As promised, some thoughts about DA at Proper NYE/NYD year 3. Proper curated what was arguably 2024's most stacked lineup, which would expectedly lead to some brutal conflicts. Scheduling decisions were ultimately made and every set — from ringing in 2025 with Eric Prydz to closing NYD with Dom Dolla — was one that we’ll look back on for the rest of the year. Not to mention that San Diego came through with some of SoCal’s most ideal winter weather. For its third edition, Proper re-added Gallagher Square (after it was closed in 2023 due to renovations) to its map. Our best guess would be that Proper’s overall capacity limit was raised as a result, leading to more attendees than the past two years. And Proper was faced with a few growing pains during its most expansive footprint to date. Despite a loaded schedule spread across four stages, Proper was still unable to draw enough people away from the Field (and the Lot at times) leading to the field capacity being capped for a majority of both days. Aside from a refined scheduling approach or even expanding the site to improve crowd flow, a specific Field stage solution could be for Proper to offer tiered ticketing, with a more expensive tier granting field access (just like any other stadium concert) and a cheaper seats-only option. Having watched Dom Dolla from the latter, the sound was still crisp, you still had a prime view of the stage, and there was more than enough room to dance. And while we’re aware these do not encompass everything, a few other practical improvements are more festival entry/exit points, more security/concession staffing, and more bathrooms. It felt as if Proper relied too heavily on Petco’s infrastructure and should instead increase amenities in certain areas. But despite any venue, crowd, or logistical concerns — most of which seem to be reasonable fixes — Proper’s lineup, stage production, and San Diego’s weather all came together for an incredible finale to 2024 and start to 2025. Petco Park should undoubtedly remain Proper’s home, and we have confidence that Proper will refine itself as it moves forward. A massive thank you to Proper, the artists and the entire @FNGRS CRSSD team for year 3. See you in March for @CRSSD Festival 🌴
#propernye #nye #housemusic #techno #melodictechno #housemusiclovers #sandiego #petcopark