Breakaway Carolina 2025: A Weekend to Remember
Breakaway Carolina lit up Concord like never before on September 26–27, transforming the zMAX Dragway at Charlotte Motor Speedway into a two-night haven of bass drops, neon lights, and electric energy. With a stellar lineup, killer vibes, and welcoming crowd energy, this year’s fest proved why Breakaway is fast becoming the must-do event in the Carolina music scene. If that wasn’t enough, it’s also official that Charlotte’s festival was THE biggest festival in Breakaway brand history. So if you were a part of the fun this year, pat yourselves on the backs for contributing to the milestone. And if you weren’t in attendance, this should be motivation for you to ensure those 2026 tickets are purchased early!
And here is a recap video to further entice you.
Lineup Highlights (Yes, we saw you, John, Max, Eli, Lavern)
From start to finish, the roster delivered. Headliner John Summit commanded the main stage with a relentless set that had the crowd in sync the whole way through. Meanwhile, Eli Brown brought the techno heat with soaring energy and peak-time drops that had dance floors erupting. Max Styler represented the future, blending inventive transitions and genre-bending sounds that kept ears perked. And shoutout to Lavern, whose set added texture and moments of surprise among the heavier hitters.
But it wasn’t just about the headliners. The undercard was stacked too, featuring names like Ares Carter, Disco Lines, D.O.D., Bob Moses (DJ set), Me N Ü, Peekaboo, and more. Local Charlotte favorites 2LØT, Bayote, Johnny!, and others held their own, weaving in hometown pride amidst the national talent.
Photo Credit: Kursza
That “Family” Feel in Full Effect
One of the sweetest things about Breakaway is how it balances scale with intimacy. Despite thousands showing up, there was still space to bump into your neighbor, cheer on new friends, or dance in impromptu circles near the bar. The organizers nailed accessibility, provided activations and rest zones, and emphasized inclusivity in every corner. Rain or shine, the community stayed strong.
Eats, Treats & Merch Galore
Your taste buds weren’t left behind — food trucks and vendor stalls offered everything from savory bites to refreshing drinks. With multiple bars (beer & cocktails for 21+, plus non-alcoholic options) and branded activations like CELSIUS and White Claw Surge, hydration and flavor were never far.
Merch and festival flair were everywhere, too — whether you wanted glow gear, exclusive Breakaway hoodies, or quirky finds from Loose Lucy’s and Resistol Hats, there was plenty to make memories tangible.
Why You Should Lock In 2026 with Your Crew
If 2025 was this good, imagine what the next year will bring. Bigger surprises, tighter production, and even more reason to bring the whole crew. Don’t wait until the lineup leaks — grab your people now, set reminders, follow Breakaway’s socials, and be ready to pounce when ticket drops hit.
2026’s edition has factors stacked in your favor:
You already know it delivers.
Demand just keeps rising.
You want better spots, earlier access, and group momentum behind you.
Mark your calendars, stay alert for announcements, and be ready to buy before passes sell out. Your squad will thank you when you're front row for the next John Summit-level drop — because if Breakaway 2025 taught us anything, it's that this festival doesn’t mess around.
See you next year on the dance floor, Charlotte!
Photo Credit: Kursza