, Boogie T, and Said The Sky sound to you? Amazing. Check out the full line up below!

Lineup Courtesy of Lights All Night

Returning to Dallas Market Hall near downtown Dallas, Texas, Lights All Night is definitely the place to be for New Years Eve Weekend! Because this festival is on December 27th and 28th, it still leaves room to add in other festivities to be somewhere else for when the ball drops and the new year starts. Possibly another show or festival? (Definitely) Maybe a chill night in? (Probably not) Whatever your plans are for when the ball drops, you know where to be the weekend before.

Returning this year - the festival will again host two main stages which are said to be HUGE!. There's the Supernova stage that features LED screen production spanning the size of an entire football field. Then there's the Intergalactic Stage, which is designed "to mirror a European-style and intimate club environment." There will also be the return of the Silent Disco Stage, Disco Galaxy. In addition to the two main stages, two other stages will be transformed into "hyper-intimate outdoor-themed stages." These stages will be taken over by some of today’s top dance music record labels.

You can expect major headliners such as Skrillex and Virtual Self on Friday night, and headliners like Bassnectar and Louis The Child on Saturday night. So, you definitely don't want to miss out. Lights All Night Tickets are on sale now - GA and VIP tickets are available for purchase. If you’re really trying to end the year with a bang, bottle service packages are also available. 

If you need a little push on where to be for the end of the year celebration, just check out that lineup one more time and I guarantee I’ll be seeing you in Dallas!

Day 1:

Since Illenium was closing out Day 1, the entire day (and my outfit) revolved around him entirely. It goes without saying his set was my favorite of the day (and weekend) but that’s a given anytime I see him play anywhere.

Here Were My Top 3 Sets of Day 1:

Illenium

“I’m going extra hard today, I hope you guys are cool with that!” - Illenium, during his set. Yes, Nick, we are ALWAYS okay with you going extra hard! My favorite thing about Illenium is that although his music is very emotional and heartbreaking, he uses that pain and those feelings and delivers it in a way that can be felt differently in a live setting with heavier dubstep to really dance the pain away. He debuted a song, Gorgeous from his latest album, Ascend. He also gave a heads up for a few new tour dates added including one East Coast Throwback set. Since his announcement we now know it will take place in DC at Echostage.

Gud Vibrations (NGTMRE & Slander)

Seeing the three of them share their energy together will never get old. I love them as separate artists, but there’s something about a Gud Vibrations set that really just does it for me! It’s extra special because they simply vibe so well together. They are absolute magic giving us a set to go hard to, but then reel it back in and feel all the feels with tracks like “Superhuman,” “First Time,” and “Love Is Gone.” Not to keep you in your feels for too long, though, of course, as getting back to your regularly scheduled neck breaking is a priority, too.

Bonnie x Clyde

This was my first time catching a set by them! They played at Stellar stage right after Jusin Caruso and they truly brought all the dancing energy. Performing their highly anticipated new single release, Bad Behavior, they had everyone feeling themselves! I love the way Paige and Daniel interact with one another on stage. Their true friendship and respect for each other is so evident and translates beautifully into the delivery of the music.

Day 2

Day 2 was all about rocking homegameauction! Purple is my favorite color, and also the color associated with Moonrise, so this outfit was an absolute MUST for me. I love mixing and matching outfits to make something new. The top was one I’ve had for some time, and I paired it with the Purple Haze High Cut Booty Shorts with the Slave 2 The Rave Iridescent Chain Belt. Of course, we can’t forget about those killer sunglasses, too! I felt so amazing and got so many compliments!

Top 3 Sets of Day 2:

Jai Wolf

This was my first time seeing him and I was completely blown away. I love how effortlessly his set was so chill, but with just enough energy to keep you on your feet! He has so many beautiful songs with incredible lyrics, seeing and hearing them come to life was magical to me. One of my top sets overall, most definitely.

Ganja White Night

This was also my first time seeing them. Technically, I would have missed them, because they played when Seven Lions was scheduled, but unfortunately, Seven Lions had to cancel his set due to travel reasons. I was absolutely crushed, but, on the bright side, it allowed me the time to finally catch a Ganja White Night set, which absolutely did not disappoint. Overall success!

