As the clock struck midnight, the haunting winds of Halloween weekend swept through the NOS Event Center, transforming it into a surreal landscape of terror and exhilaration! The Escape Psycho Circus brought thrill-seekers, outcasts, and lovers of the macabre to embrace the chaos within its haunted gates. The night promised not just a show but an unforgettable plunge into a realm where fear and fantasy intertwined, and boy, did it deliver on that promise! Escape Psycho Circus was a Mission Success: all treats and no tricks!
Walking through the ominous entrance was like stepping into a ghostly realm. The atmosphere was electric, pulsing with a thrilling blend of excitement and dread. Five haunting stages awaited, each designed to captivate and mesmerize. The very first stop, the Big Top, set the tone for the evening. This iconic stage vibrated with exhilarating sets that echoed through the night, featuring Marshmellow B2B DJ Snake, Deorro, Sidepiece, and Dimitri Vegas.
Photo Credit: Escape Facebook
Among the unforgettable stages was Sewer District, a hidden enclave pulsing with pyrotechnic eruptions and lasers that lit up the night sky. Another standout feature of Sewer District was the drone light shows oozing into the night sky. This was the place to be, especially when San Holo delivered an unforgettable Wholesome Riddim set. Jessica Audifred whipped the mosh pits into a frenzy, while Nghtmre B2B Peekaboo offered spine-tingling sets that perfectly balanced eerie charm and high-energy beats. As ghosts and ghouls roamed, ATLiens turned heads in their outrageous blow-up bikini costumes. Every performance left attendees breathless, each as chilling as the night air.
Photo Credit: Escape Facebook
The chaos continued to surge through the night, particularly at the Feeding Grounds stage. A single misstep could land you front row with hard-hitting sets from Angerfist, Kayzo, and Dual Damage. The frenetic energy enveloped the crowd, transforming them into erratic prey caught in the crossfire of explosive beats that made hearts race and adrenaline spike. This primal experience unraveled like an untamed beast, all bodies moving as one.
Photo Credit: Escape Facebook
Navigating to The Cage, the uninhibited essence of the underground scene took over. Airrica, Amelie Lens, and Vintage Culture ignited absolute mayhem, their techno beats ripping through the air and captivating the audience. Here, the outcasts of the circus found peace in the shadows. The scorched grounds beneath our feet were a fortress for anarchy.
The clock ticked on and on, except at the Warehouse, where circus history was frozen. Haunting performances from Rossy B2B Pauline Herr, Jawns, and What So Not left the crowd possessed in the once-abandoned storehouse.
Photo Credit: Escape Facebook
The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as fortune tellers revealed fates interwoven with madness. The air was thick with the oozing rhythms undulating from the depths of the event space, drowning attendees in hypnotic beats. Throughout the Escape Psycho Circus, every corner unveiled new surprises and haunted houses designed to evoke spine-chilling jump scares. These thrill rides promised heart-stopping adventures and eerie attractions that made each moment feel alive with suspense. The creaks and groans of the venue further amplified the surreal ambiance.
Didn’t get enough of Escape Psycho Circus? Tickets for Escape Halloween 2026 are on sale now, with a starting down payment of just $9.95, providing a range of experiences including General Admission at $219.95, GA+ at $259.95, and VIP at $339.95. Whether you’re gathering a crew of friends to brave the frights together or jump headfirst into the madness solo, the promise of escape intrigues and entices. Immerse yourself in an enchanting nightmare, where once you step through those haunting gates, you may find yourself wishing the night would never end.
Prepare for a fright all year long with the links below!
The time has arrived, DUSK Music Festival returns to downtown Tucson this weekend, 11/15-11/16, transforming Jácome Plaza into a celebration of music, art, culinary culture, and desert nightlife. Since launching in 2016, the festival has built a reputation for pairing chart-toppers with regional tastemakers, spotlighting local creators across stages, galleries, and interactive buildouts. This year’s lineup spans electronic, alt-pop, hip-hop, and indie, guaranteeing a dynamic soundtrack under Arizona’s fall skies.
When festival gates open, downtown Tucson transforms into a multi-stage desert playground. Headliners and rising stars deliver a relentless mix of tunes, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Fans can move between shimmering melodies and earth-shaking drops across three open-air stages. Doors open at 2:30 PM each day. There are many performers, so we highly recommend arriving early. The event ends at 11:00 PM PT on both nights of the festival.
However, DUSK’s immersive art and culinary experiences extend beyond just the music. Collaborations with the University of Arizona’s School of Art and Tucson ARTS bring sculptures, lighting, and digital works to life. Local chefs and food trucks serve inventive, flavorful dishes to keep fans energized between sets. For added fun, Tucson PLAYS returns with life-sized games like cornhole, ping pong, and ladderball, while Cobra Arcade Tucson offers a retro tent filled with classic arcade machines.
SET TIMES
DUSK MUSIC FESTIVAL PRE-PARTIES
Kick off the weekend early with back-to-back pre-parties. Thursday, November 13th features LAERZ on the decks, bringing deep basslines and infectious rhythms to Hotel Congress. Friday, the official DUSK Kickoff Party takes over Sunset Glass Gallery from 6–9 PM. Trulieve, Dime Industries, Ogeez, and Tucson Doobie host the gathering. Catch live glass blowing, vibrant art, playful games, and electric community energy, while Muncheez serves up killer tacos and burgers. This 21+ gathering sets the perfect tone for the weekend ahead.
OFFICIAL AFTERPARTIES
Lucky for you, the party doesn’t stop when DUSK ends. Official after-parties keep the energy alive with ALLEYCVT, jigitiz, Pretty Sweet, Ekonovah, and WHIPPED CREAM. Expect late-night beats, immersive vibes, and nonstop festival energy in intimate, high-energy spaces.
