A Feast for the Senses: The Electric Daisy Carnival in Mexico City
I had a general idea what I was in for. I’d seen many photos and Instagram posts from EDC showcasing stage sets exaggerated in size and pigment, pyrotechnics and outlandish costume choices. As a first-time attendee, I purchased my tickets a few months prior and then counted the days until that fateful day in February of 2023. My anticipation was palpable and I’m sure that everyone around me waited in anticipation for me to shut the heck up about it. BUT, with all of my planning, I was not mentally prepared for what was to come.
The experience starts long before entering the venue. Festival goers are made to pass through colorful tunnels and lighting displays, a sea of vendors and blaring music that built anticipation and frankly annoyed me. Why couldn't I just get there already?
But oh man, I finally floated through the entrance, straight into a trippy, gluttonous feast for the senses. I had entered a realm where hues were more vibrant and sounds more intricate, surpassing the mundane experiences of us mere mortals on Earth. No psychedelics were necessary. The sensory overload made my heart race and caused my body to move uncontrollably. Soon enough I was dancing among a sea of strangers as far as I could see.
Electric Daisy Carnival, renowned as one of the world's most beloved and largest music festivals, has witnessed a gradual rise in attendance since its establishment in 1999. Originating in California with a modest gathering of 20,000 guests, it has now blossomed into a global phenomenon, attracting over 400,000 attendees from all corners of the world. People flock to this wondrous event to embark on a journey where music reigns supreme, transcending language barriers and uniting all under a shared passion: "Techno Music Addicts".
Since its inception, EDC has passed through various locations, captivating music enthusiasts. Annually held in Las Vegas, Orlando and Mexico City, this epic festival has magically made appearances in Los Angeles, Denver, Puerto Rico, Dallas, New York, Chicago, London, Brazil, India, Japan, Shanghai, Guangdong (China), Korea, and more.
With over 500 performers gracing its elaborately designed stages, EDC guarantees an immersive experience that transcends generational and cultural boundaries. And if that's not enough, it even boasts its own carnival, adding an extra dose of thrill to the mix.
World-renown artists like Adam Beyer, Joseph Capriati, Artbat, and Diplo are featured on stages called Kinetic Field, Waste Land, and Neon Garden playing techno, dubstep, trap, future bass, and so much more.
To audacious first-timers embarking on an EDC experience, here are a few tidbits of advice to make the most of your weekend (without ruining the fun):
Dress comfortably so that you can hang out for hours and hours.
The EDC App is great for navigating the festival. It includes an interactive map, artist info, and lineup so you don’t miss any of your favorite DJs.
Have a plan to ensure that you see your favorite artists. I attended with a friend who liked a different type of techno music, so we planned our stages with rest time in-between.
There is high entertainment value in finding a perch to watch outrageous, innovative costume choices pass you by.
Be sure to visit the carnival.
EDC can be intense so take breaks and find the food area to recharge.
Stay hydrated.
Before embarking on the festival, be sure to arrange your ride home. You will not be able to walk out of the venue and hop into an Uber amongst the massive crowd.
If your heart beats to the rhythm techno music, EDC Mexico City is an absolute must-attend event, worthy of planning a dedicated trip. Check the EDC website for dates and nab your tix. With an impressive lineup of exceptionally talented DJs, its vibrant atmosphere and flashy light shows, EDC is an event that I implore you not to miss.
See Mexico in all its glory here in this relaxation film: Magical Mexico
