The short answer: the best EDM party 2019 is one that pairs high‑energy beats with a well‑curated craft‑beer bar, thoughtful drink stations and a seamless flow that lets the music and the buzz work together.
That might sound like a punchline, but it’s the reality for anyone who’s ever tried to host a rave‑style gathering and ended up with wilted guests and empty kegs. In 2019 the EDM scene isn’t just about laser lights and drop‑after‑drop bass; it’s also about the social ritual of drinking, and craft beer is the perfect bridge between the two. By treating your party like a curated tasting experience, you give your crowd a reason to stay, mingle, and keep the energy high from the first beat to the last encore.
What exactly is an EDM party 2019?
EDM (Electronic Dance Music) parties have evolved from underground warehouse raves to mainstream festivals and private house events. The 2019 iteration is distinguished by three trends: ultra‑high‑definition visual production, genre‑blending line‑ups (think future bass meets techno), and an elevated focus on beverage culture. While the core remains “dance until you drop,” the surrounding ecosystem – from Instagram‑ready drink stations to sustainable décor – now defines the experience.
For a host, this means thinking beyond the DJ booth. You need a layout that encourages movement, a sound system that can handle sub‑bass without rattling the walls, and, crucially, a drink program that complements the basslines rather than competes with them. Craft beer, with its diverse flavor profiles and lower ABV compared to spirits, is ideal for keeping the vibe lively without overwhelming the senses.
How to design the perfect drink menu for an EDM party 2019
Start with a theme that mirrors the music. If your setlist leans heavy on tropical house, consider bright, citrus‑forward ales and session IPAs. If you’re booking a harder techno roster, darker stouts and barrel‑aged brews provide a grounding counterpoint. The key is variety without chaos – aim for three to four beer styles, each presented in a clear, self‑serve station.
Don’t forget non‑beer options. A signature cocktail can act as a crowd‑pleaser and a branding tool. For inspiration on creating a memorable party staple, check out our guide on punch drinks. A citrus‑spiked rye punch or a light honey‑melon shandy can keep the hydration level up while still delivering a buzz.
Choosing the right venue and layout
The venue sets the acoustic baseline. A space with high ceilings and solid walls will contain the low frequencies better than a cramped loft. If you’re using a warehouse, add acoustic panels to prevent the sound from turning muddy.
Layout matters for flow. Position the DJ booth opposite the main bar so guests naturally circulate. Create a “chill zone” with low‑light seating away from the speakers; this is where people will sip their brews, chat, and recharge before diving back into the crowd. Keep the bar area well‑lit and clearly marked – a simple rope barrier and signage do the trick.
Equipment checklist: from speakers to taps
Sound: Invest in a 2‑way PA system with at least 1,000 W RMS per side, plus a dedicated subwoofer that can handle 150 Hz – 30 Hz without distortion. Pair it with a DJ controller that supports multiple inputs so you can blend live mash‑ups.
Beer service: A kegerator with a CO₂ regulator is essential for consistent pours. Use a clear tap glass so guests can see the color and carbonation. If you’re offering several styles, a multi‑tap tower with separate regulators avoids cross‑contamination of flavors.
Lighting: LED strips, moving heads, and a few strobe lights create the classic EDM vibe. Sync the lighting to the beat using a DMX controller – this adds a visual rhythm that keeps the dance floor in sync with the music.
What most articles get wrong about EDM parties 2019
Many how‑to pieces treat EDM parties as a one‑size‑fits‑all checklist: “Hire a DJ, get some lasers, stock cheap beer.” This oversimplifies two critical aspects. First, the beverage program is often reduced to generic lagers or overpriced vodka mixers, ignoring the craft‑beer renaissance that can actually elevate the experience. Second, the crowd‑flow dynamics are ignored; without strategic placement of bars and chill zones, even the best DJ will see people leaving the floor early.
Another common mistake is focusing solely on visual spectacle while neglecting acoustic clarity. Over‑loading a space with lasers, fog, and strobe lights can drown out the nuanced layers of a well‑produced set, leaving the audience with a visual overload but a muddy sound.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
1. Over‑pouring high‑ABV drinks. When the music is intense, guests often underestimate how much alcohol they’re consuming. Keep the beer selection mostly session‑style (4‑5% ABV) and limit the number of hard‑liquor shots.
2. Ignoring temperature control. Warm beer is a quick way to kill the vibe. Use a dedicated refrigeration unit for your kegs and keep the bar area at 38‑40 °F.
3. Poor sound placement. Placing the subwoofer directly against a wall creates booming resonance that can damage hearing and make conversation impossible. Angle it slightly away and use isolation pads.
4. Skipping a permit. In 2019 many cities tightened regulations on noise and alcohol licensing for private events. Check local ordinances well in advance to avoid a shutdown.
Verdict: the winning formula for an EDM party 2019
If you want a party that people will talk about long after the final bass drop, focus on three pillars: sound, sip, and space. Prioritise a clean, bass‑friendly sound system, curate a craft‑beer menu that matches the musical mood, and design a layout that encourages movement while offering moments to rest and hydrate. This approach beats the generic “laser‑and‑cheap‑beer” template and delivers a cohesive, memorable night.
Bottom line – the ultimate EDM party 2019 isn’t about throwing every flashy gadget at the venue; it’s about orchestrating the sensory experience so the music, the drinks, and the environment amplify each other. Follow the steps above, and you’ll host a rave that feels as polished as a freshly poured IPA.