Enhanced experiences are available for fans seeking added comfort. DUSK VIP adds perks including express entry, lounge seating, air-conditioned bathrooms, premium food, front-of-stage access, coat/bag check, and massages. Platinum guests enjoy all VIP benefits plus an elevated lounge and bar, stage-level seating, complimentary beverages (limit five), and a snack buffet to keep energy high throughout the day. Tickets are still available on the official DUSK ticketing website. Grab your crew, layer up for cool desert nights, and prepare for a weekend of music, art, and unforgettable downtown energy.
Suwannee Hulaween 2025 marked another spellbinding Halloween weekend filled with music, art, and community. Now in its twelfth year, the festival honored the soil it grew from while evolving into a sprawling showcase of creativity. Despite a few growing pains and noticeable cutbacks, Hulaween still managed to deliver the kind of immersive, otherworldly experience that keeps fans returning to the Spirit of the Suwannee.
Music & Performances
Hulaween 2025’s lineup hit a sweet spot for both jam loyalists and bass enthusiasts, blending improvisational energy with sub-shaking intensity. This year’s programming leaned funky, psychedelic, and particularly bass-forward; even the house and indie acts pulsed with a heavy low-end. From the swampy echoes of jam improvisation to the deep rumble of modern bass music, the weekend’s soundtrack felt cohesive yet wildly diverse.
The slate catered to nearly every flavor of electronic fan: dubstep, trap, house, UKG, DnB, and techno all had their moment. Heavyweights like Zeds Dead, Illenium, and the cosmic LSZEE project (LSDREAM & CloZee) delivered cinematic highs, while Tape B and Mersiv proved unstoppable with both solo sets and a mindblowing b2b. Disco Lines, Sammy Virji, and DJ Pee .Wee (Anderson .Paak) brought a dose of groove to balance the grit. On the live side, The String Cheese Incident returned home with six outlandish extravaganzas, Goose’s two-part set drew massive crowds, and acts like Glass Beams, Parcels, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, and The Disco Biscuits added fresh texture to the mix.
Late nights belonged to DEF OFF LIMITS, where the programming once again proved legendary. High-octane surprise sets kept fans guessing with Tape B b2b Disco Lines on Thursday, YDG’s extended burner into Niles on Friday, Mary Droppins’ Saturday takeover, and Rudashi’s Sunday closer, sparking fresh adrenaline just when the forest seemed ready to rest.
Strong scheduling made the weekend flow effortlessly, with minimal genre overlap and enough breathing room for fans to catch key sets without sprinting across the park. Even before the official stages powered down, after-hours renegades carried the torch, lighting up the Suwannee woods with spontaneous sound systems and that unmistakable Hula energy that refuses to fade.
Art & Production
While Hulaween 2025 dazzled musically, its production revealed a shift in priorities. The festival’s heavy-hitting lineup seemed to come at the expense of some of the immersive visual flourishes that have long defined the Suwannee experience. Front and center was the replacement of the storied wooden HULA letters with cheap inflatables, a major gripe for many festival faithful.
The AMP and Spirit Lake stages received upgraded LED walls—a welcome sight for some bass enthusiasts—but at what cost? The AMP also received new LED floor lighting for safe late-night movement through the crowd; however, the stark white glare clashed with the psychedelic atmosphere. Its familiar sun-sail canopy was absent, and lush tree cover was noticeably diminished. Audio quality, too, faltered compared to previous years. While the festival has never been known for pristine sound, several dead zones emerged at Spirit Lake, OFF LIMITS, and AMP—a surprising downgrade for an event on the rise.
Spirit Lake
As always, Spirit Lake served as the immersive heart of Hulaween—the place where the festival truly came to life. By day it was an idyllic escape, but after dark, it transformed into a living canvas of light, fire, and sound. This year’s theme, The Radiant Veil: The Dance of Light and Shadow, encapsulated the creative vision of Spirit Lake Experience Director and META CEO Justin Bolognino. Exploring contrast, balance, and the interplay between seen and unseen, the concept reflects the dance he underscored in our previous interview.
While it’s clear that budget cuts shaped the layout, Spirit Lake remained a moss-draped dreamscape with a rich blend of returning landmarks and new creations. Reimagined beneath The Radiant Veil, familiar icons reappeared: Paul Kuhn’s spooky The Witch, The Ferryman, and Ogres + Rock Hands; Thomas Dambo’s towering Spider and playful Pineapple Hands; Duende Builds’ transportive Birdhouse Village; Ania Amador’s vibrant Mural Maze; the serene Wandering Lion Tea Sanctuary; and Lost Creations’ revamped House of Lost. The DEF Off Limits 360-stage, created by Duende, RÜTS, and Bolognino, returned after its standout debut in 2024, once again merging art and performance into an all-encompassing late-night experience. The ever-popular Incendia installation roared brighter than ever with its flame jets and live performers, while Electric Dream Machine’s projection mapping tied the entire space together with vivid motion and color.
Fresh additions expanded Spirit Lake’s visual narrative. The Spider’s Eggs cleverly continued the story of Dambo’s aging Spider installation, where Fiddlehead—a monolith Fibonacci fern sculpture by Bolognino and RÜTS, built by Majestix Design—became the glowing new portal to the art hub. Other highlights included Foxlight Labs’ infinite SYNTHesthesia Crystals, PDA Woodwork’s interactive TeeterMAZE, Matt Elson’s reflective Radiance and Tanzer, Matt Bosch’s haunting Blood Ov Babalon, and LumaVoid Theatre’s shadow-puppet performances with Rabbit Foot Puppetry and Dragon Box Theatre.
