Electronic music fans are once again turning their attention to Southern California this fall as Dreamstate SoCal, one of the nation’s most prominent all-trance music festivals, prepares to return to the Queen Mary waterfront. The two-day event has become a staple of the electronic dance music (EDM) scene, drawing fans from across the country and beyond to celebrate the immersive sounds and visuals that define the trance genre.
Dreamstate, produced by Insomniac Events, has grown significantly since its debut, carving out a dedicated niche within the wider EDM festival circuit. Unlike multi-genre festivals, Dreamstate is uniquely focused on trance music, providing a platform for both legendary names and new talent within the genre. From progressive and uplifting trance to psytrance and tech-trance, the festival offers a full spectrum of sounds for the genre’s loyal followers.
Set against the scenic backdrop of the Queen Mary in Long Beach, the venue offers a distinct coastal atmosphere that enhances the sensory experience. Massive LED displays, high-definition projections, and synchronized light shows are designed to envelop attendees in a multisensory environment that mirrors the dreamy, euphoric quality of the music. The historic site, once a luxury ocean liner and now a major tourist attraction, adds a unique charm to the festival’s ambiance, blending history with cutting-edge performance art.
Festival organizers expect attendance to meet or exceed prior years, especially as interest in trance music continues to grow in the United States. Once considered a more niche genre within the EDM landscape, trance is now experiencing a notable resurgence, bolstered by a new generation of listeners and a reinvigorated presence in clubs and streaming platforms. Dreamstate SoCal plays a central role in this revival, offering fans a dedicated space to connect with the genre on a large scale.
City officials and local businesses are preparing for a busy weekend. Hospitality leaders in the Long Beach area anticipate increased hotel bookings, restaurant traffic, and ride-share demand. Previous editions of Dreamstate have contributed significant economic activity to the region, and 2025 is expected to continue that trend. For Long Beach, hosting such events is also a chance to highlight its diverse food scene, waterfront attractions, and accessibility to major transit hubs in Southern California.
Attendees are encouraged to plan ahead to make the most of the weekend. Traffic around the venue can become congested, particularly in the evening, so early arrival and use of designated shuttle services are strongly recommended. Because the Queen Mary is situated directly along the coast, temperatures often dip after sunset. Layered clothing is suggested, especially for those planning to stay into the late-night sets. Festival organizers have also advised purchasing tickets through official platforms only, as past events have seen a rise in counterfeit ticket scams, particularly from overseas resellers.
With its loyal fanbase, world-class production, and an international roster of DJs, Dreamstate SoCal 2025 promises to be one of the most immersive trance experiences in the United States. The festival continues to serve not just as a gathering of music lovers, but as a reflection of the evolving electronic music culture that increasingly values genre-specific experiences. As November approaches, anticipation builds for what is expected to be one of the most memorable weekends on the EDM calendar.