Tiesto

While so many headbangers made their way to Excision, I wanted to get a little more on the vibey side to end my night. I love and respect Tiesto so much, so this was a nice and calm way to end the weekend. Naturally, my favorite part of his set was when he dropped his Big Room Remix to “Good Things Fall Apart” by Illenium & Jon Bellion.

Even with a few scheduling hiccups and personal disappointments, overall Moonrise 2019 couldn’t have gone any better. Not only did the typical “annual” rain hold off, it wasn’t overbearingly hot either. Perfect weather really does make all the difference to a festival experience!

See ya next year, Moonrise!

Each and every line up was enticing to me, especially Charlotte, North Carolina since it’s the only one with my favorite DJ ever, Illenium on the line up! But, since they’re all so amazing, I wasn’t picky. I chose which one to go to mostly because of location, and by which one I’d have other friends attending, too. You’ll find me at the Columbus, Ohio location this year for my first ever Breakaway music festival!

If you’re not sure who to see at this year's Breakaway in Columbus, I’m here to help guide your decision of who to spend your time (and soul) with while you’re dancing the weekend away! See my top 5 must-see sets below.

Number 5: PLS&TY

Pronounced “please and thank you,” PLS&TY is absolutely crushing 2019 with incredible tunes including tracks like “Run Wild,” “Feeling Forever,” and my personal favorite, “Motives.” I’m actually a pretty new PLS&TY fan and I’m so glad to know him before I get to Breakaway. I caught a short, intimate set he played at Firefly this year (where he dropped Sound of Walking Away by Illenium, so yeah! INSTANT fan!) and was hooked. If you need a great song to get you in the zone of what PLS&TY has to offer, check out his fan favorite track, “Good Vibes.”

Number 4: Matoma

I’m a sucker for music that puts me in my feels and Matoma’s music does just that, but in a super good vibes upbeat way! I wasn’t familiar with too many of his songs, but one of my best friends who is also going to Breakaway who knows my music taste was spitting out song suggestions to me and you guessed it, I’m hooked. This will be my first time seeing a Matoma set, but I think his tracks are so amazing, I’m confident enough to say this is a can’t miss set! Personally, I can’t get enough of his song, "Slow" with vocals by Noah Cyrus.

Number 3: Felix Jaehn

For some seriously fun, danceable, tropical house vibes, you won’t want to miss Felix Jaehn. I really discovered him during Miami Music Week this year and haven’t stopped obsessing since! I only caught a little bit of a set he played during a MMW pool party, but it was enough to know I. Need. More. I got to meet him at a MMW afterparty and he was the kindest, sweetest guy! All the more reason to show love and support. I’m excited that Breakaway will be my first full Felix Jaehn set, and there’s no chance I’m missing it, and you shouldn’t either. I mean, come on, you have heard the song “So Close,” right?!

Number 2: Kaivon

My first Kaivon set was at Spring Awakening this year and it was nothing short of a complete roller coaster of emotions in the best way possible! If you want someone that can definitely go hard, this guy can do it all. He dropped Herobust’s “WTF” in his set, that’s how you know you’ll be breaking your neck at Breakaway. For some downtempo feels, too, check out one of his latest singles, “May We Meet Again.” He also recently remixed Alison Wonderland’s hit song, “Peace” and it’s absolutely fire.

Check out his live HARD Summer set here:

Number 1: Louis The Child

Finally, my number one, top, MUST SEE pick for Breakaway is Louis The Child. This dynamic duo is truly unstoppable in my mind. They get down and jam, they add layers of multiple genres in their sets and they are genuinely entertaining! Especially for how young they are, their talent and maturity is mind-blowing. I saw their full set at Firefly this year and it has made its way into one of my all-time top favorite sets ever. I also caught some of their practically-secret set at Electric Forest this year. Their energy is simply unmatched!

If you need a fire song by them to check out, listen to their fan-favorite track “Better Not” on their Kids At Play EP:

I hope this list of must see artists at Breakaway is helpful! It’s full of genre variety, totally different energy, but equally good vibes. These sets are where you’ll find me dancing at Breakaway. I hope to see you there, too!