Miami’s We Belong Here to Bring New Music Festival Experience to Central Park Ice Skating Rink

by Michael Ryan · Published May 7, 2024

We Belong Here has been uniting house music lovers on Miami's beautiful Virginia Key Beach for the past three years, joining forces with renowned artists like Lane 8, Bob Moses, Giolì & Assia and many more for their sun-kissed, breezy events.

Now, the beloved event organizer is hosting their first-ever festival experience New York City event at Central Park's Wollman Rink from October 4th to 6th. With its lush greenery and panoramic city skyline views, the famed ice skating rink has roots dating back to the 1950s and remains integral to the vibrant Central Park locale.

We Belong Here's' selection of this special location aligns with its boutique approach, choosing unique and exclusive spots to host their unforgettable events.

"We are creating a refined festival experience in New York that is truly for all New Yorkers—with the fan at the forefront of every decision," said Justin Dauman, co-founder of We Belong Here. "We’ve worked tirelessly over the past two years of planning to strike a balance between the most well-received aspects of our Miami festival and an artistic ambiance that is true to the City's cultural diversity."

"As born and raised New Yorkers, Justin and I have dreamed of hosting an event like this one," added co-founder Charles Hochfelder. "Our team is ready to produce an unforgettable experience that embodies the energy and spirit of New York City through music, nature, history, dance, and culture. We’re grateful for the rare opportunity given to us by the New York City Parks Department and Wollman Rink, and we will use this platform to create a profound positive impact in the NYC community."

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A portion of the events proceeds will finance paid-in-full scholarships for economically underprivileged city residents to attend Scratch Academy, according to a press release. Founded by Jam Master Jay, the late DJ of the legendary hip-hop group Run-DMC, the school now helps aspiring musicians learn key skills to kick off their careers in music.

"Community festivals like these bring people together, fostering belonging, cultural exchange and community ties. It creates new opportunities and enriches the lives of our diverse city for generations to come," said NYC Parks Manhattan Borough Commissioner Tricia Shimamura. "This festival will not only provide an unforgettable experience for New Yorkers in an inclusive environment but also help underprivileged city residents attend Scratch Academy, where they can learn performance and business skills for a music career!"

The team at We Belong Here has not yet announced a lineup for the upcoming festival experience, but if past is prologue, ticket-holders can expect a big one considering they've booked everyone from Kaskade to Tchami to James Hype. You can register for pre-sale access here.

For more on the organizers, read our recap of last year's dazzling We Belong Here Festival in Miami here.