Sol fest is a curation of events for the mind, body and “sol,” as they call it, named after the festival organizers’ friend who passed away in a tragic car accident. In honor of Sol, the fest is a homage to the deep connections made in the bass music community and an effort to foster new ones.
The lineup is a classic mix of old and new dubstep and bass for those who like the grimey, dark style of electronic that makes you wake up with a neck ache from headbanging too much. Early 2000s dubstep pioneers Zeds Dead, Flux Pavilion and Liquid Stranger will be there, along with wonkier cult faves like Eazybaked, Esseks and Tiedye Ky. All play music that makes you feel like you’re talking to aliens and operating heavy machinery at the same time.
Apart from the tunes, there are plenty of activities to tickle the mind at Sol Fest, like “microdose VR stations,” which I imagine simulate taking a small dose of psychedelics, a 100-foot wide holographic water screen where, apparently, one of “the largest water shows ever seen” unfurls, and of course, pyrotechnics and cryogenics.
And if dancing isn’t enough of a workout, Sol Fest takes place at a water park with inflatable toys, beach volleyball, waterslides, a zipline, walking trails and more. There’s also a general store and a fully stocked saloon.
For the “sol,” the festival invites you to submit a picture of a lost loved one that will be honored at a memorial presentation on “Sol Sunday.” I thought this part of the event seemed particularly special considering that these things usually just consist of partying.
The Specs
- Up to 10,000 people attend Sol Fest.
- Tickets: GA 3 Day Pass: $239; VIP 3 Day: $359; Thursday Early Entry: $59.
- The festival is just 36 miles from Florida and a short drive away from beautiful beaches. But if you want to experience the natural beauty that Alabama has to offer, check out this guide.
