While house still dominates Miami Music Week, Deadbeats has always provided a safe haven for bass fans. Anyone who skipped Deadbeats’ 10th anniversary takeover seriously missed out on one of the best events of the week.
Inside the Mana Wynwood Convention Center, the bass scene didn’t just show up; it completely took over. From the moment you walked under the Deadbeats inflatable arch, it was clear this wasn’t just another Miami Music Week event. Vendors lined the space, merch was for sale, and a low-end rumble of the subwoofers pulsed before the night had even fully begun.
Aych and Overeazy set the tone early with experimental selections that felt like a warm-up for what was coming. Neumonic and Casey Club followed, pulling the crowd deep into the sounds of UKG and dubstep’s UK roots. Both of these sets eased the crowd into the night.
Then came the turning point. Kill Safari brought the energy. High knees and headbanging, with every drop hitting harder than the last. They dropped updated versions of brostep classics, riddim, and even a little bit of Moombahton. When “Propaganda” rang out, trap icon Ricky Remedy appeared on stage. The place erupted in a way that only happens during those blink-and-you-miss-it moments.
Boogie T was originally supposed to perform with Distinct Motive, but he injured his foot in a boating accident the day before. Rohaan replaced him on the lineup and helped bring the deep, minimal, 140 bpm dubstep. By the time LYNY and Peekaboo stepped up, the room was almost at capacity. Their trap-leaning set flipped the energy on its head, giving the crowd just enough groove before diving right back into the chaos.
Levity was added as a last-minute surprise guest to the Zeds Dead and Tape B set. The set unfolded like a highlight reel of everything that’s made Deadbeats a cornerstone of bass music over the last decade. Levity and Tape B also played out their unreleased collab for the first time.
The production matched the moment. The sound system didn’t just hit; the subwoofers made every drop feel physical. Lighting stayed restrained early on, then exploded into full laser-driven intensity during the B3B, transforming the space into something cinematic.
Closing duties fell to Sippy and Mary Droppinz, who somehow met for the first time just 30 minutes before going on stage. You wouldn’t have known it. Their “gremlin hours” set was unpredictable, chaotic, and the perfect sendoff to the night.
Deadbeats didn’t just celebrate 10 years—they reminded everyone why they’ve lasted this long. From OGs to rising names, every corner of bass music was represented. We’re looking forward to what the next 10 years hold for them.
It’s hard to believe a full decade has already passed since Zeds Dead launched their Deadbeats imprint. What’s even more impressive is how much they’ve built in that time. What started as a label has evolved into a full-blown movement. They’ve been championing the next generation of bass music while simultaneously curating some of the most in-demand events in the scene. From their annual takeover of Denver with Deadrocks and the Backyard Jamboree, to First / Second Contact and Bassonic Temple. Deadbeats has become synonymous with community, discovery, and unforgettable live experiences.
Now, they’re bringing that same energy to Miami Music Week with their 10 Year anniversary event. If you’re anywhere near South Florida, this is one you don’t want to miss. Taking place Thursday, March 26th at MANA Wynwood, this Deadbeats event promises a stacked night of back-to-back sets designed to push the boundaries of bass music in every direction. Doors open at 9PM, and from that moment on, it’s non-stop energy until 5AM.
The lineup includes Aych b2b Overeazy, Casey Club b2b Neumonic, Kill Safari (Kill The Noise b2b Bro Safari), Mary Droppinz b2b Sippy, Boogie T b2b Distinct Motive, Peekaboo b2b LYNY, and a can’t-miss closing set from Zeds Dead b2b Tape B. Each pairing brings a unique flavor, blending styles and sounds in a way that you simply won’t get from solo sets. To get ready, Deadbeats has put together a special edition of Deadbeats radio featuring some of their favorite releases over the last ten years.
Beyond the music, this event represents ten years of culture. Ten years of platforming rising talent, shaping the bass landscape, and building a loyal global fanbase. That energy is going to be felt in full force in Wynwood.
