We Belong Here Revives the Pulse of NYC’s Festival Scene

Some might say New York City’s music festivals have seen brighter days. In recent years, beloved EDM events like Electric Zoo have struggled to stay afloat, leaving a void in the city’s dance music landscape. While the glory days may seem like a thing of the past, a new era is unfolding. From the ashes, a phoenix rises, sparking the next chapter for music festivals worldwide.

We Belong Here has entered the chat.

Making its highly anticipated return last weekend, We Belong Here transformed Wollman Rink in Central Park into a three-day haven of melodic house and euphoric vibes. Now in its second year, the boutique event promised a transcendental experience, showcasing rising talent alongside headliners like Lane 8, Porter Robinson, and Nora En Pure. And it certainly delivered its promise.

From October 10 to 12, 2025, festival-goers reveled in golden-hour sets beneath the Manhattan skyline, immersive art installations, and an intimate crowd radiating positivity. Just two weeks earlier, We Belong Here made its debut across the Hudson with a Brooklyn edition in Greenpoint, unveiling a vibrant sanctuary along the waterfront. No matter the location, the festival’s ethos came alive, cultivating an inclusive environment where New Yorkers could dance freely.

As a first-time attendee, We Belong Here redefined the music festival experience for me. After nearly ten years in New York City, I’d grown accustomed to its nonstop bustle, but the festival offered a breath of fresh air. Framed by the city’s skyline, Central Park became more than just a backdrop. Amid the city’s chaos, the park’s calming nature struck a perfect balance. For once, New Yorkers weren’t rushing past each other; they danced together in harmony. With just one stage, there were no conflicting set times or fears of missing out. It was an open invitation to be fully present for every performance.

Every decision made by We Belong Here’s organizers was intentional, guided by four core principles designed to reshape how people experience live music. Central Park, with its sweeping lawns and skyline views, aligned effortlessly with the first principle: the festival must take place in a unique, scenic location.

The second principle emphasizes open space, featuring an expansive dance floor where everyone has room to move. At Wollman Rink, the oversized layout stretched across the venue, repurposing one of the city’s most iconic landmarks as a communal dance oasis.

The third principle centers on the 360° stage, which fosters a true symbiotic experience between the artist and audience. Without LED walls or flashing visuals, the focus remained entirely on the music in the moment. With the crowd surrounding the artists, you weren’t just watching the set, you were part of it.

The final piece of the festival’s masterful planning is the fourth principle: comfort. From craft cocktails and gourmet bites to shaded lounges and thoughtful amenities, every element enhanced the overall experience rather than distracted from it.

What impressed me most was how gracefully the organizers handled the unexpected. When a heavy storm was predicted to hit on Sunday night, they made the quick decision to move set times earlier in the day. They even provided free ponchos for attendees in need. Their attentiveness to safety, while preserving the festival experience, spoke volumes about their commitment to creating a memorable weekend.

As the final set played out and rain poured down during Nora En Pure, a profound sense of connection washed over everyone. The festival’s name was more than clever branding, it embodied everything that unfolded over the weekend. We Belong Here proved that it’s not just another festival. It’s not about the headliners, the production, or the spectacle. It was a reminder that in a city of millions, there is always a place where we belong.