The signature nightly projection show evolved across four acts—From Light, Into Shadow, The Radiant Veil, and The Dance of Light and Shadow—and introduced The Oracle of Spirit Lake, an interactive experience that invited guests to participate rather than just observe.
Still, many longtime attendees felt the changes. Spirit Lake no longer wrapped fully around the water, and there were fewer installations overall. We particularly missed Essi Rhodes and Ruben Robles’ Chatterpillars, Carsten Thue’s Alien Operation Tech, and the Oasis. The reduced footprint not only left attendees with less room to get lost exploring but also created congestion and increased dust from foot traffic. Yet despite the cutbacks, the creative team succeeded in preserving the mystique that defines Spirit Lake. Proof that even under constraint, Hulaween’s heart still beats vividly in the glow of the lake.
Vibe & Community
For all its visual spectacle, what truly defines Hulaween is its people. Capped at around 20,000 attendees, the festival maintains an intimacy that’s increasingly rare at large-scale events. This year’s crowd skewed slightly younger than in years past, yet still reflected the seasoned community spirit that’s been cultivated over a decade at the Spirit of the Suwannee. Veterans mingled with newcomers in a space that encouraged curiosity, generosity, and genuine connection—a place where festival culture isn’t just practiced but passed down.
The ethos of kindness was everywhere: shared shade, offered drinks, borrowed tools. One Lost & Found employee reported more than 50 phones returned in one day and a wallet holding $200 cash reunited with its rightful owner, untouched. It’s the kind of place where strangers trade handmade treasures and trinkets just to make each other smile. First-time attendees noted how safe and accepted they felt, and longtime Hulaweenies seemed committed to ensuring the sense of community endures.
Large, creative camps dotted the forest, each one a micro community pulsing with music and open doors. And, as always, Halloween brought out the collective playfulness that sets Hulaween apart—elaborate costumes, glowing accessories, and themed group outfits that made every stroll feel like its own parade.
At its core, Hulaween’s magic lies not only in the art or the lineup but in this culture of care. It’s a place where the spirit of the festival extends far beyond the stages—where kindness, creativity, and connection remain the most essential acts of all.
Site & Layout
Set beneath the moss-draped oaks of the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, Hulaween continues to benefit from one of the most naturally mystical settings in the festival circuit. The park’s winding paths, riverside clearings, and dense canopy create a sense of discovery that few venues can match.
Operationally, this year showed both growth and growing pains. The festival team was quick to address logistical hiccups—notably improving entry and exit flow after Day 1 and communicating those updates efficiently through app notifications. Still, the early closure of certain paths and exits forced long detours that sometimes doubled or tripled the walk back to camp. Expanded restricted zones, likely for safety or maintenance reasons, added even more distance between key areas.
As previously mentioned, the smaller Spirit Lake area created overcrowding, especially when the other stages had shut down for the night. Conditions were also colder and dustier than usual, causing additional difficulties for attendees. Despite those challenges, the site retained its signature charm—a living blend of wilderness and wonder that remains central to Hulaween’s identity.
Amenities & Services
While Hulaween’s infrastructure remained largely reliable, this year’s amenities revealed some notable inconsistencies. Water stations were the most common complaint, especially within Spirit Lake, which featured only a single refill point near the entrance. Restrooms, on the other hand, were generally well-maintained and frequently serviced, with minimal wait times throughout the weekend, although the lack of handwashing stations stood out. Food and beverage prices rose again but stayed within the expected range for major festivals. However, the early closure of the Meadows and Hallows areas, particularly on Sunday, left attendees with limited access to food, restrooms, and water, reportedly frustrating both guests and vendors.
Accessibility was a bright spot. Multiple ADA viewing platforms provided solid vantage points, and the dedicated ADA campground offered close access to paths, entrances, exits, shuttles, and accessible bathrooms. VIP patrons enjoyed clean restrooms and hot showers, though the removal of the North VIP entrance and subpar catering drew criticism. The GA+ Lounge provided a welcome retreat from the crowds with cleaner facilities, though it lacked upgraded stage viewing—a missed opportunity that made some question the value.
The general store remained well stocked with essentials, and medical tents were clearly mapped and visible across the grounds. Still, the prevailing sentiment among attendees is clear: people are spending more to attend Hulaween and receiving slightly less in return.
Camping & Accommodations
Camping at Hulaween remains one of the festival’s defining pleasures. Unlike many large-scale camping festivals that pop up in empty fields, Hula takes place on real campgrounds complete with working restrooms and showers, a fully stocked general store (lifesaver), and even a café. It even has a river within walking distance of the venue. The setup options are as varied as the crowd itself: cabins nestled in the woods, RV sites transformed into elaborate Halloween displays and mini stages, and open camping areas that operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Without strict space boundaries, campers are free to get creative with their setups, decorating with lights, flags, and inflatables that turn the grounds into a glowing nighttime village. That flexibility comes with a shared sense of respect—neighbors look out for one another, creating small communities that reflect the wider festival’s spirit of generosity and connection.
Cooler weather this year added a new challenge but also a bit of charm. Campfires became gathering spots, adding warmth and comfort to late-night conversations. Close proximity to the festival grounds made returning to camp easy, reinforcing what many attendees already know: camping is an essential part of the experience.
Transportation & Access
Arrival at Hulaween was slower than usual this year, with some attendees waiting over an hour to enter the campgrounds on Wednesday and Thursday. While the delay tested patience, it was still within reason for a festival of this scale. Shuttles from the grounds to off-site parking were also available with updated schedules posted and communicated efficiently.