Both GA and VIP tickets are still available, but don’t wait too long to grab yours! With a lineup like this and the weight of a 10-year celebration behind it, a sellout feels inevitable. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to lock in your Miami Music Week plans, this is it.
Last week, in an emotional post, Canadian duo Zeds Dead announced their 2026 Journey of a Lifetime Tour. Coming to Mesa Amphitheater September 18 + 19, as well as 11 other outdoor venues across North America, Zeds Dead promises new music, a larger production, and a brand-new stage design to take their fans on another unforgettable journey.
Zeds Dead shared, “‘Journey of a Lifetime’ is one of the first tracks we uploaded to the World Wide Web as Zeds Dead way back in 2009. 17 years later it feels like it was a prophecy. We might have not realized it at the time but we were in fact blasting off into space and leaving behind life as we knew it. This journey is your journey with us as well. We’ve grown up together and celebrated life. We’ve created a world together and the Journey of a Lifetime tour aims to be our most thorough exploration of it. This will be our biggest tour yet as it’s taking place in large outdoor venues and we’re going to make it the best show we can make. It will be the grand finale of everything we’ve been working on. It’s not the end though. To quote something we sampled in a beat once ‘Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.’ We’ll be taking some time off in 2027 so we’re going all out on production, new music, and stage design to bring you a new show that will take you on a magical journey. A journey of a lifetime. See you there.”
In those 17 years, Zeds Dead has truly created one of the strongest fan communities. Their tireless search for new artists and unique style has offered opportunities to feature new talent on their Deadbeats label and their biweekly radio show, Deadbeats Radio, lifting hundreds of artists into the spotlight. In addition, their uniquely curated events like the Backyard Jamboree, Deadbeats presents, and 10+ years of Deadrocks have allowed their community to gather year after year for the shared love of bass music.
Hearing that the duo will be taking a 2027 hiatus is almost bittersweet. On one hand, their music and energy will be missed. But on the other hand, we all know that when artists take a break, they come back better than ever. Look at Griz, for example, who, after his 2-year hiatus, returned with a brand new festival and a lot of new music!
As this tour is promised to be their biggest and most diverse show to date, tickets are sure to sell quickly. We’re also proud to report that Zeds Dead has partnered with PLUS1 so that $1 per ticket goes to supporting organizations expanding access to music education and other creative opportunities, such as providing instruments, software, and related resources.
Presale has already begun with the following timeline for presale and public sale tickets, so set those alarm clocks and calendar reminders: Artist Presale: Wednesday, March 11 at 10 am local time Venue/Promoter Presale: Wednesday, March 11 at 12 pm local time Spotify Presale: Wednesday, March 11 at 2 pm local time All presales end Thursday, March 12 at 8 am local time General Onsale: Thursday, March 12 at 10 am local time.
Beyond Wonderland Chicago returns to the Windy City on June 6 + 7 at Huntington Bank Pavilion for its 3rd year. Its diverse lineup features artists from many different genres, so there is something for everyone. Huntington Bank Pavilion is a stunning venue in the heart of Chicago on Northerly Island. It features a jaw-dropping view of the Chicago Skyline and is easily accessible via public transportation, including the CTA “L” trains.
The lineup features iconic duo Zeds Dead, who released a new album in 2025 titled Return to the Spectrum of Intergalactic Happiness. This unique name is inspired by a dream that DC recalled, where a voice stated that exact phrase. The album blends nostalgia with melodic sounds and features the popular tune “Channel Flipping,” which combines music with an old television flipping through different channels.
The lineup also features Grammy-winning artist Zedd, known for many pop songs including “The Middle,” “Clarity,” and “I Want You to Know.” With his familiar lyrics and energetic production, this will be a performance that gets the entire crowd to sing their hearts out.
Popular producer San Holo is also included in this lineup, featuring his Wholesome Riddim set, which he debuted back at Lost Lands 2024. San Holo broke through with classics “Light” and “We Rise,” which have had a huge impact on the music scene. San Holo is also known for spreading positivity throughout his performances and inspiring the audience while bringing them joy.
