HARD Summer lit up Los Angeles this weekend, delivering an electrifying array of performances that festival-goers won’t forget. Organized by Insomniac, the festival transformed Hollywood Park, next to SoFi Stadium, into a vibrant festival atmosphere, making it the ideal backdrop for this epic event.
The spacious grounds accommodated five main stages, allowing plenty of room for attendees to dance, explore, and soak in the exceptional music. With the festival hosted outdoors, the infectious beats radiated into nearby neighborhoods, announcing that HARD Summer was back and more phenomenal than ever.
The HARD Stage showcased headliners that attracted large crowds. A surprise performance from Nelly Furtado kept the festival buzzing with her classic hit “Promiscuous.” Disclosure also delivered a mesmerizing set that had everyone moving, featuring well-loved tracks like “She’s Gone, Dance On” and “Latch.” Fans appreciated Disclosure’s live performance over traditional DJ sets. Fisher and Chris Lake, performing together as “Under Construction,” electrified the audience with songs like “Atmosphere” and “TAKE IT OFF,” maintaining an exhilarating vibe throughout their set.
Throughout the festival, the stunning lights and visuals mesmerized the crowd, with each performance exhibiting a distinct flair. The combination of smoke, fire, and lasers heightened the intensity, creating an unforgettable immersive experience for all attendees.
At the purple stage, artists such as Joyty, Sofi Tukker, and Jamie XX kept the energy soaring. Meanwhile, the Pink and HARDER Stages entertained festivalgoers with performances from Chris Stussy, 33 Below, and Subtronics, leaving everyone wanting more.
While there were minor bottlenecks during set transitions and at the end of the festival reminiscent of last year’s opening day challenges, the transportation experience was a mixed bag. Some lucky attendees enjoyed seamless rides thanks to pre-arranged transportation, while others faced challenges securing Ubers post-event. Thankfully, those who planned ahead found it easy to navigate to and from the venue.
The event highlighted Insomniac’s experience in orchestrating large-scale affairs. Exploring the expansive grounds was a joy, with plenty of engaging attractions, including popsicle stands, art installations, and even a VIP pool to unwind in. Attendees were incredibly welcoming, participating in festival activities like trading kandi bracelets and capturing memories on Instagram and TikTok, while the dance floor remained alive with energy. The vibe at HARD Summer was truly unique compared to other festivals the writer has experienced.
The presence of shade throughout the venue was a standout feature that festival-goers deeply appreciated. Whether dancing at the stages or finding respite in the shade, HARD Summer was an indelible experience that left me eagerly anticipating next year’s lineup announcement.
For those looking to extend the excitement beyond 11 PM, numerous pre- and after-parties were hosted across LA. Featuring renowned artists like Zeds Dead, Hamdi, Chris Lake, and Sosa, these events ensured the momentum continued for those over 21. Whether you were a first-time attendee or a seasoned festival veteran, HARD Summer offered an exceptional experience that defined the ultimate EDM weekend.
