Gryffin Returns to San Francisco for an Epic Eye Heart NYE Set
Dance music sensation Gryffin has solidified his status at the pinnacle of the dance music scene with a remarkable collection of unforgettable tracks and unparalleled live performances. The year 2024 was particularly fruitful for him, marked by the release of his third studio album, PULSE, followed by a North American tour sharing the same name, and electrifying performances at major festivals like EDC Las Vegas, Coachella, and Tomorrowland.
Despite a year full of touring and a new album, Gryffin took the opportunity to return to his hometown of San Francisco to ring in 2025 at the iconic Eye Heart NYE event. This annual celebration, in partnership with EyeHeart and Northern Nights Music Festival, has been a staple for 16 years, earning its reputation as one of the best New Year’s Eve events in the area—something that intrigued me as a relatively new resident of the Bay Area.
Renowned artists like Steve Aoki, A-Trak, and Galantis have graced the Eye Heart NYE stage in previous years, and this edition was no exception with Gryffin headlining. After witnessing his surprise performance at Coachella, I was eager to see how he would deliver in a headline capacity. Before I knew it, New Year’s Eve had arrived, and I found myself in line for an artist I wouldn’t typically seek out, at a venue I had never visited before.
Upon entry, attendees were instantly immersed in an electrifying atmosphere, set to fantastic tracks.
I took some time to explore the venue, which was relatively easy given the event’s unique one-off nature. A grand pavilion housed the 360-degree stage, while a tent outside featured a silent disco with three DJs spinning simultaneously. The venue also showcased engaging installations, including a photo station for NYE memories.
With multiple bars available, the wait times were minimal. The open bar offered a generous experience without any significant restrictions—except, of course, for those who might have overindulged. I noticed that the VIP bar lines became particularly long about half an hour before Gryffin took the stage. As a result, I spent the rest of my time in the general admission area, where the real party vibe thrived.
As anticipated, Gryffin delivered an unforgettable set, marking a stellar transition into 2025.
As Gryffin took the stage, I was uncertain about what to expect. His music has always struck me as melodic and mellow. Having seen him at Coachella earlier in 2024, where he brought a vibrant energy, I pondered whether that was simply due to the surprise nature of the performance. However, I had no reason to doubt his headline show would be equally impressive.
Gryffin quickly captivated the audience with his greatest hits while also incorporating some heavier bass tracks. He elevated the energy with a mix of electro house, bass house, and more. He welcomed the New Year with a heartfelt edit of “Woke Up In Love,” creating a warm and memorable start to 2025.
Reflecting on the event, I recognized that it wasn’t specifically tailored for diehard dance music enthusiasts, and that’s perfectly acceptable.
While there was a major EDM headliner present, the crowd primarily consisted of individuals simply seeking an enjoyable way to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Initially, the ticket price of over $200 for general admission had me questioning the cost of attending a party featuring Gryffin.
Then it dawned on me. This event isn’t just another rave or dance music show; it’s a New Year’s Eve celebration designed for casual attendees looking for a memorable night out. Offering an open bar and a lineup of DJs playing catchy, sometimes playful dance tracks, it provides a great atmosphere with a prominent headliner to rally the crowd.
Ultimately, if you’re a dance music fan in search of a rave, countless other events around San Francisco on New Year’s Eve would fit the bill without breaking the bank. As a seasoned raver, I find it challenging to rationalize why attending a Gryffin show should cost as much as a ticket to see a favorite pop artist on a stadium tour.
Conversely, if you’re looking for a guaranteed good time where you can create engaging social media content and don’t mind spending a bit, Eye Heart NYE is definitely worth considering. While the price may seem high, the experience promises to be fun and unforgettable, making it a worthwhile New Year’s Eve outing.
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