Security, however, proved inconsistent. Enforcement varied by time of day and by entrance, leading to uneven experiences: some attendees breezed through with friendly interactions and fist bumps, while others encountered stricter checks or hostility. Totems were accepted at one gate and rejected at another, creating confusion and frustration.
Safety & Sustainability
Hulaween is one of the safer, more easygoing festivals on the circuit, and this year largely upheld that standard. The atmosphere throughout the weekend was relaxed and respectful, with most attendees looking out for one another. Security presence was visible but not overbearing. In one incident, we witnessed several guards subdue an aggressive attendee, a reminder of how quickly crowd management can shift.
On the sustainability side, Hulaween continues to make meaningful efforts through its Green Team initiative, which focuses on reducing waste, diverting recyclables and compostables from landfills, and educating attendees on responsible disposal. Many festivalgoers embraced that ethos, bringing refillable bottles and hydropacks to minimize single-use waste. The art installations themselves reflected a similar environmental consciousness, with many constructed from natural or locally sourced materials.
Overall Experience
Hulaween remains one of the most magical Halloween experiences in the country, a festival where music, art, nature, and whimsy converge. It’s a place that still captures that rare blend of intimacy and adventure, where the crowd feels like a community rather than a mass of strangers.
Musically, 2025 was top tier. Standout sets from Sammy Virji, Tape B b2b Disco Lines, Zeds Dead, and Parcels embodied the festival’s dynamic range. The lineup proved that Hula can continue to evolve without losing its soul.
Yet, for longtime attendees, this year also underscored growing concerns. Rising ticket and on-site prices left many feeling they were paying more and receiving less, and the noticeable cutbacks in art and decor chipped away at the festival’s signature. To returning fans, the immersive layer that transforms Suwannee into a storybook world felt diminished.
Still, Hulaween’s essence shone through. Its perfect venue, strong sense of community, and enduring character make it unlike any other festival in the country. One can only hope that organizers take the feedback to heart and reinvest in the creative spaces that define this event’s magic. Because when Hulaween leans into what it does best, it remains nothing short of extraordinary.
A sinister sound pierces the stillness of the night, sending shivers down the spines of all who wander into the shadows. The time has arrived when the freaks and psychos unite; brace yourself for the Psycho Circus. Halloween isn’t just a holiday; it’s two nights of terror as you enter into Escape Psycho Circus… but only if you dare. Haunting echoes ripple through the darkness, from five eerie stages that will keep your heart racing all night.
Step into the Big Top, where carnival lights flicker, masking the terrifying secrets that lurk within.
Allow the beats to engulf you as you lose yourself in Deorro’s chilling soundscapes, a master of eerie crescendos and futuristic beats that will haunt your very soul. A spine-tingling collaboration of Marshmello b2b DJ Snake, a ghastly treat sure to thrill even the bravest of souls. Every circus needs a star, and Korolova is here to mesmerize you with her haunting techno melodies that echo through the night, transforming the Big Top into a realm of spine-chilling dread.
Venture to Feeding Grounds, where giant creepy crawlers lurk, prowling for their next victim.
Get ready to become prey as Dual Damage emerges, eager to indulge in your fear. And if you think you can escape, prepare for the relentless assault of Angerfist’s hardcore sets that slice through the air like knives. The irresistible allure of MADGRRL’s hard techno will keep you entranced, leading you deeper into her dark web.
As the final curtain call approaches, you find yourself in The Warehouse, a realm where the circus’s history lingers and haunts the atmosphere.
In this forsaken space where the party refuses to die, Jawns is here to ensure the madness never ends. From spine-chilling electro and techno to euphoric breaks and jungle, Etari serves it all, fueling the chaos that erupts once you step into the warehouse. With a mastery that can enthrall even the most jaded freaks, Mischluft will leave your bones to rattle.
Wander through the dystopian Sewer District where remnants of fear and darkness seep into your mind.
Stumble through the contamination of sounds, where Nikita, the Wicked will pull you into the depths of despair. And what could be more hair-raising than a special Halloween set from the legendary RL Grime? Beware of the wholesome riddim set by San Holo, sure to attract the sinister riddim rats lurking around the Sewer District.
Welcome to the Realm of Hellfire. Here, born from shadows, the outcasts of the circus gather. Enter The Cage if you dare.
The electrifying drums and guttural bass of Airrica will ensnare you, making it impossible to break free. Feel the inferno ignite as Amelie Lens delivers techno so captivating that you’ll find yourself craving the flames. ONYVAA stands at the nexus of techno’s new movement, merging timeless essence with an ominous vision of what lies ahead.
Set Times
Image Courtesy: Escape Facebook
Image Courtesy: Escape Facebook
Prepare yourself — Escape Psycho Circus awaits… but be warned, once you enter, you may never return. Tickets for Escape Psycho Circus are on sale. See you under the big top. Stay terrified with the links below.
Ghouls and goblins, get ready for the frightfully delightful festival as the Psycho Circus rolls back into town in San Bernardino, California. You can’t escape the Psycho Circus this Halloween! This weekend, expect all treats and no tricks with our Psycho Circus Launch Guide, just as satisfying as full-size candy bars!
Prepare yourself for a night full of screams that echo into the darkness, with music piercing through your already-dead soul. Dance until you rattle your bones! Everything you need for a spine-tingling Halloween weekend is coming together. Don’t forget to wear your most terrifying costume for a frightful and unforgettable adventure!
From the moments when the pre-festival activities kick off to securing transportation that won’t leave you stranded in the haunted fog, you’ll want to plan your every move. Be wary as you navigate the sinister pathways throughout Escape. If you get lost, you may never escape!
