One of Harrogate’s biggest dance music events is set to make an even louder return this summer as the Love to be…Festival comes back to The Stray on Saturday 6 September.
After a successful debut in 2024, the house music festival is stepping up its game with a larger capacity, enhanced production, extra entertainment and an all-star lineup. Organisers have increased ticket capacity from 4,000 to 6,000 in response to overwhelming demand, giving more music lovers the chance to dance in the heart of Harrogate.
The 2025 edition promises 11 hours of non-stop music across two stages and a VIP area. The main stage has been redesigned to offer an indoor-outdoor experience, while the Music Factory Classics Big Top pays tribute to Love to be…’s Sheffield roots. A new and improved VIP zone will include a premium bar, private toilets, a pamper station and other surprise treats on the day.
Headlining the main stage will be Armand Van Helden, the New York house music legend, joined by The Shapeshifters, Ultra Naté (performing live), and a strong supporting cast including Trimtone, Carly Wilford, Tom Wainwright, Stuart Pilling, Keex, and Sinclair.
The Music Factory Classics Big Top will be led by house pioneer Marshall Jefferson, known for his classic track Move Your Body. He’ll be joined by K-Klass, Gok Wan, and Juliet Roberts, who will perform her hits Needin’ You and Caught in the Middle.
In the VIP area, expect an electric atmosphere from LGBTQ+ favourites funkyLove and local party crew Funk My Life. The stage will feature performances from Soraya Vivian, as well as DJs Nick Ellerbeck, and Love to be… co-founders Tony Walker and Marc Dennis.
Marc Dennis, director and co-founder of Love to be…, said:
“We are extremely excited to be back in Harrogate this year with another unforgettable Love to be…Festival. We’ve taken everything people loved about last year and dialled it up to deliver an even bigger, better experience.
At the heart of Love to be… is our unstoppable passion for house music and uniting generations on the dancefloor. This festival is all about capturing the magic of our early days and turning up the volume for both a fresh crowd and our original Love to be… family.”
Festival-goers can also enjoy a food village, fairground rides, fire breathers, stilt walkers, and impressive sound and light production throughout the site.
This year’s event will support Just B, a North Yorkshire-based bereavement and emotional wellbeing charity. Proceeds from a paying guest list and donations on the day will help fund its vital work.
Tickets start from £55.25 plus booking fee, available via Skiddle. The festival runs from 12pm to 11pm.
For the full line-up and more information, visit lovetobeevents.co.uk.
