Lightning in a Bottle 2023: A Festival With Heart
photo credit: Jamal Eid
In its 20th year, Lightning in a Bottle proves that the community cultivated over the past two decades is alive and thriving. Each part of LIB’s operation is a well-oiled machine that requires dozens of independent contractors, volunteers, and attendees to operate. It is a beautiful example of co-creation in play at a festival. With this year’s festival falling on a perfectly sunny and warm Bakersfield weekend, attendees were able to spend long days and nights taking in the multi-sensory beauty that is Lightning in a Bottle. Read on for some of our favorite standouts from LIB 2023.
Venue and Infrastructure:
Lightning in a Bottle 2023 took place at Buena Vista Lake in Bakersfield, California. This venue allowed for an immersive environment to be built that perfectly complemented the festival's ethos. LIB skillfully transformed the venue into a vibrant and sustainable oasis, with ample space for stages, art installations, camping areas, and various immersive zones. The seamless integration of nature, artistic (and sustainable) features, and vibrant stage design added to the festival's overall luster. With relatively flat grounds and accessible walkways, disabled and able-bodied guests alike were able to maneuver the grounds, which showed the authentic consideration for guests of all abilities. LIB also proved that a VIP ticket was worth the splurge, as ticketholders were able to indulge in lush, velvet lounge areas that offered reprieve during busy festival days.
Art and Culture:
One of the defining elements of Lightning in a Bottle is its celebration of art and culture. The festival's art installations, both large-scale and intimate, were thoughtfully curated and offered a visually stunning experience for attendees. The interactive nature of the artwork and roaming artists allowed all festival-goers to partake in the art that LIB has come to be known for. Additionally, the diverse range of workshops, talks, and performances provided valuable learning opportunities and fostered a sense of community and personal growth for guests of all interests and ages. On Friday afternoon, “Conscious Comedy” presented by comedian Brent Pella, overtook the Beacon, offering a genuine moment of levity that all could appreciate.
Music and Performances:
The musical lineup at Lightning in a Bottle 2023 was nothing short of extraordinary. While the foundation of LIB musical programming is known to be electronic music, the festival showcased an impressive array of artists from various genres, ensuring there was something for everyone. From captivating headliners like ZHU and Diplo, to emerging talents, like Mary Droppinz and Hamdi, the stages were consistently abuzz with infectious energy. The programming of live acts, DJs, and experimental performances further enriched the musical landscape, creating a dynamic and diverse sonic experience that kept satisfied each attendees needs. Each stage took on a personality of its own, and allowed for attendees to meander through the grounds to find the vibe that best fit their desires.
Sustainability and Eco-Conscious Practices:
Lightning in a Bottle's commitment to sustainability was evident in every aspect of the weekend. The organizers continues to make significant strides in reducing waste and promoting eco-conscious practices. This year, plant-based Earth Cups were used at each bar in the grounds, which was a great stride for the festival industry. Additionally, the emphasis on education and awareness regarding sustainability issues clearly resonated with attendees. With calls to pick up trash after the sets ended each night, the venue grounds remained clean and manageable. Much of LIB’s eclectic stage and art design is composed of upcycled and recycled materials, showing what beauty can happen when creativity and social consciousness come together.
Community Engagement:
The sense of community and inclusivity at Lightning in a Bottle 2023 is what keeps us coming back year after year. The Do Lab fostered an environment that encouraged participation, collaboration, and connection at every bend. Attendees felt a genuine sense of belonging and were actively engaged in the festival's various interactive elements. The creation of dedicated spaces for communal activities, workshops, and forums allowed people to forge new friendships and explore shared interests. LIB also welcomed community-built art cars to traverse the grounds, which added a special magic to the late nights.
Organization and Logistics:
The organization and logistics of Lightning in a Bottle 2023 were commendable. The festival's efficient entry and exit procedures, well-placed signage, and clear communication ensured a smooth flow of attendees throughout the event. The clear presence of essential amenities such as water stations, portable bathrooms, medical services, and charging stations was welcomed, and ensured that all attendees were able to access them. This year, Billfold and WRSTBND tag-teamed the RFID wristbands and payment systems all attendees were required to wear and use when paying vendors. It was a seamless process and exciting progress for festivals choosing to maintain a cashless experience.
Lightning in a Bottle remains one of our favorite festivals because of the passion that can be felt through all aspects of the event. It is clear that LIB values its attendees and desires to create an immersive, safe, and creative atmosphere for all to enjoy.
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photo credit: DI Visuals