Big Gigantic and Saxsquatch Lead September Return

Summer's Last Dance has unveiled its Phase 1 lineup for 2026, led by Grammy-lauded live electronic duo Big Gigantic, viral saxophone sensation Saxsquatch, bass house producer Henry Fong, and funk-infused house duo The Sponges. The one-day festival returns to Bridgeview, Illinois, on September 19, offering what founder Bobby De Maria describes as a more intimate, community-driven alternative to large-scale festivals.

Philanthropic Mission Continues with Miracle Michael Fund

The festival maintains its partnership with the Miracle Michael Fund, established in honor of Michael John Shultz to support families affected by Osteogenesis Imperfecta, a rare connective tissue disorder commonly known as brittle bone disease. A portion of every ticket and sponsorship directly supports family assistance and ongoing research. De Maria's company Afterlife Entertainment has helped raise more than $100,000 for organizations including Ronald McDonald House Charities, Hope For The Day, and the Miracle Michael Fund.

"Summer's Last Dance is about connection as much as it is music. From the beginning, we wanted to create an experience that brings people together across different scenes and backgrounds while also supporting something bigger than ourselves," De Maria said.

Cross-Genre Programming Reflects Chicago's Music Culture

Now in its third year, Summer's Last Dance blends electronic, hip-hop, funk, house, and live performance into a single-day celebration. Past editions have featured artists ranging from Cheat Codes and KSHMR to Chicago house pioneer Marshall Jefferson, alongside Destructo, The Knocks, and Slushii. De Maria, who works alongside his father Jim De Maria—a longtime Chicago sports and nonprofit executive—has built the festival around a philosophy that extends beyond the music itself.

"I grew up watching my dad use sports and entertainment as a way to bring people together and support people who needed it most," De Maria said. "That mindset became a huge part of what we built with Afterlife. The music matters, but so does what you do with the platform."

The festival spans three stages, 20+ artists, and 12 hours of music on September 19 in Bridgeview.