5 Defunct Atlanta Music Festivals: A Look Back at the City’s Lost EDM Events

Atlanta, the city renowned for its musical innovation and cultural vibrancy, has seen its share of celebrated festivals over the years. Yet, among its historic lineup, some of those have come and gone, leaving a lasting impression before disappearing from the scene. Here’s a look at five defunct Atlanta music festivals, examining their rise and fall and revealing the stories behind their brief but memorable impact on the city’s festival landscape.
 
1. Tomorrowworld  

Tomorrowworld was a spinoff of the famed Tomorrowland festival in Belgium which first graced the Atlanta area in 2013. The festival drew enormous crowds and featured international EDM giants such as David Guetta, Armin van Buuren, and Tiësto. However, despite its initial success, Tomorrowworld faced a dramatic downfall. In 2015, the festival was canceled on its final day due to severe weather conditions. Heavy rainfall led to flooding and unsafe conditions, forcing organizers to call off the event. Additionally, the logistical and financial strains of managing such a large-scale event in an area prone to unpredictable weather contributed to the festival’s eventual discontinuation.  

2. Imagine Music Festival  

Launched in 2011, Imagine Music Festival quickly became a staple in Atlanta’s EDM scene, attracting artists like Skrillex, Illenium, and Kaskade. Despite its growing popularity, Imagine faced numerous challenges. In 2020, the festival was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a setback faced by many events worldwide. Moreover, recurring issues with venue permits and local regulations added to its difficulties. The city’s stringent regulations for large-scale events, coupled with zoning and permit complexities, created a turbulent environment for festival organizers. Despite these setbacks, Imagine Music Festival plans to return in 2025, promising a renewed effort to overcome past obstacles. 
 
3. Shaky Beats  

Shaky Beats, known for its eclectic mix of EDM and other genres, debuted in 2016. The festival featured a variety of artists including Excision, Martin Garrix, and Kygo. While Shaky Beats managed to hold several successful editions, it faced challenges with permit issues and venue changes. In 2021, the festival was called off, partly due to logistical complications and a lack of clear guidelines regarding COVID-19 restrictions. The ongoing regulatory hurdles and shifting venue requirements played a significant role in its struggles.  

4. Counterpoint  

Counterpoint emerged in 2012 with a lineup boasting big names like Steve Angello, Avicii, and Alesso. Despite its promising start, the festival struggled with weather-related cancellations and operational issues. In 2013, the event was canceled due to severe storms and flooding, similar to the challenges faced by Tomorrowworld. Persistent issues with local authorities and logistical planning contributed to the festival’s eventual demise.  
 
5. Music Midtown  

Though not exclusively an EDM festival, ‘Music Midtown’ did feature EDM acts such as Deadmau5, Louis The Child, and Flume. Initially a multi-genre event, Music Midtown’s EDM segment faced challenges related to city permits and local regulations. The festival’s cancellation in 2022 was attributed to a combination of factors, including shifting city regulations on large public gatherings and logistical concerns. 
 
Atlanta’s history with EDM festivals represents a series of challenges that have made it difficult for such events to thrive on the US east coast. From weather-related cancellations to regulatory hurdles, the city’s unique conditions present significant obstacles. By understanding these challenges, organizers can better navigate the complexities of hosting successful EDM festivals in Atlanta or consider other cities with more favorable conditions for such events. As the city continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how future festivals will adapt and overcome these persistent issues.