Day Trip Festival is the rare outdoor dance music event that feels genuinely underground despite its size — tastemaker lineups, thoughtful programming, and a Long Beach waterfront setting that makes it one of the most distinct festival experiences in California. June 27–28, 2026. Here's your complete guide.
At a Glance
What Is Day Trip?
Day Trip started as a series of day parties and has grown into one of the most respected festival brands in California dance music. The name is accurate — it's designed as a daytime experience first, with programming that works with natural light and open-air settings. But the lineups run into the evening, and the energy at Day Trip as the sun sets is one of the best festival moments in the region.
Day Trip's curatorial identity is house and techno with a melodic, accessible edge. It draws from the deeper end of the spectrum without being alienating — an event where a first-timer can comfortably enjoy the music alongside lifers who've been following the artists for years.
The Lineup
Day Trip typically books 15–25 artists across two days, with a focus on international headliners from the house and techno circuit alongside a strong supporting cast of LA and OC local talent. The programming is deliberately paced — earlier sets are deeper and more textured, with energy building toward the headline slots as the afternoon progresses into evening.
Local artists from the OC and LA underground have historically gotten strong billing at Day Trip — it's one of the few larger festivals that genuinely cultivates regional talent alongside international acts. Check the KEEPITIL events page as lineup announcements drop for our picks.
The Waterfront Setting
The Long Beach waterfront location is what elevates Day Trip from good to genuinely memorable. Views of the harbor, ocean breeze that moderates the June heat, and the particular golden-hour light that LA gets in late June — the combination creates a visual context that most festivals can't manufacture. Come for the music, stay for the sunsets.
June in Long Beach is mild compared to inland SoCal — temperatures typically run 70–78°F during the day. A light jacket for the evening is enough. No extreme heat or cold. This is close to ideal festival weather.
Getting There from OC
Long Beach is extremely accessible from Orange County. The 405 or the 605 to the 710 are the primary routes. From central OC (Irvine, Costa Mesa, Anaheim), the drive is typically 30–45 minutes without traffic. On festival weekend, add 20–30 minutes for congestion near the venue.
The Metro A Line (formerly Blue Line) connects downtown Long Beach to downtown LA, and the Pacific Surfliner stops at the Long Beach station. Rideshare is practical given the venue's urban location — Lyft and Uber surge rates in Long Beach are typically more moderate than in LA proper.
What to Wear
Day Trip has a fashion-forward crowd but the vibe is decidedly anti-costume. Think elevated streetwear — good sneakers, layerable pieces, sunglasses that you're not afraid to lose. The crowd leans toward the kind of effortless-looking outfit that took you 45 minutes. Comfortable shoes for dancing on outdoor terrain are essential. The waterfront location means wind — scarves and hair ties are practical.
GET DAY TRIP TICKETS
Day Trip Festival 2026 — June 27–28 at the Long Beach Waterfront. Tickets and lineup at KEEPITIL's events page.