This wonderful lineup also features a must-see back-to-back set featuring ACRAZE and Wax Motif, who debuted this b2b at Insomniac’s Project Glow in 2024. Both of these talented artists will work together to craft another unforgettable set. There are so many more talented artists on this lineup, so these acts are just the tip of the iceberg.
Of course, along with a star-studded lineup, Insomniac brings its industry-defining stage design and production teams to create the Beyond Wonderland thematic experiences. Just take a peek at last year’s Mission Success to get an idea of what Beyond Wonderland Chicago is like. If this event sounds like a good time, which it most certainly is, then don’t wait and get your event passes sooner than later for the best deals.
Following the release of their highly acclaimed album Return to the Spectrum of Intergalactic Happiness, the iconic duo, Zeds Dead, returns with another groundbreaking track, “Runaway,” incorporating elements of DnB and future bass. Marking their first release of 2026, they have collaborated with IMANU and vocalist MKLA to create a single that is both dynamic and emotionally charged.
“Runaway” begins with an ethereal yet heavy drop fused with MKLA’s airy, emotional vocals before launching into an adrenaline-fueled second drop that showcases IMANU’s cutting-edge DnB skills. Bridging the two producers’ differing styles, MKLA’s vocals serve as an anchor for the track, creating a timeless sound poised to dominate sets across the electronic circuit in the coming year.
This track follows a career-defining year for Zeds Dead after releasing Return to the Spectrum of Intergalactic Happiness, further cementing their legacy as boundary-defying electronic visionaries. Having spent the last decade carving out their own space within the industry, Zeds Dead are on a roll that seemingly cannot be stopped. They recently sold out their 12th annual Deadrocks event at Colorado’s most iconic venue, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, showcasing their dominance in the industry and unwavering fanbase.
ZEDS DEAD
With a career dating back to 2009, Zeds Dead released their debut album Northern Lights in 2016, and immediately fans knew they were curating something special. That same year, they launched their Deadbeats label, which continues to stand as one of the leading independent labels in dance music. With over 300 releases featuring artists such as REZZ, Subtronics, GRiZ, Levity, and Zeds Dead themselves, it’s clear they remain among the strongest tastemakers in the game right now.
For IMANU, formerly known as Signal, this release follows a series of major creative milestones, including headlining his De Verte showcase in collaboration with Mixmag LAB during ADE this past October. Known for his experimental sound design and genre-defying production, IMANU has earned over 100 million streams across platforms, with collaborations alongside Zeds Dead, Subtronics, and Noisia. Continuing to expand his De Verte events, he is set to embark on a tour across Asia and has also branched into the fashion world with his sustainable brand, 14SAINTDENIS.
Coming off a jam-packed year following the release of their newest album, “Return to the Spectrum of Intergalactic Happiness,” the iconic Canadian duo Zeds Dead is back for the 14th year of their Red Rocks Amphitheatre takeover, Deadrocks. Returning to Colorado on July 2 and 3, they will bring the surreal, cinematic world cultivated through this new album to the stage with new live material and their legendary visuals. The party continues on Saturday, July 4, with their annual Backyard Jamboree hosted at Denver’s Auraria Campus this year.
Deadrocks and the Backyard Jamboree have grown from cult classics into not-to-be-missed events, bringing thousands of music lovers to Colorado each summer. This edition of Deadrocks will feature new stage production, carefully curated support lineups, and immersive fan experiences celebrating over a decade of Zeds Dead. In past years, both nights sold out before the lineup even dropped, so it would be best to secure plans now before it’s too late.
For those ready to keep the party going into the weekend, Zeds Dead’s unforgettable, fan-forward block party, Backyard Jamboree, will take place that Saturday. Stacked with a lineup curated by Zeds Dead and the Deadbeats label, fans can participate in lawn games, a hot dog eating contest, and peruse the vendor village while munching on some BBQ. If this event doesn’t scream “4th of July for bassheads,” I don’t know what does.
