GRIDLIFE is bringing its signature blend of grassroots motorsports and music festival culture back to upstate New York for Summer Apex, July 24-26, 2026. Taking over the historic Watkins Glen International, the massive weekend features two nights of music headlined by BUNT., DJ DIESEL (aka Shaq), and TEDDY PAIN (aka T-Pain), set against a daytime backdrop of high-speed racing, full-course drifting, and a curated car show.
The 2026 Summer Apex music programming bridges the gap between the track and the stage, bringing together a heavy-hitting roster of electronic and bass music for the weekend.
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It’s amazing how far we’ve come. We’re taking over Watkins Glen with two massive nights of music, but we’re still doing it our way. Having BUNT. and Jai Wolf on the lineup is going to bring a perfect vibe after a long day of racing. But handing the keys to Teddy Pain to bring his new Bassmint label out is going to be one for the books. He isn’t just taking over the stage, he’s literally getting out on track and drifting with us during the day. That’s what happens when you build something for this community, the artists are just as die-hard about the car culture as the fans – Chris Stewart, Co-Founder of GRIDLIFE.
A major highlight of the festival will be a stage takeover by Bassmint, Teddy Pain’s newly launched bass label. Built around heavy, high-energy bass music, the lineup features a Bass Set from TEDDY PAIN himself, alongside DJ DIESEL (Shaq), SAN HOLO (playing an exclusive Wholesome Riddim set), KOMPANY, SAMPLIFIRE, IVORY, and BIG FLORIDA.
Balancing out the heavy bass, the weekend will also feature deep, emotion-driven sets from BUNT., LASZEWO, and JAI WOLF taking over the NOS Energy main stage as the sun drops over the Finger Lakes. Additional support acts for the weekend will be announced soon.
What sets Summer Apex apart from traditional music festivals is the seamless crossover between the artists and the action. Before hitting the stage for the Bassmint takeover, Teddy Pain will actually be suiting up and drifting the iconic Watkins Glen International circuit alongside the rest of the festival’s drivers.
If you are looking for a place to stay for GridLife Festival 2026 then check out our interactive accommodation map below. Just add in the dates you want to stay and the venue and you will be able to see what’s available nearby.
If you also need to find a flight to get you there, try our flight search feature below! Simply add in your home and destination city, select the dates you want to travel and search away!
