Portola Music Festival

Portola Music Festival 2024: San Francisco’s EDM Epicenter Returns

As summer fades, San Francisco’s party season kicks into high gear with the return of the Portola Music Festival, a two-day spectacle that’s cementing itself as a West Coast institution for electronic music lovers. Set against the industrial, open-air backdrop of Pier 80, the festival takes place on Saturday, September 28, and Sunday, September 29, offering a lineup that’s nothing short of a dance music dream. This year’s headliners are pulling out all the stops, making Portola the place to be for anyone who thrives on pulsing beats, immersive light shows, and cutting-edge soundscapes.

Day One: Rüfüs Du Sol’s Only U.S. Performance of 2024
Saturday’s lineup is stacked with some of the most innovative names in electronic music, but the real buzz is all about Rüfüs Du Sol. The Australian trio, known for their atmospheric, emotionally charged tracks, are treating fans to their only U.S. performance of 2024. Expect an unforgettable set as they take the crowd on a journey through hits like “Innerbloom” and “On My Knees.” Add to that the high-octane energy of French techno maestro Gesaffelstein, who’s known for dark, hypnotic beats, and you’ve got the makings of an epic first day.

Jamie XX, who helped define the sound of modern electronic music, will also be gracing the decks, bringing his signature blend of house, techno, and UK garage. And for those looking for a bit of soul in their EDM, Jessie Ware’s sleek, disco-infused set will be a highlight. Up-and-coming indie-electronic act Neil Frances rounds out a lineup that promises to keep the energy flowing from the moment the gates open at 1 PM.

Day Two: Dance Floor Legends Return
Sunday continues the sonic onslaught with Disclosure headlining a day that promises nostalgia and fresh sounds alike. The Grammy-nominated British duo will drop a mix of new bangers and fan favorites like “Latch” and “White Noise.” Justice, the legendary French duo known for their cross of electronic rock and EDM, will bring their genre-blurring magic to the main stage, while Fisher, the house music titan behind “Losing It,” will keep the crowd moving.

And if that wasn’t enough, M.I.A.—the iconic disruptor of global pop—will grace the stage with her explosive blend of politically charged lyrics and cross-genre beats. For those craving a taste of internet-era irony, Rebecca Black, yes, that Rebecca Black, will be performing, showing off a more polished, mature sound far removed from her “Friday” viral days.

The Setting: Pier 80
Pier 80 is more than just the venue—it’s part of the experience. The sprawling, semi-industrial waterfront location is a mix of warehouse spaces and open air, providing an ideal setting for Portola’s immersive art installations and multi-sensory stages. With the Bay shimmering on one side and San Francisco’s skyline towering on the other, it’s a perfect contrast to the highly charged energy Portola promises.

Just remember to dress for the weather—San Francisco’s famously unpredictable climate can swing from warm sunshine to chilly wind, and layering is a must. The festival’s cashless system means you can skip the wallet; all major credit cards and mobile payment platforms are accepted, and cash can be exchanged for prepaid cards on-site.

Getting There
Getting to Pier 80 is a breeze for those familiar with San Francisco’s public transit. The 15 Bayview Hunters Point Express and the T Muni Metro are both excellent options for festivalgoers coming from downtown. Rideshare services will also have designated drop-off and pick-up points for convenience.

What You Need to Know
Portola is strictly a 21+ event, so don’t forget your valid, government-issued ID (expired IDs won’t cut it). The festival is rain or shine, so be prepared to embrace whatever the weather throws at you. Doors open at 1 PM each day, with the music running well into the night, ensuring you’ll get more than your fill of house, techno, and everything in between.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of electronic music or just looking for a new festival to dive into, Portola 2024 is shaping up to be an unforgettable experience. With a lineup that spans genres and generations, it’s no wonder this festival is quickly becoming a staple of San Francisco’s vibrant music scene.