There’s a long list of reasons why camping festivals are such a unique experience. One of the most important reasons being the gorgeous venue locations. While some of these venues don’t offer camping without an accompanied festival, there are typically plenty of other campgrounds close by that offer the same breathtaking views and additional recreational activities. 

If you were planning on attending a destination camping festival this year, think twice about canceling your trip completely. We’ve gathered a list of great alternate campground options that will let you keep the camping festival spirit alive, while staying CDC-safe. 

Nocturnal Wonderland

Nocturnal Wonderland continues to be one of Southern California’s most popular camping festivals year after year. This funky festival typically takes place at the tail end of the summer, right when the California heat starts to drop. The Glen Helen Regional Park venue has always been a highlight for the Nocturnal attendees, but did you know that it’s a short car ride away from the scenic views of Lake Arrowhead? 

Dogwood Family Campground North Shore Campground are considered two of the best places to pitch a tent and enjoy nature near Lake Arrowhead. Both boast access to incredible hiking trails, tent and RV camping, and short trips to Lake Arrowhead Village. Bring your own glow sticks, those iconic string lights, and good vibes to bring the Nocturnal Wonderland experience to your site. 

Bring back the nostalgia for Glen Helen Amphitheater by hanging up some of the iconic Nocturnal Wonderland laterns at your campground! (Photo Credit: Nocturnal Wonderland)

The Gorge

The Gorge is one of the most iconic festival venues in the U.S. If you follow the festival scene, chances are you’ve seen the unbelievable views of ravers resting on sloping green hills, gazing at the main stage that is complemented by a beautiful canyon backdrop. This venue hosts unforgettable EDM shows each year including Paradiso and Bass Canyon. 

Unfortunately, The Gorge doesn’t host campers without also hosting festivals. However, there are plenty of scenic campgrounds within the area to get a similar experience. Fort Spokane and Spring Canyon are both campgrounds that offer tent camping along the Columbia River and Spokane River. The rivers are open for recreational use which is perfect for beating the summer heat. 

Although you won't actually be able to camp AT the Gorge, beautiful views & sunsets will still be part of your experience! (Photo Credit: Bass Canyon)

Sonic Bloom

Sonic Bloom is the perfect immersive camping festival experience that takes place during the first few days of summer. This nature-filled fest is set at Hummingbird Ranch in Colorado, and is surrounded by miles of natural beauty and recreational activities. 

Golden Eagle Campground is the perfect getaway spot for anyone looking to fully immerse themselves in the beauty that lies in Colorado. It’s located just south of Colorado Springs and is connected to 12+ miles of hiking trails. Take a day trip to Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, or just breathe in the fresh air and take in the natural endorphins of the earth. 

Tons of hikes with amazing views are available all throughout Colorado! Don't forget to stock up with a stylish backpack for your hike!

Imagine Music Festival

In need of an escape from your daily life? That’s exactly what Imagine Music Festival in Atlanta offers. Imagine brings together the dreamers of our community to celebrate in a civilization that is only as grand as you, well, imagine it. Imagine takes place towards the tail end of the summer when those southern heat levels take a dip. 

Stone Mountain Park Campground is also a popular destination in Atlanta for the late summer lovers. It hosts options for any campers wanting to pitch a tent, park their RV, or rent a yurt or safari tent. Imagine Music Festival goers will love the adventuristic nature of this huge park, as well as the ropes courses and hiking trails close to the campground. 

EDC Las Vegas

While camping at EDC LV is fairly new, it has quickly become one of the most anticipated (if not the most) camping festivals of the year. Camping in the Vegas heat without attending EDC might seem ludicrous, but there are incredible state parks right outside of the strip. 

Red Rocks and Valley of Fire are short trips away from the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, and even though they don’t have fireworks, they’re just as breathtaking as EDC itself. Immerse yourself in the otherworldly landscape of the bacon stripped rolling rocks in the Valley of Fire—Atlatl Rock Campground is a choice campground for this state park. Explore the scenic hiking trails throughout the mountainous boulders in Red Rocks by staying at Red Rock Camping. Make sure you check to see if these campgrounds are open before planning your trip as they do close during the hottest times of the year. 

Want to REALLY pretend like you're at EDC? You can actually buy a shiftpods, like the one featured above, for your squad online or from your local Sporting Goods store. (Photo Credit: EDC/Insomniac)

Electric Forest

This wouldn’t be a true tribute to camping festivals if we didn’t mention Electric Forest. If you are an annual Forest Dweller I’m sure you’re itching to get back to an outdoor oasis. While Electric Forest might be postponed until next year, there’s no reason you can’t take the magic of the forest to a close location to Sherwood Forest. 

Lucky Lake Campground is the perfect location to get out and enjoy the natural surrounding of 180 acres of woods, lakes, and critters. Walk along the pine needle trails and view the white tailed deer drinking from the residential lake. If you look hard enough, you might be able to find some forest fairies getting ready for next year’s fest! 

Bring the Festival to You: Tips for a Ravers to Enhance their Camping Experience

It’s heartbreaking that we can’t safely enjoy our favorite festivals this year, but we still have the power to bring the magic and unique vibes that accompany our favorite fests, right to our own campsites. If you do decide to travel to your favorite destination this year, here are a few ways you can turn your tent or RV into your own festival, headlined by you. 

• Decorate your space with solar-powered lights! Get a variety of different colors and sizes to get the full feeling that you’re looking out at the main stage. Keep your lights out during the day so they can recharge before the sun goes down. 
• Plan your outfits! Even though you won't have the opportunity get truly festival-ready this year, you can still look comfy-cute while camping! And why not take the opportunity to have a photoshoot with a gorgeous background?
• Bring portable speakers and play your favorite festival sets from years past. Just make sure you’re being mindful of any neighbors and campground noise policies. 
• Set up a portable grill or stovetop and try to recreate your favorite festival snacks. Maybe you’ll find a great new recipe for lobster mac n cheese or gourmet pizza that you can share with your crew.
• Don't forget your mask! Even though you'll be in the great outdoors, you'll still need a mask for stops you make along the way and if your campground has a public restroom.
• Don't forget the floaties! Make a statement by purchasing matching floaties for your squad, like these unicorns featured below!

Photo Credit: Imagine Music Festival 

Wherever you decide to spend your destination camping trip this year, make sure you bring plenty of PLUR vibes… and bug spray. 

