Tipper's Epic Goodbye: Unforgettable Sunrise Set at The Gorge Festival

Gorge Amphitheatre, George, WA, USA - The recently concluded Tipper & Friends festival at The Gorge has left an indelible mark on the electronic music scene, showcasing the unique sounds of Tipper himself and a carefully curated roster of artists. This monumental event, which took place from July 4 to July 6, 2025, represented Tipper’s first time headlining a festival of this scale on the West Coast. Known for his deep ambient sets, Tipper delivered an unforgettable experience for fans old and new alike, receiving an exemption from the venue’s noise ordinance that allowed him to perform a special ambient sunrise set on Sunday morning.

Tipper’s sunrise set, his first since 2021, was a fitting farewell before his anticipated retirement from live performances in September 2023. Included in the serene setlist were nuances of beloved tracks like „Ever Decreasing Circles,“ „Virga,“ „Algae Bloom in Seven,“ and „Ambergris.“ Walking through The Gorge during this moment felt almost magical, as the crowds gathered, exhilarated by the unique blend of sights and sounds curated just for them.

Festival Highlights

The festival characterized itself with not only captivating music but also a visual feast, thanks to performances from visual artists like Android Jones and Glass Crane. Friday night served up a delectable mix from Herbalistek and Schmoop, with Schmoop bringing the atmosphere to life alongside visuals from Fractaled Visions. Meanwhile, Tipper’s own set blended both modern classics and unreleased gems, delighting fans with every beat.

Saturday night continued the vibe with Tipper’s special 90-minute Twilight Set, a tapestry of downtempo melodies interspersed with unreleased tracks that left attendees buzzing. Performers like Shpongle took the stage later in the evening, delivering improvised versions of iconic tracks, thus expanding the listeners‘ musical horizons. And let’s not forget the „Psychedelic Movie Night“ that wrapped up the festivities, featuring a cult classic alongside a selection of surrealist shorts that kept the eclectic atmosphere alive.

The festival buzzed with energy, making it a memorable experience for all who attended. Fans appreciated the efforts of the organizers who managed to blend music and art seamlessly, enhancing the overall ambiance. With promises of a vibrant community and the sounds of electronic music resonating through the air, the weekend truly felt like a celebration.

Festival Logistics

For those planning to attend the next edition, it’s essential to note that initial access began as early as Friday at 7 PM, with the main stage hill open for Tipper’s ambitious Sunday set from 1-4:30 AM. Attendees were also keen on ensuring they understood the re-entry timings, which varied throughout the weekend. For example, Friday saw re-entry from 12:30 PM to 2 AM, whereas Saturday went until 5:15 AM, allowing fans ample flexibility to enjoy every moment.

Tipper’s retirement tour stop was a unique stepping stone, bringing together a stellar lineup that also included names like OTT, LTJ Bukem, and many more. As the days unfolded, attendees enjoyed enchanting afternoon music powered by Funktion-One on the Meadow, ensuring that even in their down-time, the musical experience continued.

It’s also worth noting that camping options were available for the festival-goers, including affordable tent camping, which provided optimum access to the venue. The provision of free showers and amenities at various camping sites made the event even more appealing to fans looking for a full weekend immersed in music and community.

All in all, the festival not only honored Tipper’s rich career but also set the groundwork for future electronic gatherings at The Gorge. As fans now look toward the next installment, there’s a collective hope that the magic of Tipper and Friends can be relived once more.

For more details about Tipper’s illustrious career and future events, you can visit JamBase, Emerald City EDM, and Dance Music NW.