John Summit’s Experts Only Festival announces NYC return and phase one lineup
Experts Only Festival returns to NYC with a stacked first lineup reveal
John Summit’s Experts Only Festival is returning to Randall’s Island in New York for a two-day event on September 19 and 20, 2026.
Having quickly become one of the most in-demand names in global dance music, John is always thinking outside the box and keeps fans on their toes, wondering what he’ll do next. Last year, when he announced his own festival in New York, a market that had been lacking a large-scale electronic music event, fans erupted with excitement. Not only did they get the opportunity to see him perform, but they were also able to experience his curated vision firsthand. John and his team have built a reputation for excellent execution, keeping both the music and the fan experience at the center of everything they do.
Last year’s festival was a major success, selling out and drawing more than 50,000 fans. In the days that followed, it became one of the most talked-about dance events of the year. The lineup was both gender-inclusive and diverse, and John incorporated surprises for fans, including a pop-up set. He avoided overselling tickets, allowing attendees space to dance comfortably, and thoughtfully designed the layout with designated, well-spaced rest areas. Femme House hosted its own tent, giving fans a hands-on experience with DJ decks. Food and drink options were extensive, and transportation to and from the event was seamless. It’s no easy task to execute a festival, especially a debut, at such a high level, but based on fan feedback, Experts Only was a resounding success.
With John Summit’s new album, CTRL ESCAPE, set to release on April 15 via Experts Only/Darkroom Records, attendees can expect to experience his latest work live, a project that explores the contrast between everyday routine and the release of the dancefloor.
Phase one of the lineup has also been announced, featuring electro-soul artist GRiZ, classic house duo Prospa, dubstep duo SUBJOHNICS (John Summit and Subtronics), rising melodic house and techno artist Jackie Hollander, and one of the most talked-about names in the scene, Devault. Additional artists include LYNY, Korolova, Taiki Nulight, Dreya V, OMRI., Partiboi69, Dansyn, Airrica, Gabss, MADI, Soraya, Mishell, and Rohaan, with more to be revealed in the coming months.
Experts Only has evolved beyond a label into a global movement centered around creative freedom and community. The festival is produced in partnership with Medium Rare, Relentless Beats, and EMW, and fans can expect elevated production across multiple stages, expanded fan experiences, and a lineup of standout global electronic artists. It’s truly an experience not to be missed.
Tickets for Experts Only Festival 2026 go on sale this Friday, April 3. The Artist and Festival Presale begins at 10:00 AM EST and runs through 11:59 AM EST, followed by the General Onsale at 12:00 PM EST the same day. Fans are encouraged to register early and secure access at https://www.expertsonlyfest.com/
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