ARC Music Festival returns to Chicago’s Union Park from August 29-31, 2025, bringing another stacked lineup that bridges the past, present, and future of house and techno. With a city as rich in dance music history as Chicago, ARC continues to celebrate the pioneers while pushing forward the next wave of talent. Read our review of last year’s festival and check out our favorites on the 2025 ARC lineup below.
ARC Music Festival 2025 Set Times
ARC Music Festival 2025 Lineup
ARC Music Festival 2025 tickets are available now.
ARC 2025 Headliners You Can’t Miss
Leading the charge at ARC is Eric Prydz, whose 20-year PRYDA anniversary tour is already in motion and is sure to bring the house down at ARC Music Festival. His signature blend of melodic builds and cinematic production elevates the festival experience. Heavyweights like Green Velvet, Adam Beyer, and Amelie Lens unleash relentless, peak-time energy, driving the pulse of ARC with electrifying performances that keep the dance floor in a state of pure euphoria.
Chicago’s very own John Summit makes his triumphant return, fresh off dominating festival circuits worldwide, while Jamie xx brings his genre-blurring, groove-heavy selections to the ARC stage. If you’re looking for pure techno, Nicole Moudaber and Cirez D (Eric Prydz’s darker alias) are set to deliver relentless, driving beats.
Chicago Legends Holding it Down
No ARC lineup would be complete without Chicago OGs. Derrick Carter, Gene Farris, Felix Da Housecat, and Cajmere continue to represent the deep-rooted legacy of Chicago House music. Their sets are always packed with history, energy, and the classic grooves that defined the genre. Also returning is DJ Heather, one of the city’s most respected selectors, bringing her deep, soulful house sound to the decks.
If you’re looking for an old-school-meets-new-school experience, make sure to catch Mike Dunn, a living legend who continues to evolve with the times, keeping true to that signature Chicago sound.
Underrated Artists to Watch
ARC isn’t just about the big names—it’s also a platform for the next generation of headlining artists. Here are a few of our favorites you should have on your radar:
- VTSS – A rising star in the techno scene, VTSS fuses industrial grit with high-energy beats, perfect for fans of dark, warehouse-style sets.
- Ki/Ki – If you’re into hypnotic, acid-tinged techno with a raw, ravey edge, Ki/Ki’s set is a must-see.
- Skepta Más Tiempo – Yes, that Skepta. The UK grime icon’s foray into house and techno under the Más Tiempo banner has been turning heads, blending percussive-heavy club sounds with his signature swagger.
- Shermanology – This sibling duo is known for their infectious blend of house and soulful vocals, creating an uplifting, groove-filled experience.
- Chloé Caillet – An underground favorite making waves with her deep, disco-infused house selections, bringing serious energy to the dancefloor.
What Else to Look Forward to
Beyond the music, ARC’s elrow takeover is always a festival highlight, bringing a carnival of chaos with its over-the-top production, costumed performers, and nonstop house beats. For those who like to go deeper, the Expansions Stage will once again be a haven for immersive, underground sounds.
From house to techno, legends to future stars, ARC Music Festival 2025 is set to deliver yet another unforgettable weekend in the birthplace of house music. Whether you’re here for the icons, the rising stars, or just the unmatched Chicago energy, ARC remains one of the most essential dance music festivals in the U.S.
ARC Music Festival tickets are on sale now. See you on the dancefloor!
Author: Christopher Mariano
Premier EDM 