Must Read

Elements Lakewood Returns Memorial Day Weekend — Our Must-Attend Festival of 2018 [Event Preview]

December 10, 2017 By Brie French-Sorgini

Nothing leaves a lasting impression quite like an inaugural music festival. There are so many elements that go into curating one that it’s understandably difficult to work out all of the kinks to make it flow just right. And yet, our favorite duo over at BangOn!NYC was able to accomplish what many have failed to do before. Taking place at Camp Lavi in Pennsylvania, Elements Lakewood Music & Arts Festival was one of the best inaugural camping festivals we’ve ever attended and easily the most magical summer camp experience we’ve ever had. And it’s because of this that Elements Lakewood is high at the top of our list of must-attend festivals in 2018.

Since the first year went off with a bang, Elements Lakewood is set to return to Northeast Pennsylvania May 25-27, 2018 on Memorial Day Weekend. Although the lineup won’t be released until January, we’ve already snagged our beds in a cozy cabin because, beyond the music, we’re returning for the unforgettable experience we had the first time around.

When we say that this a three-day camping festival, we literally mean that you will be spending an entire weekend at an adult summer camp. And yes, it’s everything weird, wild, and wacky that you could ever imagine and more. Memories were made watching fireworks around the campfire, taking kayak trips across the lake at dusk, during enlightening afternoon yoga sessions, and getting lost under the kaleidoscopic trees illuminated in the forest stage. Sprawled across the camp was every game and activity you could think of, including human foosball, mini golf, heated swimming pools, ropes courses, a massage oasis and more. The roller skating rink provided endless highlights as campers impressively twirled around in costume. At night, the woods came alive with lights, fire, and plenty of mystical elements to get lost in. Get the full recap here, because trust us, you’ll want to know more.

From what we’ve heard, this year is shaping up to be just as great, if not better. The festival will again transpire on a sprawling summer camp property offering green fields, forest stages, lakeside views and cabins. Entry/Exodus will improve with additional staff, a better organized parking lot, and more buses and trailers. Food options with 24/7 service, a larger array of vendors, General Store, and the introduction of VIP services will enhance the attendee experience.

In addition to the four element-themed stages (earth, fire, water, air), new hideaways for live music, ambient music areas, and a new boat stage will encourage exploration of up-and-coming local artists. Similar to the NYC Elements Festival, you can expect to see incredible art installations, workshops, a healing garden, and more.

And of course, the grounds will be locked and loaded once again with a fully-equipped adult summer camp, offering every game, sport, and campfire shenanigans you’d want to get your hands on.

Loyalty tickets, early bird tickets, and cabin accommodations are on sale now. Watch the Elements Lakewood preview video below, and purchase all available tickets and accommodation here.