1. Travel to a new destination, and 
2. Attend a kick ass music festival. 

While the time where these activities are possible might seem like eons away, there are actions you can start taking now to prepare yourself so you’re completely ready when those festival announcements peak over the horizon. Whether you have your rave bucket list finalized, laminated, and framed, or you’re just now discovering the expansive world of overseas and out of state shows, now is the perfect time to start turning those dreams into a reality. 

Here are 5 tips to help you start planning for your dream destination festival in 2021:

1. Make a wishlist

So you want to attend a destination festival in 2021 but you don’t know which ones to put at the top of your list? Research every festival that sparks your interest, even if it may seem like it’s unrealistic. Once you have your dream list, narrow it down to your top 3-5. Take into account the locations, what lodging would look like, the time of year they take place, and how easily you would be able to fit them into your schedule. 

Focusing on only a few destination festivals makes it easier for you to plan and turn those “if only” thoughts into “I’m going.” You don’t have to attend all of them in 2021, but by starting the research of everything that goes into attending your wishlist fests, you’re already giving yourself realistic expectations you can start planning for. 

Make sure you’re following the official social media pages for the fests on your wishlist! You’ll want to see regular updates on event news, ticket releases, lineup drops, set times, etc. Most festivals (if not all) will regularly update their Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages with this information, so giving them a quick follow is a foolproof way to make sure you’re in the know of any updates. 

2. Start saving

This tip seems like a no brainer, but it’s also the hardest one to follow through on. It’s no surprise that raves cost money and traveling to one costs even more. The earlier you start saving and planning for any upcoming trips the better. So why not start now? 

Given the current economic climate we’re living in, you might find it harder to put away funds to support your future festival plans. But there are small ways you can start stashing cash so you’re not breaking the bank last minute. 

Start by setting up a separate savings account specifically for trip funds. Each week or month, begin feeding it a few bucks here and there. Unsure on how much you should start contributing? Stash away the amount you were willing to pay for the 2020 festivals that have been postponed. If that is too much to save all at once, start by putting in the amount you would be spending monthly on Ubers, or weekly lattes. You’ll be surprised how much you can save when you’re mindful of your miscellaneous spending.   

Another easy way to save money - create a "piggy" bank and throw your spare change/leftover cash in it weekly. It's amazing how quickly it can add up!

3. Begin booking

Already booking hotels and airfares might seem a bit too ambitious, but if you’re looking to save major cash now is the perfect time to start putting your plans into action. Start looking into the best options available for your travel and lodging plans, not just for the festival itself, but for any other excursions you might want to do around the show. 

Flights, air bnbs, hotel rooms, and all other necessities are always cheaper the further in advance you book. So do your research, get the confirmation of your crew, and pull the trigger on beginning your destination festival experience. Just make sure all reservations you book come with a full refund in case plans change. 

4. Plan excursions

One of the best things about a destination festival is the destination. If your schedule and budget allows it, look for the most exciting things you can do around the festival before, after, or in between the event. 

Every area is its own treasure and has history and hidden gems worth exploring. If you don’t have a lot of time to spare, look up the top-rated restaurants in the location. Maybe you’ll stumble across a recipe you can try to recreate at home. If you travel out of the country for your fest, look up surrounding countries or destination points you’d love to visit once you’re over there. Travel between European countries is always a lot cheaper than traveling overseas. You’d be surprised at the amount of places you can visit with a small budget. If you’re unable to get the extended vacation hours off work and can’t extend your stay past the festival dates, look for activities to do before the doors open each day. Already planning to head to Europe for Tomorrowland? Maybe you’ll find yourself at the Jameson Factory in Ireland for a few days before the show! The possibilities are truly endless. 

5. Put together your outfits

If you find yourself struggling to beat boredom this year, start throwing together looks that can serve as your outfits for your dream destination festival. Most festivals have a theme or specific vibe that you can use as the inspiration to your fashion choices. Want to blend in with the crowd? Look up how people in your festival destination like to rave. Ravers in the U.S. tend to dress up a bit more than those in other countries. 

Whether you choose to stand out or camouflage in with the other festival-goers, you can start creating your outfits while you wait for 2021. Already have a trunk full of rave gear? See if you can create unique looks by pairing different pieces together. Need something new? Check out your favorite festival fashion sites that are still stocked with apparel and boasting sales. If you already have your outfits finalized, start mastering your hair and makeup looks. Don’t be afraid to pull inspiration and tips from some of your favorite Instagram influencers to spice up your looks and expand your skills. 

@tinydancer_88

While the 2020 blues might be getting you down, there’s plenty of ways to keep your spirits high when you have something monumental planned on the horizon. Planning ways to attend your dream destination fest in 2021 is a great way to keep yourself occupied, learn how to responsibly save for the events that bring you joy, and flex your creative muscles. Whether you dream of attending Ultra Japan, Tomorrowland, Beyond Wonderland, Electric Forest, Shamabala, or any others, it’s never too soon to grow your excitement and put plans in motion. 

This festival invokes the incredibly kooky and fantastical world of Alice in Wonderland, and Beyond Wonderland fashion is no exception. This is your opportunity to flaunt your creative energy into your Beyond outfits, whether you want to dress as Tweedledee and Tweedledum with your festie bestie, reign supreme as the Queen of Hearts, metamorphosis into a beautiful butterfly, or transform into the intimidating Jabberwocky. 

Don’t have your Beyond Wonderland outfit planned out yet? Well, don’t fret. We’ll make sure you won’t be late to this very important date. Here are a few options for Beyond Wonderland looks to inspire your fashion creativity: 

1. Trippy Print

2.Flamingo 

3. Butterfly Babe

4. Trippy Mushroom

5. Clouds

6. Card Print

7. Rabbitt

1. Trippy Print

Embody the weirdness that is Wonderland with some trippy prints that will turn your rave fashion up a crazy notch and give you that edgy boost you’ll need to lead the crowd down the rabbit hole. 

Trip Sitter Outfit

Groovy Gal High Waisted Thong

2. Flamingo

You won’t be mistaken for anyone's croquet mallet in this pretty in pink outfit. Strut your fabulous fashion with this feathery but classic look. Want a bit more shimmer? Don’t be shy and sprinkle on some glitter!

