The Chicago Blog

Labor Day weekend is usually a time for relaxing. The three-day weekend is a much-loved occurrence for many people. Some grill in their back yards, putting the last bit of warm weather to good use. Some visit family or go camping – to end the summer on a good note. This year, however many celebrated differently. This year, they spent three of their days having their minds blown by some of the best bands in the country.
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The North Coast Music Festival made Labor Day weekend into an unforgettable event. Big name bands from all over the country, as well as local artists performed on four stages over three days in Union Park. Thousands of music fans flocked to the premiere festival to see popular acts such as The Chemical Brothers, Nas & Damian Marley, Umphrey’s McGee, the Disco Biscuits, Moby (performing a DJ set), Pretty Lights, and De La Soul.

It was a very windy and often chilly weekend. As the sun went down each day and temperatures fell, the best way to keep warm was dancing in the crowds. The atmosphere throughout the park was filled with excitement and joy. The positive energy from both performers and festival goers was almost overwhelming, especially for a first run.

On Friday, DJs Paul Kalkbrenner and Paul Van Dyk got everyone moving and dancing. They warmed up audiences for the night’s headliners: The Chemical Brothers and Pretty Lights. Both headliners put on amazing shows, entrancing audiences as they performed. The Chemical Brothers had every persons hands in the air. Pretty Lights featured a spectacular stage design with a colorful lights show that seemed to turn the park into a raving night club. Glowsticks and balloons were tossed throughout the crowd as everyone grooved to the music.

Saturday’s line-up was packed with highly anticipated acts. Van Ghost, The New Deal, Jay Electronica, De La Soul, Umphrey’s McGee, and Moby (DJing) were a few of the days’ favorites. Jay Electronica’s mix of serious political messages and dirty humor made his set unforgettable. Various guests joined him on stage throughout his performance, adding to the unique experience. De La Soul packed the area in front of the Groupon Stage next. Old fans and new enjoyed the hip-hop group’s energizing set. Later, Umphrey’s McGee and Moby (performing a DJ set) battled for the attention of festival goers. Both had engaging sets and lights to compliment their personal musical moods.

When not enjoying the day’s musical acts, people enjoyed food from vendors such as Veeras Way, O’Briens, The Abbey Pub & Restaurant, Soul Vegetarian, Pizanos, and Tiparos Thai. I had fried coconut shrimp from The Abbey – it was filling and warm, which perfectly balanced the cold weather. The lines at beverage ticket booths all over the festival seemed to never end. Note to future festival goers: get as many beverage tickets at once as you think you’ll need for the day, the lines are always ridiculous.

Merchandise vendors and festival sponsors also had booths along the food and beverage areas. People shopped at booths selling clothes and accessories as well as band merch and custom t-shirts. Detroit-based media company Detek was there promoting their exclusive parties and selling t-shirts decorated with the phrase “I Love You But I’ve Chosen Techno” in various styles. Honest Teas and Juices promoted their drink items with samples at their booth. The low-sugar, high antioxidant beverages were refreshing and perfect for dehydrated festival goers. Other booths had jewelry, scarves, shirts, dresses, hats, and other accessories for sale – many items were handmade or environmentally conscious.

Overall, the North Coast Music Festival was a success. Great national and local bands played for large, excited crowds in a perfect setting. The festival was a prime example of Chicago’s enormous love for music and ability to embrace new events as equally as older annual festivals.