Image Courtesy: Escape Facebook
Image Courtesy: Escape Facebook
Image Courtesy: Escape Facebook
Image Courtesy: Escape Facebook
Keep a close watch on ominous happenings. Official set times will guide you through a night filled with dread and enchantment, where music pulses like a heartbeat echoing through the darkness. Each beat draws you deeper into the freakshow, compelling you to dance with the shadows.
Image Courtesy: Escape Facebook
Image Courtesy: Escape Facebook
And don’t forget the haunting afterparties! Friday night features headline sets from Virtual Riot, Ray Volpe, and Eater. Then to continue the afterparty haunt, headline sets on Saturday are provided by JSMN, Eli Brown, Matroda, and Shmitty that promise to keep the terror alive long into the night. But beware: the allure of the party might come with a price you weren’t expecting, but you can only find out at the after parties…
Image Courtesy: Escape Facebook
Gather your courage, summon your bravest friends. Tickets to see if you can survive the fright are still on sale and really take rave to the grave to an all-new meaning. Remember, no one escapes the freak show. Embrace the shadows and haunt into the night with the links below!
Hulaween 2025 is finally here, and we’ve got all the details you need to make the most of it. From the daily schedule and costume themes to shuttle information and festival tips. Everything you need to know is right here. Check out the guide below to make sure you are fully prepared for an unforgettable Halloween weekend at Suwannee Music Park.
As you get ready to enter the magical world of Hulaween, make sure you’re setting yourself up for a good weekend! Download the free official Hulaween app, your all-in-one hub for everything happening at Suwannee. You can check the full lineup, explore festival maps, and build your own custom schedule. Never miss your favorite acts or surprise sets!
Thursday
Thursday starts the weekend off strong with a three-hour set from The String Cheese Incident beginning at 4:10 p.m. on the Meadow Stage. The Hallows Stage’s first set is The Heavy Pets at 3:10 p.m., followed by WonkyWilla, Jade Cicada, Mersiv, Tape B. Mersiv B2B Tape B will close out the stage. The Amphitheatre Stage kicks things off at 3:15 p.m. with Domii and continues with Future Joy, Westend, It’s Murph, and Disco Lines. Spirit Lake opens the entire festival with Colton Bowlin at 2:15 p.m., followed by Anemoia, Sooza Brass Band, The Infamous Stringdusters with Sierra Hull, and two sets from Moe. High Fade will end the night from 1:00–2:00 a.m. Further down past Spirit Lake, the Off Limits Stage starts later in the day. It starts at 6:00 p.m. with Whethan, followed by Nikita the Wicked, Jigitz, and surprise sets from 1:15–2:00 a.m.
For those hanging around the Spirit Lake area, there is plenty of art to see and many activities to enjoy. The lake area is filled with immersive experiences from the early afternoon to late at night. On Thursday, the infamous Lake Show will have multiple viewing times, each lasting an hour. The first begins at 8:15 p.m., followed by 10:00 p.m., and the final showing at 12:00 a.m. The House of Lost kicks off its programming at 5:00 p.m. with Tire Fire, followed by Aviary Productions Presents: Selenatory Paramour, Movie Props, Emo Night by Sparrow, and Dea & Saint.
The Incendiary will feature a variety of aerial and fire performances twice on Thursday. The first is from 8:00 p.m. to 10:15 p.m. and the second from 10:45 p.m. to 1:50 a.m. “Beyond the Veil” will be in between. The Florentina, hosted by Art in Session, offers many educational, creative, and holistic workshops starting at 2:00 p.m. From deliberate creations and manifestation to landscape painting, deep stretching, affirmation bouquets, and more. Many fun experiences are waiting in this part of the lake. Finally, the Lumavoid Theatre will feature the Dragon Box Theatre Puppeteers from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and again from 9:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.
Friday
Friday keeps the momentum going with another packed day of music across every corner of Suwannee. The Meadow Stage starts at 2:30 p.m. with Gilberto 77, followed by Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, two more sets from The String Cheese Incident. Illenium will switch the vibe up and close out the night. The Hallows Stage kicks off at 3:30 p.m. with Disco, followed by SunSquabi, two sets from The Disco Biscuits. It will also feature a late-night performance from Laze from 12:30 a.m. to 1:45 a.m. The Amphitheatre Stage opens at 2:15 p.m. with Burgundee, then continues with Brad Millers, SML, OMA, Digable Planets, and DJ Pee.Wee (Anderson .Paak).
Over at Spirit Lake, music begins at 2:15 p.m. with Pricilla, followed by Annie Dukes, SHIMA, Le Youth, Sultan + Shepard (DJ Set), Tinlicker (DJ Set). Tractor Beam is the closing set from 2:15 a.m. to 3:45 a.m. The Off Limits Stage starts later at 6:30 p.m. with Club Action, followed by Borne, Odd Mob, YDG, and surprise sets from 2:15 a.m. to 2:40 a.m.
For those exploring Spirit Lake, the magic continues with the Lake Show: Into the Shadows, with performances at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m., 1:00 a.m., and 3:00 a.m. The House of Lost begins its programming with Spirit Lake Presents: Seeing Through at 6:30 p.m., followed by Wyatt Norton, Chew, and Zeta. The Incendiary features aerial and fire performances from 8:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., with Inferno Noir taking over from 1:30 a.m. to 2:45 a.m. Over at The Florentina, activations include Homesteading 101, Wire Wrapping, Renew Yin and Self Massage, and a Silent Disco, among others. The Lumavoid Theatre will host the Dragon Box Theatre Puppeteers from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and again from 10:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m.
