Electric Honey Experience 2024 : Festival Recap
A Festival with a Purpose
Electric Honey Experience wasn’t just about the music. As a nonprofit event supporting the anti-development efforts of Kane Creek, it carried a meaningful message of preservation and community. Being part of a festival that stood for something bigger left me feeling deeply grateful—not only for the experience but for the cause it championed. For more information about the Kane Creek development project and why we are fighting against it please follow the link: https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/uproar-over-kane-creek-development-dominates-commission-meeting/
Oh Honey Honey
Nestled just outside Moab, the Electric Honey Experience Festival offered an intimate, enchanting weekend that felt like a hidden gem. Held at The Land—previously home to festivals like Turkey Boogie—the venue was perfectly suited for this magical gathering. Run by a passionate collective from Boulder, Colorado, the crowd reflected its diverse reach. I met festival-goers from all over: Ohio, Colorado, Utah, Montana, Germany, Australia, and, of course, local Moabites.
Lay of the Land: A Musical Wonderland
The festival featured 3 stages: the Honey Pot Stage, the Desert Yacht Stage, and the Aquatic Stage.
The Honey Pot Stage was a high-energy hub, bursting with pulsing beats and stunning visuals. Thanks to Canyonlands and the crew, the pyrotechnics lit up the night sky, making it a sensory feast for all. The energy was electric, and the performances kept the crowd dancing all night long.
In contrast, the Desert Yacht Stage offered a more laid-back, groove-heavy atmosphere. It became the go-to spot for those wanting to unwind and dance under the stars. Charlie Daze delivered an unforgettable set here, captivating the crowd with his unique sound and engaging presence. Drawing inspiration from the band Khruangbin, his music delivered a psychedelic groove that encouraged everyone to dance in a fluid and free-flowing manner. The vibe was perfect for connecting with friends and enjoying the music in a more intimate setting.
The Dome: A Space for Intention
In addition to the stages, the Dome served as a sanctuary for those seeking a more mindful experience. Tucked away on the hillside above the main action, it was filled with pillows, sound bowls, and small-scale DJ sets, creating an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and reflection. This intentional space was designed to promote community and mindfulness, allowing festival-goers to recharge, engage in meaningful conversations, or simply enjoy a moment of peace away from the vibrant energy of the main stages.
The Honey Ceremony
One of the weekend’s highlights was the Electric Honey Ceremony, a mesmerizing experience that united the whole festival crowd. It began with wise words from the festival organizers, followed by a massive drum circle, hypnotic fire performances, and spontaneous dancing engulfed by red rocks. The energy was palpable, capturing the true spirit of the community that Electric Honey celebrated.
A Diverse Musical Journey
Musically, Electric Honey Experience was a rollercoaster of genres, offering something for every kind of music lover. From rock and psychedelic jams to techno and deep dub, the variety was one of the festival’s strong suits.
The Galentines, an all-woman band, were a major standout. Their mix of covers and original tracks had the crowd hooked, with some even comparing them to Fleetwood Mac. Their unique sound, which seemed to take subtle inspiration from artists like Willow Smith, was both refreshing and captivating.
Oh, Charlie Daze!!! An unforgettable performance unfolded at the Desert Yacht Stage, where a small, intimate set drew in just a handful of dancers. Yet, despite the modest audience, the performance was nothing less than spectacular—so much so that it truly deserved a spot on the main stage. It was one of those rare, magical moments where the bond between the music and the dancers felt profoundly personal. To top it off, a rainbow emerged from the gently sprinkling clouds, adding to the enchantment of the experience.
Late Night Magic with Di-lon
The late-night highlight was undoubtedly Di-lon. His 3 AM deep dub set was an absolute masterclass in sound, bringing out the local Moab lizards themselves. His 140 BPM thumps were a welcome break from the constant techno and house sounds, providing a deep, bass-driven journey that felt perfectly in tune with the landscape.
Saturday Night: A Production Powerhouse
As the rain began to fall on Saturday night, the festival’s production took center stage. Lasers reflected off the gentle drizzle, creating a mesmerizing visual effect that felt almost otherworldly. Compared to Friday, the Saturday night production was elevated, with strobes, fog machines, 2 flame throwers, and fire dancers bringing the entire experience to a dazzling crescendo.
Disrupting Nirvana Fashion Show
Disrupt Nirvana stole the show with an interactive fashion display, inviting attendees to try on and dance in their bold, expressive garments. The brand’s unique designs and artistic rebellion were a hit, sparking conversation and drawing plenty of attention throughout the weekend. Their high-quality pieces added to a diverse vendor lineup, giving festival-goers the chance to support local businesses and take home a piece of Electric Honey’s creative energy.
Among the standout vendors was Soul Seed Creations, showcasing an array of handmade jewelry that blended earthy aesthetics with intricate, one-of-a-kind designs. Each piece seemed to capture the essence of the surrounding nature, making them a perfect keepsake for festival-goers.
Safety First in the Desert
The rugged landscape of Moab can be unforgiving, but the festival’s security and safety team did an outstanding job. Despite the challenging terrain, there were no major incidents reported, showcasing the team’s commitment to keeping everyone safe and ensuring that the festival ran smoothly. Thank you!
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the Electric Honey Experience emerged as a vibrant celebration of music and community that left a lasting impression on all who attended. With unforgettable performances at the Honey Pot and Desert Yacht stages, alongside the tranquil ambiance of the Dome, the festival created a unique atmosphere that resonated deeply with its audience. More than just a gathering of artists and music enthusiasts, this event serves as a vital reminder of the importance of preserving the breathtaking landscapes of Moab and the Kane Creek Area.
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