E-Man Bates
June 8, 2026
Horace E. Dodge Fountain at Hart Plaza during Movement 26’
This year, I had the privilege of photo-documenting the 20th anniversary of Movement, produced by Paxahau. The festival takes place Memorial weekend at Detroit’s Hart Plaza and has gone through many significant changes in the decades it’s been around. One of the most distinctive things about Movement Music Festival is the coordination of 6 different stages that give festival-goers the chance to choose their own adventure in electronic music.
The Detroit Stage features up-and-coming and established DJs from Detroit. Being an internationally known festival, this stage is one where people from outside the city can get a glimpse into the future of the sounds of the city, as well as possibly see a familiar face.
Lady Witch performing on the Detroit Stage for Movement 26’
Movement attendees at Detroit Stage night 1
Movement attendees at Detroit Stage night 2
The Stargate Stage gives you the block party energy, very upbeat, high energy, high vibrations. The closest stage to the main entrance, so this one typically catches the attention of festival goers upon entry.
The Martinez Brothers and Eddie Fowlkes performing on the Stargate Stage at Movement 26’
Dames Brown performing on the Stargate Stage at Movement 26’
Stacy Pullen performing on the Stargate Stage at Movement 26’
The Underground Stage brings that true gritty after-hours warehouse energy. If you’re looking for grungy vibes and good times, this is the perfect stage for you.
Mark Flash performing on the Underground Stage for Movement 26’
Mark Flash performing on the Underground Stage for Movement 26’
The Pyramid Stage is equipped with high-quality visuals, providing the ultimate backdrop while overlooking the Detroit River.
The Saunderson Brothers performing on the Pyramid Stage at Movement 26’
Movement 26’ attendees at the Pyramid Stage
My personal favorite, The Waterfront Stage, is a mix of Hip-Hop, Funk, and, of course, Electronic music. Opposite the Pyramid stage, this also overlooks the Detroit River but gives the festival goer an entirely different vibe with the style of music.
Miss Bashful performing on the Waterfront Stage for Movement 26’
Barry Can’t Swim performing on the Waterfront Stage for Movement 26’
Danny Brown performing on the Waterfront Stage for Movement 26’
The Movement Stage is the main stage of the festival, taking place in the amphitheater section of Hart Plaza. Where internationally known acts and local legends take the stage.The stage where all the big dogs come to play.
Movement attendees at the Movement Stage
Carl Cox Performing on Movement Stage
Sara Landry Performing on Movement Stage