Not Ur Baby Marabou Mesh Skirt Set, Get Braidified Hair Extensions, Demonia Badass Chunky Heel White Platforms, Lunautics Love Face Jewels

3. Butterfly Babe

Everyone will be asking “whO aRe yoU?” while you’re dancing around the festival grounds in these bold butterfly fits. Whether you’re matching with your festival fam or the only butterfly in the bunch, you’ll have a great time flitting around Wonderland. 

Butterfly Kiss Wrap Around Bikini Top, Butterfly Kiss Marabou Wrap Mini Skirt, Butterfly Bobby Pins

Butterfly Groove Front Tie Crop Top, Butterfly Groove High Waisted Booty Shorts

4. Trippy Mushroom

Dream to be a fashionable fungi? Unleash your weird and wacky side with this trippy mushroom outfit. Dress it up with face jewels and glitter for a more personalized look. 

Trip Sitter Reflective Shroom Sporty Crop Top, Trip Sitter Reflective Shroom High Cut Bottoms, Get Braidified Pastel Me More Hair Extensions, Lunautics Secret Garden Glitter, Pair Of Non-Slip Rainbow Leg Wraps

Clouds

Are you a dreamer just like Alice? Share your inner whimsical nature with these Head in the Clouds looks. Don’t forget your Fluffy Cloud Nailz, these details are everything. 

Head In The Clouds Mesh Long Sleeve Top, Head In The Clouds Mesh Mini Skirt, 

iHR x J. Val Cloud Cutie Mesh Crop Top, iHR x J. Val Cloud Cutie Vinyl Skirt

6. Card Print

Cards play an icon part in the Alice in Wonderland movie! Dress the part with a card-print crop top, or card-themed pasties!

Wonderland Cards Crop Top, Love In the Air Mesh Heart Tee

 

7. Rabbit

As you let your creativity shine at Beyond, make sure your comfort is a top priority as well. It’s a long and weird journey ahead of you, and you’ll come back with plenty of tales to tell. Now that you have your outfit ideas locked in, you’re ready to paint the roses red! If you still need more Beyond Wonderland outfit inspo, check out the new Beyond Wonderland Outfits collection!

See you in Wonderland!

Beyond Wonderland has earned its well-deserved spot among my list of all time favorite festivals and I can’t wait to journey back for my fourth year. It presents the perfect setting to unveil your inner lunatic among the court of insane artists, bizarre performers, and crazy vibes. Whether you’re a frequent Wonderland resident or have yet to stumble down the rabbit hole, there are plenty of reasons to secure your ticket for this year’s fest. 

Here are three magical reasons to travel to Beyond Wonderland: 

1. The Alice in Wonderland Theme:

“I’m not crazy. My reality is just different than yours.” You’ll be smiling as big as the Cheshire Cat when you walk through the gates of Beyond completely immersed in the new reality that is Wonderland. Beyond has become one of Insomniac’s most iconic fests of the year with a large part of that success being devoted to the theme. 

Walking through the gates you’ll see an array of vibrant flowers, larger than life-sized chess pieces, trippy patterns, and one wandering giant caterpillar. The decor is pulled straight from your imagination and the kooky characters wandering the grounds are sure to make you question if you’ve stumbled into a storybook. 

Photo Credit: Insomniac Events/Beyond Wonderland

With a great picturesque environment comes even greater opportunities to flaunt your fashion. Beyond boasts one of the year’s best opportunities to get creative with your rave wear. Do you dream of being a fabulous flamingo, butterfly babe, raving rabbit, or The Alice herself? savormeditation has got you covered for any wild creation you want to whip up. Check out this blog article featuring Beyond Wonderland Outfit Inspiration!

Get inspired with this Hoppin' Hottie Outfit

2. The Lineup

I’ve been more than impressed with Beyond Wonderland’s lineups in the past, and this year is no different. This year’s artists include a diverse list of top DJs from just about every genre of EDM. From bass to house to techno to trance, there will always be something that will perk up your ears and entice you to join a stage. 

With a lineup this stacked, it will definitely be difficult to choose who to lock in on your setlist. I highly recommend listening to a few tracks from each artist, especially the ones you might not be familiar with. You never know who you might become a fan of early on in their music career! But if you would like some choice opinions, here are a few artists I’m mad as a hatter over: 

Infected Mushroom (Live)

The most anticipated on my list is Infected Mushroom. Their funky psytrance beats are enough to keep me groovin' like a maniac. Not to mention, their live sets include a full band on stage which always brings an infectious excitement to a set’s atmosphere.

Mija

The announcement of Mija on a lineup sparked my attention immediately. Even though she plays around the globe, I personally haven’t seen her on a SoCal lineup in years. She quickly grabs your attention with her creative sets and holds it with her unique drops. While she started off her career in house, her sound has crossed and melded genres, leaving a show that will always defy expectations in only the best way.

Kayzo

Heading to a Kayzo set is always a good idea. Whether you want a quick pick me up, a face-melting show, or literally want to lose your head, Kayzo is your man to get the job done. His incredible sound of hard bass paired with mind-blowing visuals brings an energy like no other that washes over the crowd and gets everyone on their feet.

3. The Experience

Out of all the festivals I’ve attended, Beyond Wonderland always seems to bring the best vibes among the volunteers, employees, artists, and attendees. This is one of the first festivals that kick off the year and everyone is rested and ready to start the season with incredible energy. 

Photo Credit: Insomniac Events/Beyond Wonderland 

This festival has so many perks, including: interactive art, a beautiful venue with trippy decorations, insanely flamboyant characters, themed-rides, and 4+ breathtaking stages. Beyond’s main stages diversify the venue’s various sounds while always dispelling crowds. Not to mention each stage is well covered in case of the (pretty unlikely) chance of bad weather. 

Photo Credit: Insomniac Events/Beyond Wonderland 

So what are you waiting for? Grab your tickets, pack up your “Drink Me” potion, and dive headfirst down the rabbit hole and into Wonderland. See you there! 

This was the second Countdown I have attended, but it was the first that was held on a single night. Even though this festival lacked multiple days like other NYE celebrations across the country, it surely didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything. From the stacked lineup, the unmatched vibes, and extravagant art installations, my EDM loving soul felt as nourished as it needed to be to end the decade. 

The night began wandering around the festival to take in everything Insomniac had to offer. I always like to make it a point to experience the performers and art pieces outside of the main stages at a festival, and given how much my group and I planned on hopping from stage to stage early on in the night, we arrived at the front gates early with our excitement levels spiked high. 

