A Weekend to Remember
With summer closely approaching and spring in full swing, there are many things to look forward to in the coming months: longer days and shorter nights, flowers galore, warmer temperatures, the list goes on. In my opinion the greatest has to be the start of music festival season, and what better way to ring in this glorious time of year than at Lightning in a Bottle Arts and Music Festival in Bradley, California. The LA-based festival organizers, The Do Lab, showcase their annual festival at Lake San Antonio over Memorial Day weekend, May 23rd-May 28th. Festival-goers are free to choose from a multitude of experiences ranging from talks and discussions, food and wellness workshops, yoga and meditation classes, and exploring the beautiful lakeside venue. Of course there’s also the variety of delicious food and drinks vendors offer on-site. Discover more in this exclusive Festpop article Lightning in a Bottle: A Festival of Learning, Culture & Music.
Let’s not forget the stacked lineup that will be sure to have you boogieing on the dance floor all night, with musical talents ranging from the funky beats of Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals, to the mysterious vocals of Zhu, and the groovy-heavy house stylings of Walker & Royce. Other performances include MK, Nicole Moudaber, The Black Madonna, Beats Antique, Will Clarke, Emancipator, Nao, Sofi Tukker and so much more!
How to Get There
Now let’s get to the real question I’m sure you all have. How do I prepare myself for one of the most enlightening, transformative, and exhilarating weekends of my life? Worry not my friend. I can provide you with all the knowledge you will need to have a safe, comfortable, and most importantly, an amazing weekend at Lightning in a Bottle.
Let’s begin with how to get there. Carpooling with your festie fam and a car camping pass are a must. Personally, my group and I plan on caravaning to the venue at the crack of dawn on Thursday. This way we get there when the gates open and are able to lock down a prime camping spot. Close-ish to the entrance, but also close-ish to all the festivities. Keep in mind that the venue has only one entrance and exit. So keeping a tab on the time on the last day will save you time, tears, and the heartbreak of sitting in traffic. Trust me, dealing with the sea of glittery, sweaty, fellow festival-goers also trying to leave is not ideal.
What to Bring
Next, what to bring. Now, this part can get a bit overwhelming. Do I need a big furry coat? A swimsuit? Half my closet? My dog? The answer is yes. Okay, maybe not your dog. But honestly, you can never be too prepared when packing for a music festival. The weather varies pretty drastically in the central valley. Temperatures can range anywhere from the low 90’s during the day, and the high 40’s at night. So bringing a diverse wardrobe is an absolute must.
Also, don’t be afraid to express yourself with your wardrobe. Yes, guys, I’m calling you out. Lightning in a Bottle is a festival where openness, creativity, and self-expression are celebrated and embraced. So maybe rethink wearing your cargo shorts with 15 different pockets, knee-high socks, t-shirt and old sweaty bandana and mix it up! Wear that kimono, work that onesie, strut those butterfly wings. Anything goes. You’ll only end up making new friends because good vibes attract good lives.
Lastly, enjoy the festival! This weekend is all about embracing the sense of community and enjoying human emotions at its happiest. So dance like nobody’s watching, befriend that hippie by the porta potty, and order those loaded baked potato tots, because it’s Lightning in a Bottle. You deserve it.
Checklist
Below is a basic list of camping necessities which will ensure you are as comfortable as possible while camping.
Sleeping:
- Tent
- Sleeping bags, blankets, pillows, sheets
- Air mattress, air pump, batteries
- Tarps
Cleaning:
- All-purpose, biodegradable soap
- Cleaning spray
- Paper towels
- Sponge
- Trash bags
- Plastic baggies
- Laundry bag
Miscellaneous:
- Tapestries
- Folding tables
- Chairs
- Flashlights, string lights, lanterns
- Coolers
- Portable charger and cords
- Umbrella
- Bungee Cords
- Football, frisbee etc.
- Games like Spike Ball or Corn Hole
- Hammock
Toiletries:
- Sunscreen
- Solar shower
- Shampoo/conditioner
- Toothbrush/toothpaste/mouthwash
- Towels
- Flip flops
- Wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper
- Medication for allergies, pain, headaches, etc.
- Lip balm
- Gum
Drinking:
- Cups
- CamelBak or refillable water bottle
- Gallons of water
- Copious amounts of alcohol (handles, beers, wine bags)
- Ping pong balls
- Mixers
Adam Lange, FestPop Staff Writer