Saturday
Saturday brings another stacked lineup and plenty of late-night magic. The Meadow Stage starts at 2:45 p.m. with Parlor Greens, followed by Grace Bowers & The Hodge Podge. If you missed them the previous two days, The String Cheese Incident will have two more sets. Parcels will close the stage from 11:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. The Hallows Stage kicks off at 1:45 p.m. with The Light Code by LSDREAM, followed by Balthvs, Arc de Soleil, Franc Moody, and Glass Beams from 10:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
The Amphitheatre Stage opens at 2:45 p.m. with Okayjake B2B STVSH, followed by Sappy, Mary Droppinz, Dr. Fresch. Dubstep favorites Zeds Dead are closing from 11:00 p.m. to 12:15 a.m. Over at Spirit Lake, the day starts at 2:30 p.m. with Afrobeta, then continues with The Snowberries, Captain Midnight Band, Links, and Gorgon City. Dogs in a Pile will be wrapping up from 2:15 a.m. to 3:45 a.m. The Off Limits Stage begins at 7:15 p.m. with Marah, followed by Conducts, Ahadadream, BLOND:ISH, and surprise sets from 2:15 a.m. to 3:40 a.m.
Spirit Lake transforms once again for The Lake Show: The Radiant Veil, with showings at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m., 1:00 a.m., and 3:00 a.m. The House of Lost features FKA Ophelia at 6:15 p.m., the infamous Mass from 12:00 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. Arrive early as doors open at 11:30 p.m. Cardinal takes the stage from 2:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m., and rope performances by Prudence and Dani Jade will end the night. The Incendiary has a variety of fire and aerial performances starting at 8:00 p.m. The Florentina area hosts many activations, including Partner Yoga, Body Painting, Sensory Yoga, Silent Disco, and more. The Lumavoid Theatre has the Dragon Box Theatre Puppeteers performing at 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.
Sunday
Sunday closes out Hulaween 2025 with one final day of music, art, and celebration. The Meadow Stage opens at 12:15 p.m. with Shadowgrass, followed by Molly Tuttle. A three-hour set from Goose will end the weekend in style. The Hallows Stage hosts Gusto String Band from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. and Joe Russo’s Almost Dead from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Amphitheatre Stage begins at 2:30 p.m. with Cole Night, followed by Villager, Strip, and Sammy Virji closing at 6:45 p.m. Spirit Lake opens at 12:30 p.m. with Shannen Lauren Callahan, followed by Wes Pipes, Vincent Antone, Distinct Motive, and Peekaboo. Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country warps things up from 9:15 p.m. to 11:45 p.m. The Off Limits Stage kicks off with Gia Nobody B2B Sol at 4:00 p.m., followed by Max, Alex Wann, and surprise sets from 9:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
The final night at Spirit Lake brings The Lake Show: From Light, with showings at 9:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. The House of Lost begins at 5:30 p.m. with Emily Turnage. She is followed by Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Human Kinda, Hoods, Post Physique, Capybara (Rogerthomas), Hwoofer, and the House of Lost Finale. The Incendiary hosts its last showing of aerial and fire performances at 8:00 p.m. Meanwhile, The Florentina continues with workshops throughout the day. These include Magic Wand Making, Apothecary Gardening, Sustainable Trinkets, and a Featured Artist Panel. Finally, the Lumavoid Theatre presents its last run of the Dragon Box Theatre Puppeteers from 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.
Important Information to Know
The toll and box office hours run Tuesday (2:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m.), Wednesday through Saturday (8:00 a.m.–12:00 a.m.), and Sunday (8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.). If you need to pick up your tickets, plan your arrival accordingly. Venue gates open at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, and 12:00 p.m. on Sunday.
When you arrive at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, be ready to show your signed SOSMP park waiver. It is required for entry this year. Once you are in, there are medical and security teams stationed throughout the grounds to help if anything comes up. If you experience an emergency on-site, call 734-707-9440 for immediate assistance.
Like previous years’ bag policies, large bags must be clear. Smaller ones such as drawstring bags, hydration packs, and fanny packs do not have to be see-through. You can also bring one factory-sealed water bottle or an empty refillable bottle up to one gallon. This will make staying hydrated easy all weekend.
For those flying into the Jacksonville International Airport, do not forget to book your shuttle ahead of time. There are both one-way and round-trip options available, with shuttles leaving Jacksonville for Hula at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., and returning from Hula to Jacksonville at 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m..
Lastly, let’s talk weather because it is looking like it will be an amazing weekend! Expect sunny skies with highs in the upper 60s to low 70s and chilly nights in the 40s and 50s. Pack your sweatshirts and sweatpants for those late-night sets. Bring a few cozy blankets for when you are back at camp, and you will be all set.
As the Spirit of the Suwannee comes alive once again, Hulaween 2025 is shaping up to be another unforgettable weekend of music, art, and magic. Whether you are there for the late-night sets, the mesmerizing art at Spirit Lake, or the community that makes this festival feel like home, one thing is certain: this is where memories are made. Get ready to dance through the weird and wonderful world of Hulaween!
Another day closer to Hulaween 2025, and another artist you can’t miss: Future Joy. The DJ power couple, Emily Cooper and Zach Simms, are bringing their vibrant, high-energy sets to Suwannee Music Park this weekend. Returning for their fifth Hula performance, this year’s set marks their debut on the fan-favorite Amphitheater Stage, where fans can catch them at 4:45 PM on Thursday. They’re unveiling a Toy Story theme this time around, inviting fans to get creative with costumes and join the adventure.
