Photos by William Smith – This year’s Outside Lands festival transformed San Francisco into one giant celebration. All three days were packed with unforgettable performances and memories that fans couldn’t afford to miss. The lineup drew a huge teen crowd, thanks to artists like PinkPantheress and Charli XCX, who boast massive young fan bases. This was a turnoff for some of the adult attendees but honestly, with a lineup that stacked, that didn’t stop anyone there from having a good time.
Day 1 was a sight to behold at the Lands End stage, where a sea of fans eagerly awaited Charli XCX’s closing act. The night kicked off with an explosive set from Memphis-born Glorilla, followed by the mesmerizing sounds of Labrinth. Charli XCX then took the stage, delivering a performance filled with raw energy, fashionable flair, and cinematic moments. She seamlessly blended tracks from her latest album, Music, Fashion, Film, with hits from her acclaimed Brat project, transforming the stage into a vibrant, oversized nightclub.
On Day 2, I caught just two stellar performances. First, the enchanting voice of Ethel Caine captivated the crowd, swaying everyone with her melodic tunes. Then, Joe Keery, best known as the actor from Stranger Things, showcased his new role as a rockstar with his band. Their high-energy, exhilarating set left fans buzzing.
Day 3 was an adrenaline-fueled whirlwind. Disco Lines got everyone jumping and dancing with his electrifying performance. Following him, Empire of The Sun dazzled with their surreal visuals, theatrical costumes, and euphoric music that took the audience on a dreamlike journey. The festival reached a fever pitch with Rufus Du Sol’s electrifying finale, drawing an enormous crowd and ending the weekend on a high note.
Overall, this year’s festival was a perfect blend of thrilling performances, vibrant atmospheres, and delicious food and wine. Everyone left with unforgettable memories in this extraordinary San Francisco celebration.
