In May 2025, Vancouverites partied hard at one of the city’s most anticipated festivals, Open Radius—a massive open-air party and the thirteenth installment of the Foundation series. The two-day event took place on May 17 and 18 at the spacious PNE Centre Grounds in East Vancouver. The format was simple and convenient: two stages, music from 4 PM to 10 PM, and a 19+ age restriction. More at vancouveriski.
The lineup featured names that electronic music fans know well, including John Summit, Sara Landry, the duo Gorgon City, and Mall Grab. The event was brought to life by the team at Blueprint, who created a space where thousands could come together and immerse themselves in the music.
What’s Behind the Foundation Brand?
The Foundation Series story is a recent one, beginning in 2023. It was a project from the Blueprint team, a name synonymous with shaping Western Canada’s nightlife scene. While they organize everything from club nights to major concerts, Foundation became a vital boost for the electronic scene after the challenging pandemic years. The idea is simple: create regular events that support the local community and foster a sense of unity among fans. And in that, Foundation has succeeded brilliantly.
Even within the series, Open Radius stands out. This is more than a club night; it’s a true open-air festival with two large stages on the beautiful PNE Centre Grounds, all wrapped in a city-friendly format. The event starts in the afternoon and ends at 10 PM, allowing guests to easily travel by SkyTrain or bus and head home—or to an official afterparty—without a rush. This accessibility means more people can experience Open Radius compared to traditional late-night raves.
Another key element is the music. While many promoters in Western Canada feature a mix of electronic genres, Foundation does things differently, focusing exclusively on house and its subgenres—from melodic and vocal house to tech-house and harder techno. This gives listeners a clear idea of the vibe to expect.
The Music and Vibe of 2025
The Open Radius 2025 lineup was expertly curated. Headliners John Summit and Sara Landry showcased two very different sides of house music. John ignited the dance floor with high-energy tracks, creating a driving energy that got everyone moving. In contrast, Sara immersed the crowd in deep tech-house and underground cuts with unexpected rhythmic twists, adding a layer of edge and intrigue. Together, they presented the full spectrum of house music—melody, energy, and rich rhythms—ensuring every guest experienced the festival’s atmosphere to the fullest.
The other performers brought their own fire. Gorgon City instantly captured the crowd with their powerful vocal tracks, while Nic Fanciulli built a strong connection through techno and emotionally charged anthems—you had to see the joyful reaction when he dropped “Hold On,” a song released just one day before his set. The lineup also included Mau P, Azzecca, X CLUB, and others who weren’t afraid to experiment, taking the audience on a deep dive into underground music. The stage had a special, intimate vibe, like an unforgettable party with friends outdoors. The crowd was singing along, dancing, and waving their hands, and the energy held strong until the very last track, as if no one even thought about getting tired.
Alongside the big stars, local DJs were also given the spotlight. They had the chance to take over the big stage and showcase their skills, giving Vancouverites an opportunity to not only hear their favourite artists but also discover new talent.
On-Site Info: Safety and Tips
As a reminder, Open Radius was held at the PNE Centre Grounds in East Vancouver. The location is convenient for locals and spacious enough to host two open-air stages. With the North Shore Mountains visible in the background, the venue is both scenic and easily accessible by public transit.
Entry was restricted to those 19 and over, and organizers carefully checked IDs. Food and drink vendors were available on-site, and with in-and-out privileges, attendees could leave and return as needed.
Most tickets were sold through Ticketleader, with several price tiers available. Organizers advised everyone to avoid buying from resellers to prevent issues with counterfeit tickets, scams, or inflated prices.
After the main event, the party continued at official afterparties, including one at the Fortune Sound Club. It was the perfect opportunity to hear a few more favourite tracks, connect with other music lovers, and cap off the night perfectly.
For those planning to attend Open Radius or similar events, a few tips are key: check your transit options in advance (SkyTrain, buses, ride-sharing), dress for the weather, remember to stay hydrated and take breaks, and protect your hearing. It’s also a good idea to set up a meeting spot with friends in case you get separated in the crowd.