Written by Rebecca Hollman
Photos by Steph Port, Patrick Hughes, Tara Gracer, Josh Skolnik
Nestled in the enchanting landscape of the Suwannee Music Park, Hulaween is not just another music festival; it’s a vibrant celebration of community, creativity, and unforgettable experiences. From October 24-27, 2024, thousands of attendees gathered to immerse themselves in a weekend filled with incredible performances, stunning art installations, and a sense of connection that only Hulaween can foster.
Musical Delights
The highlight of the festival was undoubtedly the world debut of The Bobby Weir Incident, a collaboration between the legendary Bobby Weir and The String Cheese Incident. Their two-set performance at The Meadows Stage on Sunday was a powerful tribute to Phil Lesh’s legacy, blending classic sounds with fresh creativity.
Saturday saw The String Cheese Incident embrace the festival theme, “Weir’d Science,” with a unique performance titled “How Weird,” featuring the quirky addition of Howard The Pig. Adding to the excitement, Sublime made their long-awaited Hulaween debut, with original members Eric and Bud performing alongside Bradley Nowell’s son. The energy was electric, and the crowd sang along to every classic hit. They even covered Scarlet Begonias by Grateful Dead in true Sublime fashion.
Among other noteworthy performances, Tipper delivered one of his final festival sets at The Hallows Stage, leaving fans in awe of his musical prowess. New headliners like Killer Mike, Black Pumas, Nora En Pure, and Chase & Status brought fresh sounds, while Marc Brownstein of The Disco Biscuits took the stage as DJ Brownie, showing off his versatility.
Introducing the DEF OFF LIMITS Stage
One of the most exciting highlights of Hulaween 2024 was the debut of the DEF OFF LIMITS stage, a groundbreaking addition that redefined the festival experience. Featuring a cutting-edge Funktion One sound system and stunning Incendia pyro effects, the stage became a focal point for unforgettable performances and surprise sets. Attendees were treated to exhilarating back-to-back sets from artists like Chris Lake, Levity b2b Eater, and Ravenscoon, creating a buzz that rippled through the crowd.
The DEF brand, based in Atlanta, has made a name for itself as a leader in the electronic music scene, known for curating immersive events that blend music, art, and innovation. Their commitment to pushing creative boundaries is evident in their productions, and the OFF LIMITS stage at Hulaween was a perfect extension of that vision. The stage not only showcased top-tier talent but also fostered an environment where artistry and technology converged, enhancing the overall festival experience.
As festival-goers danced beneath the vibrant lights and thrilling pyrotechnics, it was clear that the OFF LIMITS stage would become a cherished memory of Hulaween 2024, embodying the spirit of creativity and excitement that defines the DEF brand.
A Journey Through Spirit Lake
Spirit Lake was transformed into an artistic haven, showcasing over 40 mesmerizing installations from talented sculptors, fire and metal workers, painters, and digital artists. Each piece told a story, inviting festival-goers to explore themes of nature, community, and the ethereal. The vibrant colors and intricate designs created a visually stunning landscape that seemed to pulse with energy.
The daily projection mapping shows by Jasper and Shelby Mosher were particularly enchanting, adding a magical touch to the already captivating environment. As night fell, the art installations came alive with light, casting enchanting shadows and patterns that danced across the grounds. These projections not only enhanced the beauty of the artworks but also engaged the audience, creating a sense of immersion that pulled you into the heart of Spirit Lake.
Wandering through this artistic wonderland felt like stepping into a dream, with every corner revealing something new and unexpected. From interactive sculptures that invited participation to towering installations that inspired awe, there was always something to discover.
The presence of talented artists engaging with festival-goers added a personal touch, allowing attendees to connect with the creators behind the art. This interaction fostered a sense of community and collaboration, reminding everyone that art is not just to be viewed but also experienced. Spirit Lake was more than just an art installation; it was a living, breathing space that celebrated creativity in all its forms, making it one of the festival’s most beloved attractions.
Community and Connection
What truly sets Hulaween apart is the sense of community that permeates the festival. From the friendly faces in the crowd to the inclusive vibe of the workshops, it’s clear that Hulaween is more than just a music event—it’s a gathering of like-minded souls. The workshops offered everything from yoga sessions to creative arts, fostering connections and inspiring collaboration among attendees. I attended a dance workshop that not only got my heart racing but also allowed me to meet some incredible people, all while sharing laughs and good vibes.
Chilling by the Suwannee River
One of the most idyllic aspects of Hulaween 2024 was the opportunity to relax by the serene Suwannee River. Festival-goers flocked to the riverbanks to unwind, soak up the sun, and connect with friends in a tranquil setting. The laid-back atmosphere featured hammocks, sunbathing, and refreshing dips in the water, while the sound of live music floated through the air. Spontaneous DJ sets (usually involving riddim) invited everyone to join in, fostering connection with both nature and each other. The river provided a perfect backdrop for memorable day hangouts, beautifully complementing the festival’s unique blend of music, art, and the great outdoors.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Helene and Tropical Storm Milton, which swept through the area in the weeks leading up to the festival, Hulaween 2024 emerged as a testament to resilience and community spirit. The festival organizers worked tirelessly to ensure that the event could proceed safely, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to providing an unforgettable experience.
Attendees arrived with a sense of camaraderie, sharing stories of how the storms had impacted their travels and plans. The festival grounds, while bearing some marks of the storms – including many trees downed, transformed into a vibrant hub of music and art, showcasing the power of community to rally together in difficult times. The Hulaween staff and crew were able to clean up all of the debris and build all of the stages and art installations of Spirit Lake in a sort amount of time so that we could all enjoy the epic-ness that is Hula.
As we danced, celebrated, and honored the music we love, it was clear that Hulaween is more than just a festival; it was a living embodiment of hope and connection, reminding us that even after storms, we can come together to create joy and magic. This resilience made the weekend even more special, as festival-goers embraced every moment with gratitude and enthusiasm.
Remembering Phil Lesh
This year’s Hulaween was particularly poignant as it marked a moment of reflection and celebration for the late Phil Lesh, a founding member of the Grateful Dead. Phil’s influence on the music scene is immeasurable, and his legacy was honored throughout the festival. The tribute during The Bobby Weir Incident set was a heartfelt acknowledgment of Phil’s contributions to music and his role in shaping the festival culture we cherish today.
As artists and fans gathered to celebrate Phil’s life and legacy, it became clear that his spirit lives on through the music he helped create and the community he fostered. The festival served as a beautiful reminder of the connections we share and the power of music to bring us together, even in the face of loss. Phil may be gone, but his music—and the love it inspires—will continue to resonate in our hearts and at events like Hulaween for years to come.
Final Thoughts
As I packed my bags and prepared to leave Hulaween, I couldn’t help but reflect on the magic of the weekend. The combination of incredible music, stunning art, and the warmth of the community created an experience that felt both refreshing and rejuvenating. Hulaween is a festival that not only celebrates music but also embraces creativity and connection in a truly special way. I can’t wait for next year’s adventure—count me in for another unforgettable journey through the wonderland that is Hulaween!