Hulaween is a captivating music festival that continues to grace the lush landscapes of Live Oak, Florida. This is an enchanting event that brings together music, art, and a dash of Halloween magic. Hulaween found its home in the serene Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, nestled in the heart of Live Oak. The park’s oak-lined riverbanks, sprawling meadows, and mystical cypress forest provided the perfect backdrop for this unique gathering.
Music enthusiasts rejoice at the diverse lineup, a harmonious blend of genres, including jam bands, electronic dance music, funk, and more. From celebrated acts to rising stars, Hulaween consistently delivers an eclectic musical experience.
Hulaween is more than just a music festival; it’s an immersive visual spectacle. Attendees are treated to stunning art installations, live painters, and captivating stage setups. With a Halloween theme running through the festival, it’s a place where creative costumes reign supreme.
For many festival-goers, camping under the stars is an integral part of the experience. The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park offers a range of camping options, from the rustic to the more luxurious RV sites.
Beyond the music, Hulaween provides an array of workshops, yoga sessions, and interactive activities. These sessions span various topics, including sustainability, art, and holistic wellness.
The festival’s proximity to Halloween infuses a playful spirit, encouraging attendees to don elaborate costumes. Costume contests are a highlight of the event.
When hunger strikes, a world of flavors awaits at the festival’s food vendors. Attendees can savor international and local cuisine, all while exploring craft vendors offering clothing, art, and more.
Hulaween isn’t just about music and merriment; it also champions sustainability and eco-conscious practices. Festival-goers are encouraged to reduce waste, recycle, and take part in various environmental initiatives.
As the sun sets over the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, attendees can continue to enjoy the natural beauty, with activities like swimming, hiking, and canoeing available.
Top 10 Artists to See At Hulaween This Year
- Pretty Lights (x2)– Is celebrated for his genre-blending music, incorporating elements of hip-hop, dubstep, glitch, and soul, marked by intricate samples, glitchy beats, and captivating melodies. Born in Colorado, Derek Smith developed a deep passion for music early in life, setting the stage for his musical journey. His 2006 debut album, “Taking Up Your Precious Time,” began his rise to fame, while “Filling Up the City Skies” in 2008 solidified his unique sound. In 2017, Pretty Lights took a touring hiatus but continued creating music, collaborating, and focusing on philanthropic endeavors. This year is their first year back since, making this the number one must-see at Hulaween this year!
2. String Cheese Incident (x6)– This American jam band has created a musical journey that transcends traditional boundaries. At its core, the band comprises Michael Kang, Bill Nershi, Keith Moseley, Michael Travis, Kyle Hollingsworth, and Jason Hann. Their story began in 1993, in the charming town of Crested Butte, Colorado. Their hallmark is improvisation, blending a rich tapestry of genres like bluegrass, rock, funk, and even electronic influences. Their live performances are truly captivating. Their journey is marked by a collection of studio and live albums. Among them, “Untying the Not,” “One Step Closer,” and “SCI Fidelity” showcase their musical prowess. They will be playing 6 sets total this year so there is plenty of opportunities to catch their set.
3. Joe Russos Almost Dead– This band, often abbreviated as JRAD, is a vibrant and dynamic group that has made waves in the world of live music. With their innovative approach to performing the iconic catalog of the Grateful Dead, they’ve captured the hearts and ears of fans across the globe. What sets Joe Russo’s Almost Dead apart is their approach to the music of the Grateful Dead. Instead of merely covering the songs, they infuse their performances with improvisational elements, adding their own unique interpretation to the Grateful Dead’s classic tunes. The result is a fresh and invigorating take on the iconic catalog, giving fans a new perspective on these timeless songs. Joe Russo’s Almost Dead was formed in 2013 and is a supergroup of sorts, composed of incredibly talented and well-respected musicians in their own right. At its core, the band features Joe Russo on drums, hence the name. Russo, known for his work with Furthur and Benevento/Russo Duo, brings a formidable rhythmic foundation to the group. He’s joined by an impressive cast of characters, including Tom Hamilton on guitar and vocals, Dave Dreiwitz on bass, Marco Benevento on keyboard, and Scott Metzger on guitar and vocals. Together, they create a sonic tapestry that is as intricate as it is energetic. If you’re looking for some new-time Nostalgia, this is a must-see!