Photo Credit: Insomniac/Countdown 

I’m a regular attendee of Insomniac events at the NOS Events Center, but I’ve never seen the grounds transformed quite as… other-worldly… as they were for the alien invasions at Countdown. Every corner was donned in extraterrestrial decor or inhabited by real life aliens. We stood in awe of the alien babes spotlighted in the makeshift red light district and my nostalgia was brought on full force by the Mars Attacks! aliens threatening to zap any passerbyers. Once the sun fully set the lasers that constantly shot across the venue were much more impressive, and I had to physically refrain myself from shouting, “Beam me up Scotty!” every time I saw one shoot overhead. Oh, did I mention that jaw dropping luminescent forest? If the sound of the stages didn’t pull me out of my wide-eyed daze, I could’ve spent hours wandering around in those beams of ever-changing colors. 

Photo Credit: Insomniac/Countdown 

The first set we started the jam-packed night with was throwing down with ATLiens at the Nebula stage. Once the sun went down the venue got COLD and only continued to gain a stronger chill once the night progressed. Luckily, there were plenty of heaters to huddle by around each stage so I stayed towards the back and danced during Gryffin and then headed over to finish out Elephante’s set at the Mothership stage. 

Passing by each stage gave me insight into how unique each one was set up and how it represented the name assigned to it. There were four stages set up at Countdown: Mothership, Nebula, Area 51, and Twilight Zone -- with the addition of two smaller stages/silent discos: Biosphere and Area 151. While my personal lineup didn’t allow me to fully explore each stage, they all had incredible production and did a great job of dispersing the attendees in an already crowded fest. 

Photo Credit: Insomniac/Countdown 

My night continued with rushing back to Nebula to catch Nitti Gritti and then back to Mothership to groove to Oliver Heldens. The excitement only grew with the booms of the bass as the clock ticked closer to midnight. 

Jai Wolf was my next stop. I’ve never seen a full Jai Wolf set before and now I’m slightly kicking my past self because I had no idea what I was missing. This was easily tied for my favorite set of the night. Jai Wolf’s set was the perfect mix of feel good tunes, familiar tracks, and absolute incredible beats that got me completely lost in the music and had my body groovin’ to each song. Which is exactly what I look for in a perfect set. 

Ok, now Porter Robinson. As soon as the set times dropped I was completely over the moon that I was going to be closing out the decade with a Porter set. He is my all time favorite artist and even though I’ve already seen him play 3 times this year, my stomach still filled with butterflies as soon as he took the stage. I heard a lot of talk on social media that his set was the most anticipated of the evening and I was fully expecting to be sandwiched in between ravers the entire time, but I was surprised that where my group was there was still quite a bit of room to dance around. Porter gave us quite possibly the best gift I could’ve ever asked for at midnight, ending and starting two decades with Language. My cheeks have never hurt so much during one set (from both smiling and the cold air). 

The remainder of my night and beginning of 2020 was closed out with SVDDEN DEATH’s VOYD set and 12th Planet. The entire evening was a flurry of extraordinary beats and joyful people. I did get a boost in my mood every time someone complimented my outfit, too! 

This year, I dove headfirst into the cyber vibes with the Reflective Wave Mesh Bodysuit and Down 4 The Ride Reflective Chain Chaps. 

Countdown 2019 was the best way I could’ve imagined ending both the year and the decade. Not only was the music incredible, but being able to groove, explore, and countdown to midnight with my favorite people was the cherry on top of a perfect event. 

While there are many NYE fests that call for your attention every year, I highly recommend spending your next new year’s celebration in Southern California. 

If you’ve received your wristband but are still stumped on who to lock in on your lineup, or you’re still debating on full sending it to this festival, worry not because this article will help persuade you to make those difficult decisions. 

While this stacked lineup is sure to have artists you’ll be dying to see, I’m sharing my thoughts to help narrow down those set conflict choices. 

Here are the top 5  sets I’m making a priority to attend at Countdown 2019. 

Yes, I am extremely biased because Porter has been my all time favorite artist for years, but for good reason! If you’ve never seen a Porter Robinson set, or you’ve seen 50, this is one performance you will not want to miss out on. His melodic beats and colorful visuals lift your soul and transport you to another world. Plus, he’s one of the artists ringing in the new year at midnight! Who doesn’t want to kiss their rave bae or dance into 2020 with Divinity or Shelter as the song that introduces you to the new decade? 

SVDDEN DEATH presents VOYD

SVDDEN DEATH is making his VOYD set at Countdown the first set his plays in the 2020’s. VOYD has been annihilating audiences in 2019, with theatrical stage presence and insane visuals, but according to SVDDEN DEATH the Countdown VOYD set is the one that really counts. 

This set will be a basshead’s dream come true, so if you have an itch to do some serious headbanging make sure to keep SVDDEN DEATH in mind. 

Oliver Heldens

If Oliver Heldens is on a lineup I always try to make it a priority to see him. His groovy sound creates the perfect atmosphere to let loose and vibe to some serious house tunes. If you’re a fan of his funky beats, this set is sure to make you walk away in a much better mood (even if you’re already having the time of your life). 

Want to be all up in your feels? Jai Wolf brings his emotional tracks to the table for every set he plays and Countdown should be no different. I have been particularly stoked to see him play since he released his album, The Cure to Loneliness, in April of this year. His newer indie/folk tunes are definitely a change of speed compared to the rest of the festival and I’m so excited to dive in head first. 

Why not melt your face off for the final set of the night? It was an extremely tough decision but 12th Planet has occupied my slot for the final set of Countdown. This is the perfect set to throw down any remaining energy you have at the end of the night and get down to some serious riddim and deep dubstep beats. 

I’ve shown you my essential lineup, so tell me who’s on your list of CANNOT miss at Countdown 2019? 

Still haven’t locked in your tickets? Get them before they’re gone! 

Here are the top three reasons why I will be celebrating Trancegiving again next year: 

The Trance Tunes

I’ve been a fan of trance and psytrance ever since I came into the EDM scene years ago. The idea of a festival where every stage will be playing an incredible sound that I usually don’t get to hear in abundance at bigger events had my excitement levels through the roof. Each day I had a few artists on my radar that I did not want to miss, but in between those sets my friends and I let ourselves wander to where the music called us over to get lost in the beats. 

