Soundslinger says that Okeechobee won’t return in 2025 but offers hope for the future, sharing they’re “working hard behind the scenes.”
Over the past few years, music lovers in Florida have been left with a hole in their hearts as Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival remains on hiatus after it shuttered its doors after tragedy struck in 2023. Soundslinger, the festival’s founder, announced that it wouldn’t return in 2024, but many who loved their experience at Sunshine Grove hoped an edition would take place in 2025. Today, those plans were dashed after an update was posted on their official website.
“Taking 2024 off allowed us to reassess, reorganize, and reflect,” the statement from Soundslinger reads. “While we had initially planned to return in 2025, we have decided that some extra time will allow us to deliver a better festival experience – an experience that honors our purpose of bringing people together to create lasting memories and friendships.”
Those lasting memories and friendships have been displayed in recent months. Okeechobee’s social media channels have been bolstered with iconic moments from past editions, gorgeous sunsets, the vibrant community, and more.
While Okeechobee might not be moving forward in 2025, Soundslinger offered a dose of positivity for future years. “We, the Okee OG’s, are working hard behind the scenes to curate a colorful lineup that blends nostalgic favorites with emerging artists, crafting unique experiences that fully immerse you in the spirit of Okeechobee,” they shared. One of the aspects that they’ve teased is a focus on “only at Okeechobee” performances that will help capture the essence of the festival.
Soundslinger painted the future of Okeechobee as a “community-centric festival experience” before closing their statement by saying that they “feel extremely lucky and grateful” for the unwavering support from attendees.
Check out the full statement from Soundslinger, and stay tuned for more updates on Okeechobee.
Read the statement from Soundslinger:
