As Electric Forest draws near, let’s reflect on some of the distinctive elements that make the festival so special for all who attend.
Festival season is in full bloom, bringing music, community, and connection back into the heart space for all music lovers. Amidst the spring flowers, festivals come alive, offering solace from the cold winter months like warm honey for the soul. Each festival brings its own distinctive atmosphere, but nothing revitalizes the spirit quite like Electric Forest. Nestled deep in the trees of Michigan, an immersive playground awakens the senses, inviting all who attend to lead with their inner child and believe in the power of magic.
From June 22-25, Sherwood Forest will become home to souls seeking one unifying desire – to leave reality behind and step into a world of enchantment. Electric Forest, like any music festival, provides an atmosphere devoted to music. With nine immersive stages, the music flows through the trees at every turn, inviting you to dance, play, and release all inhibitions. The incredible integration of music and art, intricately woven into nature, provides a festival experience unlike anything else, and the deeper you look, the more magic you’ll uncover.
Related: Heading to Electric Forest this weekend? Stay in the know with all of the essential info!
Beyond the musical soundscapes and mesmerizing artwork lies an opportunity to tap into the wisdom of nature. The forest is full of secrets – and if you let it guide you, it won’t lead you astray. Countless tucked-away treasures and portals are waiting to be uncovered. Getting lost in the forest is like letting go of control and jumping into the rabbit hole with Alice. It will be trippy, it will be silly, and if you let it, it will be transformative. So, come jump down the rabbit hole with us as we dive into three elements that make Electric Forest one of the most unique and cherished festivals out there.
Three Elements That Make Electric Forest One Of A Kind
Being completely immersed in nature
One of the most intriguing parts of Electric Forest is the natural beauty of its surroundings. There is a profound sacredness to nature. Research has found that spending time in nature has many beneficial changes in the body, like lowering blood pressure, slowing our heart rate, and soothing the nervous system. Nature invites us to step away from the demands of daily life, slow down and remember that we are all intrinsically connected to it. We are nature, and spending time in it is just like coming back home to ourselves.
Deep in the Sherwood Forest, the healing power of music and nature blend in perfect harmony. As attendees dance and frolic from stage to stage, they become enveloped in trees drenched in sunlight and color. Hundreds of hammocks drape the branches where people sway to the rhythm of the breeze. The forest offers a tranquil place to rest, reflect and restore. Festivals can be grueling, so don’t be afraid to sit with the healing magic that nature provides for a while.
Remembering the gift of giving
Nature isn’t the only thing that provides at Electric Forest. One of the many charms of the festival is the spaces delegated to offering gifts to others. Amongst the trees, you will find a very special one – The Giving Tree. “Give sacred, find sacred” is the motto of the majestic willow tree nestled between the Tripolee and Ranch Arena stages. Festival-goers give something to the tree and take something in return. Many foresters have expressed their immense gratitude for the giving tree, as it emulates a feeling of connection to others, one of the most important values of Electric Forest.
Fairies also live in the forest, and their houses contain tiny treasures that other foresters leave behind. Open their tiny doors and see what lies within, and leave something in return for someone else to find. Often, these fairy houses hold very sentimental gifts, creating a special moment that both the giver and receiver will cherish forever.
The many tucked-away treasures just waiting to be found
The forest holds many secrets, and with a little curiosity and luck, you’ll stumble across them at the perfect time. There is no rhyme or reason for how you may come to find these hidden gems. Following your intuition and letting the energy of the forest guide you is your best bet.
Imagine making your way through the trees only to stumble upon Porter Robinson playing an intimate piano set nestled deep in the forest. Well, that’s exactly what happened last year. One of the festival’s most monumental installations is an acoustic piano placed in a random location each year. The impromptu performances could be a talented festival-goer or your favorite artist. The piano is a symbolic reflection of the gift of music and a celebration of those who want to share their gift.
Want to uncover more hidden treasures sprinkled throughout the forest? Head over to The Hangar, one of Electric Forest’s most celebrated destinations. This eclectic space invites attendees to immerse themselves in play and let curiosity guide the way. Take a trip into the tent of imagination, where you’ll be greeted by workers who will offer clues that could guide you to the forest’s next best secret. You could end up partaking in the festival’s infamous scavenger hunt, or you may stumble into a saucy-red room called The Poetry Brothel. The possibilities are truly endless.