After selling out the last 11 years of Deadrocks, fans are encouraged to grab their tickets as soon as possible. For the first time, Zeds Dead is offering bundled packages to those attending both Deadrocks and the Jamboree, which will be the lowest-priced ticket available for both events. These bundles are extremely limited and are expected to sell out almost immediately. General on-sale tickets are live today, January 8, at 12 PM MDT, with Jamboree tickets going on sale tomorrow, January 9, at 10 AM MDT. You do not want to miss one of Zeds Dead’s most iconic performances in the heart of bass music, so grab your tickets and get your travel plans in order because we’re all heading to Denver for another unforgettable experience July 2-4, 2026.
As 2025 comes to a close, the Moon Lvnding Fvm is reflecting on all the unforgettable sets that defined our year. From major festivals to hometown shows, we’ve danced, headbanged, and grooved our way across every corner of the US, and even Canada. Here’s a look at some of our staff’s favorite sets, festivals, venues, and b2b performances from the past year.
Sara Landry‘s Eternalism set at the Junkyard in Denver. This was my first time seeing her, and all the hype around her is completely justified. The production for this show was absolutely insane! Her set flowed really well and incorporated all the genres I love.
Armin Van Buuren at EDC Las Vegas. Old hits, new hits, classic trance, and new eras of trance. His set was so diverse and had me jumping like a set hasn’t in a long time. I heard “Set Me Free” for the first time and listened to it every day on SoundCloud for months until it was officially released. He brought out multiple guests, including Gryffin for their song “What Took You So Long.” This is another track I’ve had on repeat since it came out in 2024. I was surrounded by all my best friends, the fireworks were directly before him, and it was just magical. A perfect EDC main stage set. That set is going to be my Roman Empire forever.
Adventure ClubThrowback Tour at Terminal 5. I’ve been looking forward to this tour all year and finally getting to hear it lived up to the hype. Hearing their classics from 10 to 15 years ago brought me back to an earlier time in EDM when life was less complicated and more carefree.
Subtronics Cyclops Rocks night two was my favorite set of the year. Since I got my O.P.U.S. brainwave tattoo, Jesse blessed me by putting me on his artist guestlist for his Red Rocks shows. Night two was truly special for me since he closed out with O.P.U.S. He usually doesn’t play that in his sets anymore with all of his new music. He knew how important that song is to me. Knowing he played it for the show he invited me to as his guest meant the world to me as a fan.
Levity Lasership at the Shrine in Los Angeles. Not only did they limit tickets so it was not overly packed, but the production alone was next level. An insane amount of lasers, colored pyrotechnics, just an unreal set by them. After the set, they also did a surprise meet and greet with everyone.
Illenium B2B Slander at EDC Las Vegas. It was absolutely so magical. The people, the music, the stage, it reminded me why I love doing what I do! And Grabbitz at Darkstar, it hit parts of my soul I never knew existed.
Zed’s Dead at Rawhide. It was spent with my close rave fam and it was the tour for an album I really enjoyed. They played a lot of really good stuff and had an incredible lineup. I also got to meet Sippy and she was so cool and incredibly sweet. I felt like you could tell she was excited to meet her fans and connect with them.
What was your favorite festival you attended?
Kate – EDC Las Vegas this year was the most perfect festival experience I’ve ever had, and it’s because of the group I went with. We have RV camping down to a science, and all weekend long was seamless, perfect, and the most memorable time I’ve ever had. From a plethora of inside jokes, meeting up with friends from all across the country, and Afters-ing till 10:00am, we couldn’t have had a better experience. The sets were incredible, the love radiated, and the memories will last forever. I also got to interview Lavern in the press lounge after he opened the main stage on day one, which was an incredible experience. I connected with so many other people on the media side of the industry, and the view from the lounge is amazing. I’m truly so grateful for the opportunities dance music and Moon Lvnding have brought me. That interview was truly a “Holy Sh*t, I made it” moment, and I will never ever forget it.
Sam – Shambhalatakes the title as my new favorite festival and it’s not even close. Being a dry fest without any alcohol sales on site is a game-changer for the festival vibes and the vendor layout. But the Salmo River stole the show as the central hangout spot to cool off during the sunny afternoons.