Hailing from St. Petersburg, Florida and Denver, Colorado, Future Joy blends elements of house, funk, drum and bass, jazz, and more with their signature vocals and live instrumentation. Both Cooper and Simms play keys, sing, and DJ, while Simms brings extra funk with tenor, baritone, and bass saxophones. Known for getting the dance floor moving and building genuine connections through music and joy, Future Joy is quickly becoming the soundtrack to elevating both mind and soul.
Future Joy has been on a festival roll, performing at some of the most iconic events across the country. Apart from Hulaween, they’ve taken the stage at Bonnaroo, Joshua Tree, Treefort, Elements, Secret Dreams, Resonate, and more. The duo has also played direct support for artists like Manic Focus, BoomBox, Sunsquabi, The Polish Ambassador, Moon Hooch, and Marvel Years, among others.
To wrap up the summer, they released their debut full-length studio album “NOW” in July, a 13-track journey that reflects their deep love and musical connection as they travel the country performing from their RV. Having recently tied the knot at Joyful Festival in February, that raw emotional energy shines through, giving the album an intimate and heartfelt touch. At its core, “NOW” is also a celebration of living fully in the present moment, capturing the joy, spontaneity, and gratitude that define both their music and their lives.
We can’t wait to catch Future Joy’s signature sax-infused energy at Hulaween this weekend! See you at their set on Thursday, October 30, at 4:45 PM on The Amphitheater Stage.
If you can’t get enough after Suwannee, the music doesn’t stop there! The duo will keep the vibes rolling with upcoming shows at Asheville Music Hall on December 31, Animas City Theatre in Durango, CO on January 17, Sheridan Opera House in Telluride, CO on January 18, Meow Wolf Denver’s Convergence Station on January 23, and Joyful 2026 in St. Petersburg, FL on January 31. Check out their socials below to stay up to date on new music and show announcements!
With Hulaween 2025 only days away, it’s time to spotlight some of the artists who will make this weekend at Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park both haunting and magical—starting with none other than WonkyWilla. Just a year after attending the festival as a fan, he’s now set to make his Hulaween debut on the Hallows Stage from 7:10 to 7:50 p.m. In the midst of his Galactic Circus Tour—which spans over 30 stops across the U.S.—WonkyWilla’s set is one you won’t want to miss.
This has been a breakout year for WonkyWilla. Following his Get Wonked tour and a stacked debut festival season—featuring appearances at Lost Lands, Bass Canyon, Electric Forest, Ubbi Dubbi, Dancefestopia, WAKAAN, ILLfest, Same Same But Different, and Sound Haven—he’s quickly become one of the most exciting new names in bass music. Now, his Galactic Circus Tour brings his wonky and colorful signature sound to iconic venues like Webster Hall (NYC), Showbox (Seattle), Crystal Ballroom (Portland), Gods & Monsters (San Francisco), The Roxy (Los Angeles), and a two-night takeover at Denver’s Ogden Theatre this November.
“This tour is inspired by the magic and chaos of the circus,” said Wonky Willa, “where every moment feels larger than life. I want to bring that same sense of wonder into the WonkyWilla-verse, where it feels like stepping into a twisted sci-fi candy land. My hope is that each night feels like joining the greatest show in the galaxy.”
Beyond his performances, WonkyWilla is channeling his energy into philanthropy. On Wednesday, November 26, he’ll host The Wonksgiving Charity Event at Vulcan Gas Company in Austin, Texas. Partnering with Texas CASA, $2 from each ticket will go toward supporting the organization’s work in providing training, resources, and advocacy for children and families who have experienced abuse and neglect.
Fans can also take part by donating to WonkyWilla’s food and clothing drive, further showcasing his dedication to using music as a force for good. The drive supports local families in need, and those who contribute will be entered to win a signed merch package and two tickets to ILLfest 2026—a perfect way to give back while keeping the festival spirit alive.
“Wonksgiving was inspired by the idea of bringing people together around music” said WonkyWilla, “the same way families gather around the table for the holidays. I wanted to create a show that feels like both a celebration and a homecoming for the community. Beyond the music, we are tying it to charitable initiatives because giving back is at the heart of what this season represents. My hope is that everyone leaves feeling connected, uplifted, and part of something bigger than themselves.”
Grab your tickets for WonkyWilla’s Wonksgiving here.
If you can’t wait until Thursday to get wonky, check out WonkyWilla’s West Coast Wonk Volume 2 on SoundCloud below. The mixtape is currently rolling out, packed with bass-fueled, genre-defying hip-hop flips that capture his signature sound.
And if you’re looking for us on Thursday at 7:10 p.m. at Hulaween, you’ll find us right at the rail for WonkyWilla.
From the moment you stepped in through the gates at Lake Perris, you knew this wasn’t just another music festival — it was a living, breathing world, unfolding in front of you. Over three sunbaked days, Same Same But Different wove together adventures, artistic surprises, and pure communal bliss. What struck me most wasn’t the headliners (though they were stellar) — it was the energy, the curiosity, the countless side quests pulling you in every direction.
The World of SSBD
The festival grounds felt intentionally designed — not just for efficiency, but for discovery. You could wander down a path and suddenly find a hidden art installation shimmering in the trees, a pop-up drum circle, a yoga sound bath, or a random side stage by the water. There was always something happening. That sense of possibility — that you might stumble on a moment you didn’t even know you needed.
And the energy was infectious. People weren’t just showing up to see big names; they were showing up to explore, to dance, to interact. Conversations sprang up at art booths, in line for food, in kayaks floating in the water. Strangers became friends in a matter of minutes.
