Beyond Wonderland Chicago 2025: A Journey down the Rabbit Hole

As the first rays of summer touched down in Chicago, Beyond Wonderland 2025 opened its gates to one of the most immersive and unforgettable experiences the city has seen. Held at Northerly Island, the festival not only brought together a stellar lineup of artists but also elevated the production, theme, and overall atmosphere to new heights, making it the perfect way to kick off festival season.

The Lineup: A Beautiful Blend of Sound

Beyond Wonderland Chicago 2025 didn’t hold back when it came to curating a lineup. Day One featured iconic acts like Marshmello, SLANDER, and MK, who set the tone for an electric weekend. These headliners were joined by a range of rising stars like With Løve, Lost in Dreams, and YDG, who kept the energy high and the crowd buzzing. Bass-heavy performances from Bassrush Experience, Virtual Riot, and William Black made sure the first day felt like a nonstop party.

Day Two was equally stacked, with heavy hitters like Illenium, Subtronics, and Green Velvet dominating the stages. Mersic, Netsky, and Boogie T brought their own flair to the scene, filling the air with explosive energy. While the diversity of the lineup was undeniable, we couldn’t help but wish there had been a stronger representation of genres like future bass, hardstyle, and progressive house, which would have added even more depth to an already stacked lineup.

Right where we belong w/ @ILLENIUM at #BeyondChicago 🐦‍🔥 pic.twitter.com/wWyM0cHCSi

— Beyond Wonderland Chicago (@BeyondWlandCHI) June 9, 2025

Production: Stepping Into Wonderland

From the moment we arrived at Northerly Island, it was clear that the production would be nothing short of spectacular. The team behind Beyond Wonderland went all out to bring the Wonderland theme to life. It wasn’t just about the music; it was about fully immersing yourself in a surreal world that felt far from the hustle of Chicago.

The stages were a sight to behold, with vibrant colors, intricate designs, and larger-than-life installations that transported festival-goers to another dimension. The use of art installations was particularly impressive, from towering sculptures to whimsical performers that added an extra layer of fantasy to the event. Every corner of the venue felt carefully designed to enhance the experience, drawing you deeper into this fantastical world.

Performers in costumes roamed the grounds, adding to the sense of magic and wonder. The creative visuals tied together the theme beautifully, transforming the venue into something truly special. Beyond Wonderland wasn’t just an event – it was an experience, a complete escape into a dreamlike reality.

The Venue: An Urban Oasis

Northerly Island has always been a prime spot for music festivals, but Beyond Wonderland took full advantage of its natural beauty and secluded location. Nestled right by the lake, the venue provided stunning views of the Chicago skyline, offering a breathtaking backdrop as festival-goers immersed themselves in the music. It felt like you were in a world of your own, completely detached from the hustle of the city.

The layout of the festival was meticulously planned, with plenty of room for the stages, carnival rides, and art installations to coexist without feeling cramped. Last year’s weather challenges were addressed head-on with the addition of more stage tents, which ensured that everyone could enjoy the music and visuals regardless of the elements.

Carnival rides added an extra layer of excitement, giving attendees something to do between sets while still staying within the festival's magical theme. The natural beauty of Northerly Island combined with the curated festival layout created an immersive setting that only elevated the entire experience.

The Overall Experience: A Summer Kickoff Like No Other

Beyond Wonderland Chicago 2025 was a festival unlike any other. It wasn’t just about the music – it was about stepping into a completely different reality where the lines between fantasy and reality blurred. The lineup, production, and venue all worked seamlessly together to create a one-of-a-kind experience that left us in awe.

What truly sets Beyond Wonderland apart is its ability to continually evolve. With every year, the festival grows in scale and immersiveness, and the 2025 edition was a perfect example of this. The attention to detail, the flawless execution of the Wonderland theme, and the beautiful venue all combined to create an unforgettable weekend.

As the last beats faded and the sun set on the weekend, we found ourselves eagerly anticipating what Beyond Wonderland will look like in the years to come. It’s clear that the festival is only getting bigger and more immersive, and we can’t wait to see what they have in store for us next year.

For information on next year, follow @aurispresents and @insomniacevents on social media and check out the official website: https://chicago.beyondwonderland.com/