The first day was highlighted by Ace Ventura, Gentech, and Aly & Fila. My favorite set from day one was Astrix. With a rolling baseline of 138 bpm, his set really set the tone for what psytrance is all about. High intensity beats made you feel like you were going warped speed on a spaceship, and we were all along for the ride. 

The second day was more highly anticipated for me with the large amount of Ajunabeats artists present on the setlist. My low energy was immediately replenished during Oliver Smith’s set. The familiar beats drew in my crew and had us dancing throughout the whole show. My favorite sets from day two were Above & Beyond (of course) and Abraxis. This was my first time experiencing Above & Beyond at a festival and they lived up to the hype. Whether you were dancing with your friends, in the arms of a rave bae, or vibing by yourself, this two hour set transformed the atmosphere to one of the most euphoric and warmhearted sets I’ve ever experienced. I was astonished by Abraxis’ closing set. This new duo kept everyone on their toes with their experimental mix of psytrance and sneaking in some heavier beats along the way. 

The Outstanding Ambiance 

Walking into the NOS Event Center during an Insomniac festival is always a sight to behold, but walking into Dreamstate was on a whole different level. Blue, white, and pink lights were strung across the entire venue, casting a soft purplish hue over every surface not already illuminated by the stage lights. The NOS lake reflected the glowing lights from below as the water rippled from the three huge fountains that acted as the welcome sign to this utopian world. Dozens of shining cybernetic crystals sprung from the grounds, creating a perfect backdrop for anyone wanting to take photos and document a small portion of their time spent at this uplifting event. 

Dreamstate hosted three stages, all equally impressive with their visual production and euphoric sounds. The Vision acted as a warm oasis away from the cold November air. An incredible multi-ring structure hung from the ceiling casting colored lights across the crowd. The Sequence was the home of psytrance heaven. I found myself being pulled back to this stage for the most psychedelic sets of the weekend. The Dream rightfully held the title of the main stage. Huge screens projected changing images of statues, lyrics, and utopian landscapes throughout each set. It acted as the perfect beacon to draw the whole trance fam together and vibe to our favorite artists. Oh, and did I mention the lasers? Getting lost underneath their atmospheric light did not disappoint! 

The Most Incredible Vibes

I feel like a broken record when I say this, but this festival had some of the most incredible people in attendance, seriously. I’ve heard a few rumors about the trance community being incredibly amicable and bubbly, and experiencing the Dreamers at this event first hand validated that for me. I have never felt so welcomed into a family more than willing to share in the music and vibes they love the most. It truly felt like coming home to a reunion. 

The Dreamstate performers were another huge highlight of the weekend. The shining zero gravity acrobats were entertaining enough to watch by themselves, but having the main stage centered behind them was the cherry on top of their performance. The luminescent cyber angels and other performers strolling through the festival grounds really brought the utopian society to life. 

Photo Courtesy of Dreamstate

I’m so glad I made it out to celebrate Dreamstate 2019 with my crew. Not only did we make some great new memories and listen to mind-blowing music, we met some amazing people to share them with as well. If you’re a fan of trance, I highly recommend adding Dreamstate SoCal to your festival bucket list for 2020!

Here are some suggestions to help you make a great first impression with the electronic loving extraterrestrials: 

I Come in Peace.Love.Unity.Respect  

Step off your UFO and into the festival in this fun and glamorous space babe look. No matter what planet you’re from, you’ll be the star of the night in this holo-heavy outfit. 

Silver Drip Holo Corset Top, Neva Nude Kanye The Alien Super Holographic Pasties, Sky Full Of Stars PVC Mini Skirt, Demonia Hella Holographic Platform Boots

Future Reflective Renegade 

Reflect on 2019 and then take control of your future with this edgy reflective look. Not only is reflective wear one of the top rave styles right now, but you’ll shine brighter than the sun once those stage lights hit the crowd. 

Down 4 The Ride Reflective Chain Chaps, Reflective Wave Mesh Bodysuit, Neva Nude Reflective Cross Pasties

Alien Rave Babe 

Show your style is out of this world with this alien-inspired look. This outfit combines two of the most popular looks of 2019, neon and fishnet. If your fierce confidence from this look isn’t enough to make you stand out, the glow in the dark alien pasties will do the trick. 

Fishnet Bikini Top, IHR X J. Valentine PWR UP Corset,Pastease Glitter Glow In The Dark Alien Pasties, Heeled Combat Boots, Go After It Fishnet High Waisted Bottoms, Shrine Easy Tiger Alien Face Jewel

Captain Starlight

Get ready to take command of the stars with this complete outfit by savormeditation. You’ll be a shining star on the dancefloor with this look, topped off with an iridescent captain's hat, sparkling boob & body gems, and a holographic choker. You can find more complete outfits like this in the outfit's section of savormeditation's website!

Captain Starlight Outfit

Stay Lit

Looking for an easy way for ET to spot you and beam you up to his spaceship? Make sure you’re wearing a luminous look! Choose one of the light-up bodysuits and wings, and pair them with LED flow toys. 

J. Valentine Light Up The Night Bodysuit, Multi LED Wings, Astro Levitation Wand

Festival Fringe

Not onboard with the extraterrestrial vibe? Celebrate stepping out of this decade with these fringe-tastic looks. These colorful and unique outfits are just what you need to blast out of this decade! 

 J. Valentine Neon Carnival Fringe Harness,

J. Valentine Sassy Fringe Harness Bottoms, J. Valentine Sassy Fringe Harness Top

Sequin Star Sisters

Attending Countdown with your festie bestie? Check out these sassy and sparkly looks that feature subtle, space elements with these mesh skirts. The sparkles on the skirts will twinkle like stars under the stage lights, making you two the bright babes in this galaxy!

Don’t Forget the Fur

Stay fashionable and protected from frostbite with this year’s collection of faux furs and sherpa outerwear. Not only are these a must-have for the freezing New Year’s Eve chill, but they add a staple piece to any under-accessorized outfit. 

Now that you have your New Year’s Eve outfit put together, it’s time to finalize your welcome message when the aliens land at Countdown, December 31st at the NOS Event Center in San Bernardino, CA. See you there, Earthlings! 

Look at That Lineup

The lineup for Dreamstate will get any trance fan crying. The extensive list of artists range across various subgenres of trance, including new artists to the Dreamstate scene and loved artists that have been dominating the EDM genre for years. 