Shae –Shambhala in Salmo, BC. It was my first time attending and the festival surpassed every hope I had for it. There are plenty of daytime activities like acro yoga, breath work, skinny dipping, and of course, floating down the river. At night, the festival transforms into a dazzling atmosphere with unique vibes at each stage and the heaviest bass a sound system can handle. The community is the embodiment of PLUR and there were plenty of experienced ravers in the crowd. The journey to get to and from the festival can take days of travel and hours of waiting in line, so those who make it truly want to be there. This festival truly reminded me of my “why” for raving. Shanbhala re-connected me to my love for this community, how PLUR has changed me for the better, and raving has shaped how I show up in the world.
Something unique about Shambhala is its strict no alcohol policy. While correlation doesn’t equal causation, I believe the no alcohol policy and onsite harm reduction and testing resources contributed to a safer environment. There wasn’t drunk fighting or people being carried out of the crowd by paramedics like you unfortunately, typically see at many other festivals. Harm reduction services are free and extensive, not only for substance testing and measurement but also for safe sex practices and hygiene.
Sam and I had the opportunity to interview Whipped Cream, who played a vibrant and genre-diverse set at the AMP stage. The artist lounge was in a treehouse where I wrote an encouraging message in a notebook left there signed with the Moon Lvnding social media handle. A few weeks later, I received a message from the owner of the notebook who thanked me for the kind words.
Chris –EDC Las Vegas. This year was the final year of the current basspod stage and it was crazy stacked. The group we went with was amazing this year. We had our own party bus, no drama, and it was just an insane time. Ending the weekend with a 5:00am Voyd set was great
Kristen – DUSK purely for the Moon Lvnding fam. I had such a genuine bonding weekend; it made my heart so full.
Emery – Cyclops Desertat Rawhide. My bestie and I hosted a meetup, I had a great group, the lineup was insane. Subtronics played practically all of Fibonacci Pt. 1. It was the craziest two nights I’d had in a while.
What was your favorite venue?
Jessica – Mission Ballroom in Denver. So many amazing artists come through there every year. The giant disco ball always adds an extra element to each show.
Kate –Darkstarin Tempe has truly turned into such an incredible club. Intimate vibes and the best crowds. The attached lobby bar is great if you need a moment to step away and chat with friends before jumping back into seeing your favorite artist tear it up to a true crowd of ravers.
Sam – Once again, Shambhala & the Salmo River are back in the limelight for best venue. There’s nothing better than relaxing in a tube, floating on the river, and listening to the beats coming from the riverside stage.
Shae – Brooklyn Storehouse took over the scene in NYC this year as the Brooklyn Mirage didn’t overcome its remodeling issues. Storehouse had mainly been booking house and techno artists but this year they have expanded into bass music with upcoming shows for Crankdat, REZZ, Subtronics, and Seven Lions.
This warehouse venue is customizable for artists to create the production experience they want, so it’s not surprising that many artists who typically were booked year over year at the Brooklyn Mirage have been migrating to this venue for their tour shows.
Chris – This year might be The Shrine in Los Angeles. Between the Lasership show and the Subtronics 360 set, they really went all out.
Kristen – Even though it’s giant, EDC Las Vegas at Las Vegas Raceway.
Emery –Rawhide in Arizona, specifically for Goldrush. This was my first Goldrush at Rawhide and I must say it far outweighs the raceway for this event. It felt like a real western town and was just so cool.
What was your favorite B2B?
Jessica – Caspa B2B Rusko at Mission Ballroom in Denver. Seeing the OG’s of dubstep throw down classic after classic made me feel like it was 2010 again, when I was first discovering those songs.
Kate –Adam Ten B2B Mita Gami at EDC Las Vegas. Flawless minimal vibes, the two flowed effortlessly into each other.
Sam – Excision B2B Subtronics at Lost Lands. This was the set we were waiting for all weekend and it exceeded expectations. These guys were chopping it up, finishing each other’s drops, and slamming VIP after VIP for almost two full hours. Dubstep at its finest!
