Northern Nights Music Festival is one of the leading festivals for a euphoric and unique experience. There are few things in life that get better than dancing under Northern California's massive Redwoods or experiencing the special bond when strangers you meet turn to friends for life. NNMF took place on the Eel River, giving attendees an opportunity to cool down while listening to big names such as Autograf, Hotel Garuda and so much more. With impeccable vibes and a culture unlike any other, NNMF has definitely become one of my favorite events I have ever attended.

Upon arrival to the festival grounds I was eager and easily satisfied at the swiftness and organization the crew and volunteers had for entry and parking. Volunteers ran to and from your car and the box office to bring you your wristband to help eliminate long lines and massive chaos. And while the parking was a bit far from most camping, everyone swiftly brought their stuff to their campsites with a smile on their face and help from festival organizers.

Once we had set up camp, the EPIC crew headed to the river to catch the end of JSUN as well as Kush Arora, Hotel Garuda(who we were fortunate enough to interview), and CRNKN. All of these artists had the dance floor packed and moving, each bringing their own exclusive sounds. And with the massive sound system and heat, many individuals were able to enjoy the music while floating in the water with friends. On Saturday, Amp Live provided funky beats at the River Stage along with EPIC favorites Autograf and Starship Connection. Dirtybird's Justin Jay kept the River Stage rocking Sunday along with the help of Awesome Tapes from Africa, Lane 8 and many more talented artists.

As the sun went down we aanticipated the likes of G Jones, the Polish Ambassador, and Gold Fish who all completely rocked the main stage. With excellent visuals, plenty of room to dance, and the Redwoods as our scenery, the main stage was all anyone could have asked for. G Jones was one of my personal favorites, and I was highly pleased at the variety of his set(I had previously seen him at Lightning in a Bottle and both sets were very different yet both amazing). Other headliners on the main stage during the weekend included an inspiring set from rapper Goldlink, a live set from Shlohmo, and another personal favorite set from Sweater Beats who we had the opportunity to briefly meet during the Silent Disco.

The Silent Disco provided home to EPIC residents Wild Boyz!, Zima, and Whitlock who each had massive crowds silently grooving into the sunrise. The Grove Stage allowed for festival attendees to participate in yoga, comedy, and more proving that NNMF is not your cookie cutter festival. With a strong mix of live music, vocals, and electronic music, NNMF had a little something to please everyones music appetite. While the music was obviously a key part to Northern Nights the individuals who attended definitely set the bar. Smiling faces were everywhere around you and you could feel the happiness radiating through the crowds. From massive kickball games, to impromptu whale jousting competitions on the river, there was always something to thoroughly enjoy from such a magical festival. The masterminds behind NNMF make sure you don't feel like just another festival go-er among a massive crowd, at Northern Nights Music Festival you truly are a family. Everyone in one way or another contributes from art to good vibes, taking in strangers, or doing massive camp dinners, you definitely feel like you belong under the Redwoods.

I urger anyone that is unsure about NNMF to take a leap of faith next year, and trust me when I say it will be one of the best decisions you will make all summer. With only three short years under its belt it is no surprise that Northern Nights will only continue to grow into an even more amazing festival(if thats even possible). And if you do decide to join, make sure to come say hi to the EPIC crew as we join you next year for the 4th annual Northern Nights Music Festival.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Soundcloud

AUTHOR CREDIT: CHEYENNE HAVENS