More well-known artists include Ferry Corsten, Bryan Kearney, Giuseppe Ottaviani, Gareth Emery, Ace Ventura, Vini Vici, and Sean Tyas. New Dreamers will be happy to hear trance tunes they may recognize from other legacy events. 

This doesn’t include the incredible number of Anjunabeats artists on the list, Above & Beyond, Andrew Bayer B2B Ilian Bluestone, Gabriel & Dresden, Genix, Jason Ross, Oliver Smith, Spencer Brown, and Sunny Lax. Who else is excited to sing Sun & Moon at the top of the lungs at the Above & Beyond set? 

There are a number of newer artists on the lineup, but one that would be more noticeable to those newer to the trance scene is Seven Lions and Dimibo’s debut of their psytrance project, Abraxis. While they shed light on their new sound at Electric Forest this year, this duo has yet to officially release any music directly related to the project. Whether you’re a fan of Seven Lions, Dimibo, or psytrance, this will be a set worth checking out. 

Fall For the Fashion

One of the greatest parts of Dreamstate, other than groovin' to your favorite EDM genre, is flitting around the festival as a trance fairy. The Dreamstate fashion is always some of the most magical pieces of the year. As the festival is always held in November, the chilly weather encourages attendees to piece together outerwear and accessories that would usually be immediately discarded during summer fests. 

Dreamstate typically takes on a whimsical and utopian luminescent theme to its adjacent fashion vibes. If you’ve ever wanted to spread your lit up wings and twirl around to uplifting tunes, Dreamstate is the perfect festival to adorn those accessories. Want to unleash your trance magic in fashion form, but don’t have the wardrobe to piece together the perfect look? savormeditation has got you covered. 

New Year's Eve fests aren’t the only ones that encourage outerwear. Stay cozy sitting next to the NOS lake or looking fun and fierce with the various options of faux fur, sherpa, and bedazzling lit up coats and jackets on the savormeditation site. 

Photo Credit: @Tinydancer_88

Finish your looks off with the perfect magical, festival accessories, or make them the staple piece of your fit. Don’t forget your pixel whips, levitation wands, LED gloves, and (of course) glitter and face gems! 

Get Lost in the Vibes

Whether you’re a time traveler, spacewalker, or alien babe, Dreamstate has incredible vibes that will pull you out of your body and transport you to a higher state of consciousness. Above all else, this festival is known for welcoming crowd and magical features that make the experience unlike any other. 

Trance is a great genre with fans that are incredibly loyal to the sound. You will find yourself getting down to any subgenre from hard trance and psytrance to uplifting beats. Dreamstate SoCal is still a relatively new festival as this its 5th year in production. You can be part of the beginnings of this up and coming legacy. 

Photo Credit: Dreamstate

So what are you waiting for? Get your Dreamstate tickets now! 

See you Dreamers there! 

Staying green at raves doesn’t have to be a daunting task. You may feel overwhelmed or confused on where to start, but don’t fret—there are easy ways to begin your habit of respecting the space you’re raving in. Here are four simple ways you can stay eco-friendly at festivals: 

Carpool 

Start your festival adventure off on the right foot before even arriving at the venue. Vehicle emissions are one of the biggest environmental issues that are affiliated with music festivals. According to the Association of Independent Festivals, "more than 66% of people travel to their festival of choice by car, with more people than ever traveling in a car of two or fewer people." 

If you choose to take your own car to the venue, strongly consider carpooling with other attendees. Not only are you reducing your carbon footprint, but now you have a car full of ravers pitching in for gas money, sharing the excitement on the way to the show, and jamming out to your favorite songs along the way. If you have the option, use public transportation, rideshare, or shuttle services as your mode of transportation. Not only would you be greatly helping the environment, but think about how much faster you’ll get to the venue without traffic!

Biodegradable Glitter

Glitter is now engrained in rave fashion culture, and probably permanently ingrained in every part of your life as it sticks with you. If you’re one of the many ravers that finds glitter popping up in your car, bathroom, bed, and somehow in your hair, you should know first hand at how durable it is. These little sparkling flakes may make your outfit pop and face shine, but it is still a microplastic and very damaging to the environment. Glitter is commonly eaten by fish, plankton, and birds—which then ends up in the food you eat. 

If getting rid of glitter is where you draw the line, good news! Biodegradable glitter is the perfect accessory to add the finishing touches on any festival fit. This beauty product will fully biodegrade in both wastewater and marine water environments, in the presence of heat, water, oxygen, and microorganisms. Check out the different shades of biodegradable glitter savormeditation has to offer! 

Wouldn’t it be great to re-wear those gem pasties or third eye jewels that you were complimented on all night? A great way of saving the planet and your paycheck is reusing face and body jewels. Just bring in a small bag or the packaging the jewels came with to save them if you tend the take them off before getting back to your home or hotel. A lot of these jewels can easily be worn a second or third time by applying eyelash glue to add a little extra stick. 

Recycle

You know that feeling of walking away from the last set of the night, when you’re over the moon satisfied of the incredible experience you just had dancing to your favorite artists and meeting new friends, only to be disappointed by seeing the heaps of garbage being kicked around as everyone shuffles out of the venue? Instead of just feeling guilt, take action and pick up a few pieces of trash to throw away on your way out. Lost Lands 2019 held the Safari Trash Party, an incredible way to clean up the trash littering festival grounds at the end of the night. Ravers were given trash bags and if they filled theirs to the top they won special Excision bandanas and pins. While this large scale clean up might not be present at every festival, the mentality can be adopted and incorporated in very simple ways. 

Just about every festival now has just as many recycle bins as regular trash bins. It’s not hard to choose to throw your can or bottle in the correct bin, but quite a few people aren’t informed on what can be considered recyclable. You can recycle plastics cups and bottles, paper, cardboard, aluminum cans, and (if the festival you’re at has them) glass bottles. 

A good way to limit trash from piling up on the ground is to incorporate regular clean up during your entire festival experience. Whenever you leave a stage or resting spot, pick up two pieces of trash off the ground and throw them away in their appropriate bins. 

Reduce and Reuse 

A great way to limit the amount of trash you create is to not create any at all! If you have the option to bring in a hydration pack or refillable water bottle into the event, it can help keep trash off the ground and money in your pocket. Need a hydration pack for your next event? savormeditation has your covered with their assortment of fashionable packs. 

