As the music festival scene continues to grow, larger-than-life productions and extravagant performances seem to be the norm. However, one festival is taking a different approach and appealing to a different kind of music fan. Ahead of the Santa Clarita, Calif., edition on Saturday (May 10), Activated Events’ founder Steve Thacher is shedding light on his scaled-down model and why it has captured the hearts of live music enthusiasts.
Activated Events’ festival, now in its third year, boasts an impressive lineup of electronic dance music (EDM) artists such as Tiesto, Martin Garrix, and Diplo. But what sets this festival apart is its intimate setting and focus on the overall experience. With a capacity of only 15,000 people, the festival offers a more personal and immersive experience for attendees.
Thacher, a seasoned event producer with over 25 years in the industry, saw a gap in the market for a more intimate festival experience. “I noticed that many of the larger festivals were becoming more about the production and less about the music,” Thacher explains. “I wanted to create an event that focused on the music and the community.”
And that is exactly what he did. Activated Events’ festival is strategically designed to foster a sense of community and connection among attendees. With smaller crowds, festival-goers have the opportunity to interact with each other and the artists in a more meaningful way. This creates a unique atmosphere that cannot be replicated at larger festivals.
But it’s not just about the size of the festival. Thacher and his team go above and beyond to curate an unforgettable experience for their attendees. From the stage design to the food vendors, every aspect is carefully thought out to enhance the overall experience. “We want our attendees to walk away feeling like they were a part of something special,” Thacher says.
In addition to the community aspect, Activated Events’ festival also stands out for its environmentally conscious approach. Thacher and his team have implemented various sustainability initiatives such as using biodegradable cups and partnering with local organizations to promote recycling and reduce waste. “We believe it is our responsibility to take care of the environment and give back to the community,” Thacher shares.
But perhaps the most appealing aspect of the festival is its focus on the music. With a lineup of top EDM artists, the festival offers an unparalleled experience for music lovers. Thacher understands the importance of the music and makes sure that it is at the forefront of the festival. “We want our attendees to come for the music and leave with unforgettable memories,” he says.
The success of Activated Events’ festival is a testament to Thacher’s vision and dedication to creating a unique and unforgettable experience for music fans. The festival has garnered a loyal following and continues to grow in popularity. “We are constantly looking for ways to improve and enhance the festival experience for our attendees,” Thacher says. “Our goal is to create a festival that is truly special and caters to the needs of our community.”
As the festival scene becomes more competitive, Activated Events’ festival stands out for its intimate setting, focus on community, and dedication to the music. Thacher’s scaled-down model has proven to be a winning formula, appealing to a different kind of music fan. With the Santa Clarita edition just around the corner, attendees can expect an unforgettable experience that will leave them wanting more. So mark your calendars and get ready to be a part of something truly special at Activated Events’ festival.
