I'm not going to lie, I love Coachella - the stunning desert landscapes, the innovative fashion, the celebrity encounters (I once accidentally cut into Victoria Justice's lobster roll line , not to mention the non-stop spin-off parties, and the show itself. But when I first heard about Hangout Music Festival, my first thought was: This is better.
Hosted on the white sand beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama, The Hangout is the ultimate luxury music festival experience. With shoreline villas, a stage-side swimming pool, and a massive lineup (headliners include: Lil Nas X, SZA, and Paramore), this festival is well worth the trip down south.
Just one general admission ticket gets fans the entire weekend of the festival (naturally), as well as access to the beach and pool, plus access to multiple beach clubs and a full-size roller disco rink. Tickets are $349, which equates to $113 per day, compared with $450+ at Coachella ($150 per day).
Unlike Coachella, the VIP option at Hangout is not just the crowded VIP area, but also the equally crowded GA area. Priced at $1,399 for the 3-day package (approximately $466 per day), the VIP pass includes all of the above benefits and services, plus access to the main stage pool area in addition to a private beach club and viewing. VIP members also have free access to the VIP Grove Lounge, where they can enjoy free cocktails, beer, wine and snacks.
Hangout Celebrations also includes a seaside wedding chapel for anyone really into the festive lifestyle - yes, you can actually get married there. As with any good tropical resort, fans can purchase private cabanas next to the stage, complete with private all-inclusive bar, cushioned hammocks, on-site chef and more. All this and I haven't even gone to the show yet.
The Hangout is arguably one of the best this year, with a full line-up of A-list stars taking the stage on the beach. Headliners include SZA, Lil Nas X, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Calvin Harris, Skrillex, Flume, The Kid LAROI, and former emo kids like me, Paramore. Basically, this is my Spotify Wrapped IRL.
View on Instagram
TL;DR — You can pick me up there May 19-21.