Vibedration Hydration Pack

Do you find yourself revisiting the drink booths throughout the day? Instead of adding more plastic cups to your trash count, keep the same container to bring back up to the bartender for your next beverage. It’s a great simple way to stay environmentally conscious while not limiting your partying plans. 

These simple tips can easily be adopted into your festival experience and start to make a huge difference to helping maintain the environment we love to rave in. It’s more important now than ever to help save our earth and do our part to recover from the environmental crisis we’re currently in. Burning Man does not have to be the only event with a “Leave No Trace” policy. We can all do our part to show love to music, each other, and the planet. 

Do you have any additional tips on how to be more eco-friendly at festivals? Let us know in the comments!

Since this was my first time attending Nocturnal Wonderland I knew camping was my only option to completely immerse myself in the experience. Wow let me tell ya, it lived up to the hype. The party started as soon as the full moon made its appearance Friday night, and the campground energy seemed to elevate as the moon rose in the night sky. The Pre-Party at the Parliament Art Car set the tone and incredible vibes that spread through the crowd the whole weekend. Throughout Dr. Fresch and SAYMYNAME I had to keep reminding myself there was still a whole 2-day festival I had to pace myself for. 

Photo Courtesy of Insomniac Events/Nocturnal Wonderland

Day 1 at the campground was HOT. But the 102 degree heat was no match for the chill vibes… although the waterpark did help. The campground offered various activities all weekend long—yoga, chakra rebalancing, a tie-dye party, and a build your own terrarium class were just a few of the exciting events on the list. Unfortunately, I only had enough energy to make it for the Rise & Energize yoga session Saturday morning before the heat had the campers flocking to the waterpark. 

Photo Courtesy of Insomniac Events/Nocturnal Wonderland

As soon as the sun started to set the air drastically cooled off, almost like Glen Helen was getting the venue ready for the mosh pits and shuffle circles that would soon ensue. I was immediately blown away by the diversity of each stage after walking into the festival. Wolf Den’s size, visuals, and sound made it worthy of the main stage title. Sunken Garden was the perfect spot to vibe out, the lighthouse look acting as a beacon for all fans of house beats. Labyrinth was the best reward for hiking up the hill it rested on. My favorite part of this stage, along with the headbanging crowd and filthy drops, was the view it offered of the rest of the fest, the multicolored lights from the campground, and the scenic hills. 

Photo Courtesy of Insomniac Events/Nocturnal Wonderland

I spent the majority of the first day running around the festival trying to see most of the artists on my list. I started with Champagne Drip B2B ZEKE BEATS. Even at the first set of the night I noticed just how incredible the atmosphere is at Nocturnal. Everyone seemed to have their hearts set on making the most of everyone’s last time experiencing America’s longest-running rave at this beloved venue. 

One of my favorite things about Nocturnal was how well every stage flowed together with the art displays, but still stood completely unique from one another. It was so easy walking from stage to stage as they all sat in a line, but there wasn’t sound bleeding over from one set to the other. It made it easy to get sucked into dancing at an unknown set on your way to another destination. 

I closed out night one with a mix of getting caught in my feels and raging to Zeds Dead (always a must see if they’re on the setlist). Greatest part of camping at Nocturnal Wonderland, the party doesn’t have to stop when the festival ends. The silent discos started at midnight with Sage Armstrong killing it at Sleepless Safari and Sumthin Sumthin groovin’ at Raccoon Lagoon. Unfortunately, I couldn’t hang as long as the festivities lasted, but I did see some hardcore ravers making their way back to crash at their tents when I got up in the morning to hit the showers. 

Day 2 of Nocturnal I was set on getting caught in the experience of the music and floated around wherever it took me. 

While in line for some lobster mac n cheese (HIGHLY RECOMMEND) my group stood in awe of the incredible sunset that started creating its own crazy visuals across the sky. We rushed to find a spot on the hill in between Sunken Garden and Labyrinth to enjoy the full show. The cotton candy clouds casted a pink hue across the entire crowd. Even though Subtronics played the night before, that final Glen Helen sunset really be hittin different. 

My first and final experience of Nocturnal Wonderland at Glen Helen exceeded my expectations. My favorite sets of the weekend were G Jones, Peekaboo, Steve Darko, Zeds Dead, and CamelPhat B2B Solardo. 

Beyond the music and venue, what really made this festival special were the people in attendance. I found myself taking a step back multiple times throughout the weekend to really take in the kindness and contagious positive vibes everyone emanated. If you shared love and respect you got it back tenfold. Not to mention, most people were quite literally glowing in their neon adorned outfits under the UV lights. 

I’ve heard from quite a few people that Nocturnal Wonderland occupies the spot for their favorite music festival. While everyone has their own reasons for this popular opinion (the venue being one I’ve heard multiple times), I’m happy I was able to greet this festival for the first time with everyone as we also said goodbye to Glen Helen. Nocturnal is an ever-evolving festival, and I can’t wait to see what new and returning features will come with next year’s event. 

The camping festivities begin a day before the festival on Friday, September 13th. Whether you’re a camping connoisseur or a Nocturnal newbie, you’re not going to want to forget any camping essentials when packing. These camping tips and packing checklist will ensure you have everything you need to make the most during your adventure in Wonderland. 

NOCTURNAL FESTIVAL ESSENTIALS: 

• Ticket/Wristband
• Camping Pass and Additional Car Pass (Both just as important as the festival ticket!)
• Portable Charger and Charging Cable (Fully charged)
• Fanny Pack or Hydration Pack
• Valid 18+ ID, Card, and Cash
• Totems (learn how to make your own rave totem)
• Flow Toys (Excluding LED gloves)
• Kandi!
• Unopened essentials (Gum, chapstick, deodorant, sunscreen, etc.)

CAMPSITE CHECKLIST

• Tent/RV
• Pegs and Mallet
• Sleeping Bags and/or Blow-up Mattress with Air Pump
• Pillows and Blankets (Bring extra—it does get chilly!)
• Camping Chairs
• Canopy (Not mandatory but your future self will thank you for the added shade)
• Flashlight
• Scissors
• Tape
• Bug Spray (Especially for you Waterfront and Lakeside Camping people)
• Lamp
• Earplugs and Mask Bandanas
• Yoga Mat (Great for extra sleep cushioning and Rise & Energize Yoga)
• Tapestries, LED Lights, and anything else to express your camp’s uniqueness!

