GRIDLIFE is bringing its signature fusion of grassroots motorsports and music festival culture back to Watkins Glen International for Summer Apex, taking place July 24–26, 2026. Set against the legendary backdrop of the historic New York race circuit, the three-day event combines high-octane racing, full-course drifting, car culture, and two nights of standout electronic music programming for one of the most unique festival experiences of the summer.
Designed to seamlessly transition from adrenaline-fueled daytime action to immersive nighttime performances, Summer Apex once again blurs the line between motorsports and live music. Throughout the weekend, attendees can experience wheel-to-wheel racing, professional drifting demonstrations, and a curated car show before the festival transforms into a concert venue after sunset.
Friday, July 24, sets the tone with a melodic and emotionally driven lineup on the NOS Energy Main Stage. Headlined by BUNT., the evening also features performances from Laszewo and Jai Wolf, delivering an uplifting blend of melodic electronic music and atmospheric soundscapes as the sun sets over the Finger Lakes. Additional artists for Friday’s lineup will be announced in the coming weeks.
Saturday, July 25, shifts the energy into overdrive with a special takeover from The BassMint, the newly launched bass music label curated by Teddy Pain—the electronic music alias of T-Pain. Focused on heavy bass music and high-energy performances, the stage will feature a bass set from Teddy Pain, alongside DJ Diesel (Shaquille O’Neal), San Holo, who will perform an exclusive Wholesome Riddim set, as well as Kompany, Samplifire, Ivory, and Big Florida.
The BassMint showcase follows the excitement generated by T-Pain and DJ Diesel’s memorable back-to-back performance at Electric Forest, bringing that same collaborative energy to one of the most distinctive festival environments in North America.
What continues to set GRIDLIFE Summer Apex apart is the close connection between its music and motorsports programming. Before taking the stage Saturday evening, T-Pain will swap the microphone for a racing helmet as he joins fellow drivers on the legendary Watkins Glen International circuit, participating in the festival’s drifting sessions and further emphasizing the event’s unique crossover between artist and enthusiast.
Whether attendees come for the live music, the motorsports, or the thriving automotive community, Summer Apex offers an experience unlike any traditional festival. By combining nationally recognized artists with grassroots racing culture in one of America’s most iconic racing venues, GRIDLIFE continues to redefine what a modern festival can be.
Single-day passes, General Admission, and VIP packages for GRIDLIFE Summer Apex 2026 are available now, offering fans multiple ways to experience an unforgettable weekend of music, speed, and automotive culture.
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