Over the last two weekends, We Belong Here put on some of the most unique events within the New York dance music scene in the past few years. The event group staged six unforgettable parties over two summer weekends at Governors Island, including Memorial Day Weekend. This summer series on Governors Island treated attendees to incredible panoramic views of the NYC skyline and neighboring structures like the Statue of Liberty. Open-air ferries whisked them to the island, and there were tons of amenities to explore beyond the festival itself. If you weren’t at Governors Island, due to prior commitments or travel plans, you definitely belong there!
In terms of getting onto the island, attendees were able to hop on a short 15 minute ferry from South Street, and take in the picturesque city line views. After hopping off, there was another walk but went by very quickly because you were left taking in the views of the island and also the city from the other side. Once into the venue, you are treated to a grasslike field, sun-kissed vibes, and a bunch of food trucks/tables. It was a vibe in terms of how it felt like you were in a park or even having a picnic with friends. Foodtruck options were spectacular as well, with burgers,tacos, wings, fries, desserts, and even lobster rolls. There was also free water jug dispensers available so all you needed was your own cup/bottle.
Throughout the six epic parties, the series featured diverse lineups with 23 artists across many different genres. During Memorial Day Weekend, the island had industry hitters such as Le Youth, Simon Dioty, Aluna, Tita Lau, Chapter & Verse, SIDEPIECE, Sam Blacky, and Bakke perform. Weekend two was also not lacking at all in terms of the talent We Belong Here brought to town. And during weekend two 5/31-6/2, Techno Queen Korolova, Jeremy Olander, Bakermat, Amtrac, Nora Van Elken, Calussa, and afro house talent Maz.
Besides the amazing weekend over the two weekends, We Belong Here did a spectacular job in terms of presenting such an organized and unique island party experience. Attendees could feel the community and openness of the crowd, with the common denominator being their love for dance music. They also did not oversell the shows so that there was adequate space in the crowds to maneuver around. For those who wanted a more premium experience, VIP tables on the side were available for booking.
“We’re committed to bringing unique experiences to unexpected locations across New York City and building community through music and connection, One thing that makes New York special is its island makeup. In the summer time, people travel around the world to experience dance music in island paradises, and we wanted to carve out a little slice of that right here at home.”
– Justin Dauman, Co-Founder of We Belong Here
“This is just the beginning of what we have in store for the local community. Our focus is on putting the fan experience at the center of every decision we make, and we can’t wait to continue bringing people together through the power of music.”
– Charles Hochfelder, Co-Founder of We Belong Here
Building on the enthusiasm for the Governors Island series, We Belong Here is bringing a similar series to Pier 16 later this summer. Continuing its commitment to creating unforgettable events in landmark locations, Pier 16 is the oldest active wooden pier in New York City not typically utilized for musical performances and We Belong Here is bringing in a production setup specifically for these events:
- Sunday, June 23rd, 5-10 PM: Massane + Jewels
- Sunday, July 28, 5-10 PM: Bontan + Black Circle with support from Branqueeno and Kitty
- Sunday, August 11, 5-10 PM: Sparrow & Barbossa with support from Purple
For all upcoming We Belong Here shows, check their official website here. In particular, they will be hosting their We Belong Here Festival in Central Park, NY on Oct 4-6.