Beyond the Headliners: The Hidden Gems
Yes, the headliners — LSZEE, Zeds Dead, Dr. Fresch, and others — delivered. Big drops, poignant transitions, festival-scale spectacle. But what I’ll remember longest are the sets from artists I had no idea about before the weekend. Artists whose names were new to me, but whose sounds carried me deep into new moods. Eclectic blends of bass, world rhythms, ambient textures, glitch, and experimental. Those surprise performances kept me on my toes — sometimes I’d wander toward a stage just for curiosity, then stay for an hour, utterly hypnotized.
That diversity is one of SSBD’s greatest strengths. It doesn’t rely on the same formula — it trusts the curators, it trusts the crowd’s spirit of openness.
Floating in Sound: Lake Sessions & Nakey Island
One of the most magical things: enjoying music on the water. The lake stages offered an entirely different atmosphere. Your senses shift — the lap of water, the reflection of light on the surface, the gentle rocking — all blending with the beats. You’d drift by in a float, feel the sand between your toes, and suddenly your body is absorbing music differently.
And then there’s Nakey Island. People dancing freely, removed from the core of the festival, pure joy. It felt like a secret ceremony sometimes. The beats, the bodies, the energy were raw and generous. When the sun dipped low, the vibes there were among the festival’s deepest moments.
Side Quests & Art Everywhere
SSBD doesn’t settle for “main stage plus food trucks.” No — it thrives on side quests. “What’s behind that scrim?” “What’s happening behind that veil?” Every corner offered something unexpected:
Interactive art installations you could walk through, climb on, or trigger with motion
Workshops from flow arts to sound healing to trance yoga
Hidden pop-ups late at night
Beach parties, lakeside chill zones, secret paths
Ambient sound walks, meditation zones, mini performances in secluded pockets
These “mini-worlds” lent texture and depth to the festival. At no point did you feel pinned down; your pace, your path, your experience could wind and branch.
LSDream’s Lightcode Experience
In the midst of all the high energy, one of the most transcendent experiences came from LSDREAM’s Lightcode Sound Bath. As the day was getting started after a night full of dancing, hundreds gathered — some sitting cross-legged, others lying on the grass — to let the frequencies wash over them.
Lightcode wasn’t a “set” in the traditional sense. It was a collective exhale — an invitation to realign, breathe, and tune inward. LSDREAM guided the crowd through waves of ambient tones, cosmic hums, and crystalline synths that felt equal parts ancient and futuristic. The vibrations seemed to ripple through the air itself, mixing with the lake’s reflection and the quiet murmur of nature.
It was surreal to watch festivalgoers — many who had been headbanging hours before — now lying still, eyes closed, hands resting gently on the earth. For sixty minutes, the energy shifted from outward expression to inward connection. When it ended, the crowd rose slowly, glowing. You could feel the stillness in everyone — a shared reset before diving back into the night’s chaos.
Moments like that are what make Same Same But Different truly live up to its name.
The Collective Energy — Your Own Soundtrack
Throughout the festival, what tied everything together was people’s energy. Even during the downtimes — dusk, sunrise, transitions — you could feel chatter, laughter, hums of music somewhere, movement. Nobody sat still too long; even in rest, there was a pulse. The crowd felt participatory, not passive.
You’d catch yourself glancing upward at art pieces overhead, or sidestepping into a glowing tunnel, or being rung into a drum circle you stumbled into. That openness of space, of mind, of willingness — made the whole event richer.
Notable Highlights (Moments That Will Stay)
Watching an unexpected mid-afternoon set by a “small” artist turn into one of my favorite hours
Drifting on a float during a lake set, watching lasers and starlight blend
The whole Nakey Island sunset — dancers, waves, minimal barriers
Discovering an art piece late at night that shifted in light and shadow as you passed
The moment when a little workshop turned into a full jam session
Morning acroyoga on the lake’s edge
Final Impressions
Same Same But Different 2025, for me, was one of the top festival experiences I’ve had. The experience holds together because heart holds it together. It’s a festival that trusts participants to bring their curiosity, their energy, and their willingness to be surprised. I came with friends and left with even more.
If I had to sum it up: it felt less like “going to a festival” and more like “entering a living realm.” A world made of sound, art, water, movement, and connection. And I came out with new favorites, new stories, new friendships, and a renewed sense of what a festival can be.
Untold Festival has announced its return in 2026, taking place from August 6th to 9th. In this announcement, they stated that Cluj-Napoca, Romania, the festival’s home for the last 10 years, will continue to be so.
Just a few months ago, Tiesto blew the audience away with a unique set curated specifically for Untold. He even incorporated traditional Romanian music into his set. This spectacular marathon set lasted three hours and had the crowd dancing until 4:00 am.
Armin Van Burren took the stage the following day, giving the crowd an unforgettable three and a half hour set packed with emotion. At one point, he had to promise himself he wouldn’t cry. He waved the Romanian flag proudly while walking up and down the stage and later handed it to a fan to show his love for his supporters.
Untold also featured surprise performances, including an amazing set from Bosnian-Swedish DJ, Salvatore Ganacci. The main stage was designed to look like a pub during his set, bringing an exciting atmosphere.
Brazilian DJ Alok brought a deeper artistic touch to the festival. His set featured his “Keep Art Human” show. This carried a message about the importance of keeping art human by not allowing artificial intelligence to take over creative fields because “art is not art without soul.” To bring that vision to life, he incorporated a multitude of live dancers on stage. This created a powerful mix of sound and movement in order to spread his message.
Photo Credit: Urban Theory
These are just four of hundreds of amazing performances that went on over the course of the four-day festival in August. Phase two passes to this magical festival go on sale on October 6th. Register here to purchase passes and to get updates about the festival! This will be a festival you won’t want to miss!
