This summer I am forever changed from Shambhala. As a festival junkie, I've traveled across the United States experiencing transformational festivals such as Burning Man to the most comfortable posh events like Holy Ship. I wanted to see how Canada does it and let me tell you, Shambhala held its own and then some with top-notch production, incredible builds, and grounds. Shambhala will hold a special place in my heart as the most loving festival that I’ve ever been to.

The festival itself was incredibly forward thinking with drug testing on site and a huge board showing what inconsistencies came up. This alone kept the “bad drugs” out and was so much more honest and safe than I’ve ever seen before. The ban on alcohol is simply incredible, 100% noticeable and something that really makes Shambhala’s patrons stand out from all the rest. Canadians….are funny. Having been from coast to coast in America, this was my first Canadian festival and boy oh boy, do they know how to party. From jokes in the porta-potties to elaborate outfits and totems, Canadians are a polite (and hilarious) bunch to get down with.

All of the stages at Shambhala had a little special something; the Pagoda was just ridiculous with shadow dancers and over the top lights. I watched my first full Destructo set with the sun coming up and it was literally the best moment of my summer. I fell in love with my friends, Destructo became my new favorite DJ and knew I was where I belong. The Village stage was my personal favorite, over the top tree houses where I could dance above it all, it felt like a personal slice of heaven. Other notable music moments were catching Edamame in the intimate Grove, the Librarian in the Living Room and an hour of Truth at the Amphitheater. Every day was different and even after five days I still hadn’t seen all the parts of the Fractal Forest or hung out at the river enough. Truly there is something for everyone at Shambhala music festival. My heart was so full when I left that I knew I had found a home in Canada and that I would be back next year. My New York production team H<3art Beats will be throwing some road to Shambhala shows in Portland Oregon and Spokane Washington because we were so moved and inspired. Thank you for the memories and see you next year!

Get your tickets to Shambhala 2019 right here!

Oh Dag Yo Photography © 2018