Hulaween 2016 Recap

A lot has happened in the last few weeks since our road team has been home.  The Cubs finally won The World Series, Trump has been elected as our new President, and our beloved Broncos tragically lost to the Raiders last weekend. But there’s really only been one thing on our mind… that HULAWEEN this year was one of the best parties we’ve had the pleasure of attending.  Ever.

Over the course of the year, our road team attends multiple world class music festivals and other premier events across the country and the globe, but we think it’s safe to say that Hulaween consistently captivates our imagination and steals our hearts each and every time.  From the perfect weather to the eclectic music selection to the breathtaking art installations, this year’s event was nothing short of magically spectacular.  

The second you enter the Spirit of Suwannee Music Park, you instantly start to feel the magic that resides there.  First - you gradually feel the smile on your face increasing until you’re literally smiling from ear to ear.  Then the sunshine and positive vibes take over your body, leaving you with a subtle, tingly feeling all over.  Finally, you begin hearing music playing and can’t help but allow your feet to lead you on a dance-filled journey throughout the park.

The weekend kicked off with Thursday’s pre-party.  Umphrey’s McGee started this year’s party off with the biggest of bangs when they christened the Amphitheater Stage with their rock ’n’ roll majesticness. From that point forward, the onslaught of fun and happiness was upon us.  \mm/ rage.

The party kept rolling with Cheese bringing the heat on Friday (and Saturday and Sunday) at the Meadow Stage.  We have the pleasure of seeing these guys perform quite a bit throughout the year, but you’ll never see them perform better anywhere but Hulaween.  There’s something about seeing five grown-ass men dressed up and having the most fun of anyone present while bringing celebrity performers on stage with them to ensure a unique experience.  Job well done, again, fellas.

Best musical performance of the weekend is 100% going to be awarded to Anderson .Paak and The Free Nationals.  This was my second time seeing them perform and I can safely say that it was my favorite set that I've ever seen at the Amitheatre Stage.  Do yourself a favor and NEVER miss them because they're incredibly amazing and .Paak is one of the most energetic performers out there.  Quality at its finest.

Runners up for best music for the weekend included STS9, Twiddle, both Umphrey's sets, Lettuce, Rufus Du Sol, Bob Moses, and Disclosure.  

BEST COSTUMES

1. The Viking Squad - rumored to be a wedding party, this squad wins through sheer numbers and energy.  Easily 100 people deep, watching the whole crew walk across the grounds was certainly a sight to behold.  They wanted a Viking wedding and they got one.  EPIC
2. The Old People Posse - such dedication.  You all are hilarious and thank you for the laughs.

Inevitably, the weekend always seems to fly by and before we knew it we were packing up our booth to head out of the park.  We want to extend a big thank you to everyone who came by our booth as well as to those who bought the official hat!  This year was by far the best Hulaween yet!  To our friends over at Silver Wrapper as well as to those at the park, thank you so much for having us be involved with this incredible experience and we can't wait to return next year!

IN CASE YOU MISSED OUT ON BUYING THE OFFICIAL HAT!  

If you didn't make it by either the official merch booth or our booth to grab one of the official hats, you're in luck!  We came back with a handful of the snapback, fitted, and bucket hats and they all will be online in the next few days.