Electro and urban sounds under the sun at îLESONIQ

Robyn Fadden

Robyn Fadden is a Montréal-based writer and editor who searches out city secrets, new bands, life-changing art and things to do with her perpetually active kid. Robyn has covered major events for HOUR, MUTEK, ARTINFO, CKUT 90.3FM and more.

This article was updated on August 3, 2022.

Montréal club culture has always been hot, from the days of disco to after-hours extravagance – îLESONIQ boosts electronic and hip-hop clubbing to incredible summer-festival heights. This year, the festival brings electro stars Eric Prydz, Illenium b2b Excision, Swedish House Mafia and many more to Montréal's sunny shores.

Electro park life

Pulling out all the stops with double the speakers and subwoofers for its 7th edition, îLESONIQ keeps festival-goers dancing on the weekend of August 5 to 7 among the forests and flowers of Parc Jean-Drapeau on beautiful Île Notre-Dame, plus a bonus night of music at îLESONIQ en ville on August 4.

On the heels of indie-rock heavyweight weekend Osheaga, îLESONIQ doesn't miss a beat with over 50 artists on three outdoor stages, from early afternoon to well past sunset, plus interactive games, high-tech art, a mini water park and more activities. Go for one day of fun, experience the whole wild weekend, or even treat yourself and friends to one of the festival’s premium experiences.

Dance all day

There's a sound for everyone at îLESONIQ, whether you're there to dance in the surround-sound atmosphere or simply soak up the good vibes. Among the festival’s high-energy bass, techno, house, EDM and hip hop music creators storming the main stage this year, see headliners like platinum-selling Swedish producer Eric Prydz, American melodic electro master Illenium b2b with Excision’s dubstep, progressive supergroup Swedish House Mafia, a festival-sized classic set by John Digweed, and, always a good time, Montréal’s own Black Tiger Sex Machine.

From the main stages to the stages among the trees and next to the river, catch major players and emerging artists sure to amaze, including German techno legend Dixon, Dutch EDM DJ Don Diablo, German deep house composer-producer Ben Böhmer, Parisian producer Tchami, UK dubstep producer Zomboy, California duo Louis the Child, indie award-winners DVBBS, French star Madeon live, Egyptian trance duo Aly & Fila, LA dubstep producer Kompany, Australian dancefloor shaker Blanke, Florida rapper Cochise, Jamaican rapper Sean Paul, and more artists bringing even more heat to this high-summer weekend.

 

Eat and drink

Let your cravings lead you to flavour town at îLESONIQ – all kinds of food kiosks and gourmet-level food trucks await on site. Indulge in mouthwatering burgers and classic poutine, sandwiches, made-to-order pizza, sushi and more – or bring a picnic of your own. Quench your thirst with water and speciality soft drinks or beer and spirits (bring two valid pieces of ID to prove you're 18!) Stay hydrated by bringing your own (empty) clear plastic water bottle and filling it at water refill stations. For more info on the site, check out îLESONIQ’s FAQs.

 

Sounds of the city

îLESONIQ is also known for throwing parties right in the city centre. Watch for concert announcements and after-parties from îLESONIQ presents, as well as late-night parties at clubs in the city – check out our guide to electronic music in Montréal and get your nightlife on in Montréal. Get ready to rave!

Robyn Fadden

Robyn Fadden is a Montréal-based writer and editor who searches out city secrets, new bands, life-changing art and things to do with her perpetually active kid. Robyn has covered major events for HOUR, MUTEK, ARTINFO, CKUT 90.3FM and more.

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