CLOTHES AND ACCESSORIES

• Rave Fits (savormeditation will keep you groovin’ and glowin’ with these Nocturnal Wonderland Outfits)
• Campground Lounge Clothes 
• Extra Underwear
• Extra Socks
• Swim Suit (One word: waterslides)
• Shower Shoes
• Face Gems and Glitter (Extra points to you if you bring biodegradable glitter!)
• Sunglasses (2 pairs in case you lose one)

FOOD

• WATER WATER WATER
• Cooler
• Ice
• Alcohol (If you’re 21+)
• Non-perishable food
• Paper Towels
• Vitamins/Prescriptions
• Trash Bags and Brown Bags (For recycling) 
• Dish Soap 
• Eco-friendly Cutlery and Dishes
• Propane Stove

TOILETRIES

• Shampoo, Conditioner, and Soap
• Towel
• Makeup 
• Makeup Remover
• Disinfectant Wipes
• Brush/Comb
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• Contact Solution
• Sunscreen
• Tampons and Pads
• Toilet Paper
• Hand Sanitizer 
• Hair Ties
• UV Paint/Makeup (It is Nocturnal, after all)

CAMPING TIPS

Camping Tip #1: Keep Your Campsite Fun, Functional, and Unique

Part of the camping festivities is decorating your site to not only reflect the style of your squad, but also make it easier to find when returning at night! Make sure you don’t bring along any precious items that would be devastating to lose. Anything you forgot to bring can most likely be found at the general store! 

Camping TIp #2: Make Friends with Everyone

This includes your campsite neighbors and the staff. Spread the good vibes and respectful nature to everyone in the campground. It’s much more enjoyable when you have friendly faces see when you wake up in the morning and right before you crash at night. 

Camping Tip #3: Enjoy the Experience

This is Nocturnal’s last year at Glen Helen Regional Park! Make the most of your time and say a proper goodbye to this incredible venue. Make sure you checkout: 

• The Waterpark. Keep yourself cool and relaxed during the heat of the day by taking a dip in the pool or shooting down the waterslides. The water park will be open from 10am–5pm on Saturday & Sunday.

• Yoga sessions. Stretch out your sore muscles and rejuvenate your body with one of the yoga sessions Nocturnal has planned. This year the campground is hosting Rise & Energize Yoga, Intro to Budokon Yoga, Chakra Balancing, and Awake & Align Yoga. 
• Arts & Crafts. Forgot your kandi or want to make new camping cuffs? Attend one of the kandi workshops, art studio classes, or arts & crafts events to express your festival creativity. 
• Silent Discos. Just because the festival ends at midnight this year doesn’t mean you have to stop partying. Keep the good vibes goin’ at the two silent discos Nocturnal has lined up, Sleepless Safari and Racoon Lagoon. Both discos will be open from 12am-6am Saturday & 12am-3am Sunday. 
• Friday Full Moon Pre-Party. Looks like this Friday the 13th is your lucky day. Kickstart the Nocturnal festivities by dancing under the light of the full moon at the Parliament Art Car. This year’s Pre-Party setlist has already dropped (check Nocturnal’s IG) and features amazing artists like Champagne Drip, Dr. Fresch, and SAYMYNAME. The beats will be bumping until midnight and then the party will convert into a silent disco until 2:30am. 

Start prepping your camping essentials and mentally prepare yourself to say thank you and goodbye to Glen Helen! Keep in mind the general rules and objects allowed and not allowed into the campground. Can’t wait to groove with you all under the full moon! 

2. Use the Right Kind of Baggage

There’s no question that bags are a must for long festivals, especially when dealing with the various elements mother nature likes to throw at us. Choosing the right kind of pack can make or break your experience.

If you’re a rave mom and like to have a lot of essential items to help out your fam, you’re in luck. There are quite a few anti-theft bags created specifically for festivals—fully equipped with water containers and dazzling aesthetics. The key feature these bags hold is the zipper located against your back. This makes it near impossible for thieves to sneak their hand in your belongings without you noticing.

Bringing only a few items with you? Opt into the fabulous fanny pack look. Not only is this another perfect accessory for your festival ‘fit, it also keeps your items more secure when strapped to the front of your body. Place the pack’s strap through your belt loops for extra security!

Check out stellar fanny packs options, like this, savormeditation has to choose from!

3. Store Your Valuables in Your Bag's Inner Pockets 

If you don’t want to dip back into your bank account for a new theft-proof bag purchase, there are ways to secure your valuables in the bag you currently have.

First things first, make sure the backpack you’re bringing into the festival is durable and can’t easily be sliced through. I’ve heard way too many horror stories of people bringing in thin bags only to find giant holes in them at the end of the night.

If you, like me, have a regular bag with outside facing zippers, be mindful of the way you store the items you bring into the venue. Keep your ID, debit/credit cards, cash, car keys, portable charger, and other top valuables in your inner most pocket! This is the hardest pocket to access, and while you may be slightly irritated by the extra few seconds it takes you to take them out when buying merch, you’ll be much happier knowing you have them at the end of the night. Keep items you know you’ll need and are more easily replaceable in the front pockets.

Plus, if you keep your items sorted out you’ll have fewer panicked moments where you can’t remember where you put something in your bag.

4. Use a Lanyard

If you’re someone who only brings the essentials with them but lack pockets for easy storage, lanyards are the perfect backpack substitute.

What’s better than having everything you need wrapped around your neck? Quite a few of these old school keychains come with attached compartments you can easily slip your phone into. For extra storage space, keep your ID and cash inside your phone case so you have everything wrapped into one.

While your valuables may be in plain sight, it’s a lot harder for thieves to target your lanyard if your items are always in your view—just make sure you don’t fling them off while headbanging!

5. Rent a Locker

When all else fails, rent a locker.

If you are carrying more than the normal amount of items, don’t have a proper bag, or don’t want to worry about losing anything important—the lockers are here to help. Most festivals (if not all) have lockers for rent, both online and when you arrive.

Lockers provide a solution to many more problems than theft. Need a place to keep your phone while it charges? Locker. Don’t want to carry around the merch you just scored? Locker. Need a designated meet up place for your crew? Lockers.

It may be an extra fee you weren’t planning on paying, but it might be worth the peace of mind knowing your stuff is secure.

Keeping yourself and your valuables safe and secure is an essential part of keeping the good vibes rolling throughout the festival weekend. If you have any tips for avoiding theft at festivals that weren’t mentioned here, sound off in the comments!