Shae –Excision B2B Subtronics at Lost Lands was everything a headbanger could have asked for! Two of my favorite artists blending their most iconic tracks together into a symphony of heavy-hitting bass was the ultimate finale. I frequently re-watch that set and time-travel back to one of my all-time favorite sets of my rave career.
Chris –ILLENIUM B2B Slander was probably my favorite of the year at EDC Las Vegas.
Kristen – Aside from Slander B2B Illenium, Illenium B2B Zeds Dead at Goldrush. It was absolutely BONKERS.
Emery – Zed’s Dead B2B Illenium. Their music selection was immaculate and I had multiple friends from out of state and different rave fams with me. Sharing music and movement with them was incredible and the crowd around us was so full of PLUR.
As we close the chapter on 2025, these moments remind us why we fell in love with dance music in the first place. From massive festival stages to intimate club nights, legendary B2Bs to deeply personal sets, this year was fueled by connection, community, and unforgettable energy. We’re endlessly grateful to these artists, the venues that became second homes, and the people who shared the dance floor with us. Thank you for being part of the Moon Lvnding Fvm. Here’s to continuing to chase the magic wherever the music takes us next in 2026.
Genre-defying producer duo Zeds Dead return with Channel Flipping 2: Only You, a groundbreaking audiovisual piece that continues the conceptual arc of their 2025 album Return to the Spectrum of Intergalactic Happiness. Rooted in the album’s central motif—a television jumping between eras, memories, and sonic timelines—the new video expands that vision into a fully cinematic experience. What began as a viral, sample-driven live mashup from their 2024 and 2025 Red Rocks sets now arrives as a meticulously crafted narrative work. The result is a high-impact fusion of cinema, sampling, and storytelling that pushes the Zeds Dead mythos even further.
Channel Flipping 2: Only You blends cultural moments from artists such as Nas, Three 6 Mafia, John Lennon, The Platters, Midnight Cowboy, Lupe Fiasco, and more. Each sequence blends hip-hop grit, dubstep weight, and widescreen emotionality into a seamless voyage through collective memory and modern bass culture. The piece channels Zeds Dead’s long-standing reverence for sample history while reframing it with their signature cinematic flair. Every flip, cut, and transition reinforces their ability to collide nostalgia with new-age sound design.
Much like RSIH itself, the project functions as far more than a rework or extended edit. It operates as a full intermedia concept, bridging sound and story with the duo’s trademark DIY ethos. The mashup’s evolution from a crowd-shaking Red Rocks moment into a narrative film underscores Zeds Dead’s continued growth as both sonic innovators and visionary filmmakers. In a scene often oversaturated with spectacle, the duo remains driven by substance, risk-taking, and boundless creative curiosity.
For over a decade, Zeds Dead have helped shape the global landscape of electronic music. Since forming in 2009, their sprawling catalogue has amassed hundreds of millions of streams and cultivated a global, fiercely dedicated community. Their ambitious live concepts, from the Deadbeats Tour to the annual DeadRocks takeover at Red Rocks, have further solidified their legacy. With Channel Flipping 2: Only You, the duo once again pushes their universe into new creative territory—one where genre dissolves, nostalgia becomes world-building, and audiovisual experimentation drives the culture forward.
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.
As we ease into spooky season, we’re just a month out from the start of Hulaween. We’ve already shared our extensive review of the lineup, so check it out if you missed it the first time. Now, the festival organizers have dropped the official daily schedules, and it’s safe to say it’s going to be an unforgettable weekend. From Hula classics like String Cheese and Moe to debut performances from Parcels and Disco Lines, this year’s lineup brings a diverse mix of talent. Check out the daily schedules below to start planning your perfect Hulaween weekend!
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Limited ticket plans and camping accommodations are still available, so don’t wait if you’re still looking to book your trip out to Hulaween at The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park. For all the latest updates and festival announcements, be sure to follow the Hulaween socials below.
