In just its fourth year, Proper NYE is rapidly cementing its status as a premier West Coast music festival. For two days, Petco Park—graciously hosted by the city of San Diego and the Padres—transformed into a vibrant hub for thousands of fans eager to experience a meticulously curated lineup of dance music’s finest.
The festival is expertly programmed by the FNGRS CRSSD crew, who prioritize a cohesive flow over a disjointed series of performances. Much like an artist crafting an album, the event is designed to build energy throughout the day, culminating in a powerful crescendo. This year, that vision was executed with precision.
Reflecting on the previous year, it is clear that the organizers took critical feedback to heart. While the 2024-2025 edition featured a stellar lineup, it was hampered by logistical hurdles. This year, however, the improvements were palpable. By reducing capacity, the festival eliminated the dangerous bottlenecks and overcrowding that plagued the previous iteration. Accessing the venue and navigating between stages was seamless, allowing attendees to focus entirely on the music.
The festival’s commitment to growth was evident, particularly in its willingness to expand its musical palette. While Proper has historically been a house-forward event, the inclusion of legendary drum and bass icons Skrillex and Chase & Status provided a refreshing palate cleanser. The energy was electric, proving that the audience is eager for diverse sounds within the festival’s signature atmosphere.
Even the rare San Diego rain could not dampen the spirits of the crowd. Sets from Tinlicker and It’s Murph set a sophisticated tone, while Gorgon City delivered a standout performance at the Lot stage, masterfully controlling the energy for 90 minutes despite being tucked away in a tent.
The festival reached its peak with a legendary b2b set from Skrillex and Four Tet. The set was a masterclass in unpredictability, blending nostalgic hits like “Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites” with modern sensibilities. The night concluded with a rare DJ set from French powerhouse Justice, who turned the stadium into an hour-long dance party, complete with an unexpected and crowd-pleasing drop of ABBA’s “Voulez-Vous.”
If this is the standard for the year ahead, 2026 is off to an incredible start. Proper NYE has proven that it is not just a festival, but a community-focused event that learns, adapts, and thrives.