This weekend, Voodoo Music + Arts Experience livened up New Orleans’ City Park. Bringing in tens of thousands of festival-goers, hundreds of Harley Quinn costumes and over 60 acts, the festival quickly established itself as one to remember.
With big names like The Chainsmokers, G-Eazy and The Weeknd, numerous local food and drink options and various special attractions, there’s a lot to love. Here are the 10 best aspects of the festival, in no particular order.
1. Location
There’s a reason Voodoo is in New Orleans. The culture, uniqueness and happy-go-lucky attitude run through the veins of each and every person who comes through the city. Unmatched by any other American city, the New Orleans vibe shines through each attendee.
2. Halloween Costumes
Festival-goers are known for going all-out with their outfits, and because Voodoo is held over Halloween weekend, this tradition is heightened. Attendees of all ages could be seen sporting costumes, whether individual or with a group. Power Rangers, Elvis Presley, flying monkeys, Ken Bone and even Jesus Christ could be seen roaming the City Park grounds.
3. G-Eazy
G-Eazy’s Friday performance on the Altar Stage was a must-see. Dressed as the Joker, complete with green hair and makeup, he embodied the festival’s Halloween vibe. He incorporated both new and old songs into his show, including “I Mean It,” “Me, Myself & I” and “Tumblr Girls.”
4. Diverse Lineup
There’s something to be said about the diversity of the lineup. Performers hailed from coast to coast and even as far as South Africa. This variety made for a truly unique experience.
5. The Ferris Wheel
To add to the fun, attendees could hop on the Ferris wheel when waiting between musical acts. From the top of the Ferris wheel, riders could view the entire park in all of its grandeur.
6. The Weeknd
The Weeknd, who also performed Friday, was another crowd pleaser. Having quickly risen to the top of the charts, he sang his way into the hearts of many, the size of the crowd he attracted a testament to his success. He performed many of his hits, including “Often,” “Earned It” and “Starboy.”
7. Vendor Village
Between acts, festival-goers could browse the vendor village located in the center of the park. Hats, jewelry and original artwork, among other goods, were available for purchase.
8. Forked Up Food Court
The Forked Up Food Court has something for everyone, offering burgers, Cajun dishes, crepes and even vegetarian and vegan options. Local restaurants, including Blue Oak BBQ, Dat Dog and Jambalaya Girl, showcased their best at affordable prices.
9. Lesser-Known Groups
At a festival, it’s easy to get caught up with the headlining acts, but Voodoo offers a variety of lesser known groups as well. Playing in a Voodoo festival allows the performers access to an entirely new demographic, providing the opportunity to get their names out there and gain new fans.
10. The Chainsmokers
Saving the best for last, the ever-popular disc jockey duo, The Chainsmokers, graced the Le Plur stage as one of the final acts. They performed hits through their “blurred lines” style, which combines indie, pop, EDM and hip hop, and brought a sense of closure to the weekend.
The ferris wheel entertaining festival-goers on Friday Oct. 28, 2016 at the Voodoo Music and Arts Experience (Voodoo Festival) at City Park in New Orleans, Louisiana.