4. Lettuce– Is celebrated for its funky, soulful, and highly infectious sound. They are at the forefront of the “funk revival” movement, drawing inspiration from classic funk, jazz, and R&B while adding their modern, improvisational twist. Lettuce was born in the late 1990s in Boston, Massachusetts. The band’s core members include Erick “Jesus” Coomes (bass), Adam “Shmeeans” Smirnoff (guitar), Adam Deitch (drums), Neal Evans (keyboards), Ryan Zoidis (saxophone), and Eric “Benny” Bloom (trumpet). This formidable lineup combines incredible talent and creativity. Notable releases include “Rage!” (2008), “Crush” (2015), and “Elevate” (2019). Their studio albums showcase their studio finesse, while their live recordings capture the essence of their electrifying concerts.
5. Pigeons Playing Ping Pong– This band, with their distinctive name and even more unique sound, has captivated audiences with their electrifying performances and contagious energy. Their style is a genre-blending sound, which combines elements of funk, rock, and jam. They are known for their tight grooves, infectious melodies, and unparalleled ability to improvise and engage their audience. The band has released a range of albums, including “Pleasure” (2016), “Pizazz” (2017), and “Presto” (2020). Their studio recordings capture the essence of their exuberant live shows and showcase their studio prowess.
6. Marvel Years– whose real name is Cory Wythe, hails from Vermont, and he has been on a musical voyage since the early 2010s. Drawing inspiration from a wide array of musical styles, including funk, soul, hip-hop, and electronic dance music, he has forged a sound uniquely his own. You can expect his music to be characterized by groovy beats, soulful melodies, and a fusion of various genres. His tracks often feature funky guitar riffs, captivating bass lines, and inventive sampling, creating an irresistible blend that gets audiences moving to the rhythm.
7. Big Wild– Is a dynamic and innovative artist, with a unique approach to electronic music. Big Wild, whose real name is Jackson Stell, has become a standout figure in the music world. He’s known for crafting vivid and emotionally resonant soundscapes and has touched the hearts of every listener. You can expect a captivating blend of electronic, indie, and pop elements, characterized by lush melodies, intricate rhythms, and a vivid sense of storytelling. He masterfully combines live instrumentation with electronic production, creating a unique sonic experience. If you’re looking for some feel-good music, certainly add Big Wild to your festival schedule!
8. Elderbrook– A gifted and versatile musical artist who has made a significant impact in the realm of electronic and dance music. With a unique blend of soulful vocals, innovative soundscapes, and a distinct fusion of genres, Elderbrook, whose real name is Alexander Kotz, has been enchanting audiences worldwide. Hailing from London, England, Elderbrook embarked on his musical journey in the early 2010s. Elderbrook’s music is a rich tapestry of influences, fusing elements of electronic, dance, pop, and soul. What sets him apart is not only his soulful and emotive vocal delivery but also his ability to create intricate electronic productions that serve as the perfect backdrop for his lyrical storytelling.
9. Manic Focus– Whose real name is John “JmaC” McCarten, has captured the hearts of music enthusiasts around the globe. Hailing from Minneapolis, Minnesota, Manic Focus began his musical journey in the late 2000s. His path led him to Chicago, where he found inspiration in the city’s thriving music scene and began to craft his distinctive sound. His music is an eclectic fusion of electronic, funk, hip-hop, and soul. He is celebrated for his intricate and groovy productions, masterful use of sampling, and dedication to delivering high-energy, genre-defying tracks.
10. Eprom– Eprom has carved a unique path, pushing the limits of sound and defying conventional genres. With a captivating blend of experimentalism, bass music, and a knack for sonic innovation, Eprom, whose real name is Alexander Dennis, has left an indelible mark on the electronic music scene. Eprom’s music defies categorization, often described as a fusion of experimental bass music, glitch, and dubstep. His tracks are characterized by intricate sound design, intricate textures, and heavy, distorted beats, creating an electrifying and immersive experience. This performance will be very high energy with a lot of dancing, lasers, and visuals! Be sure to come prepared with water for this one!
Schedule
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