Written by Carlie belbin and Shakiel Mahjouri.
The Enchantment of Shambhala: A Journey Back to the Farm
this year marked the 26th installment of the beloved shambhala Music Festival, held at the picturesque Salmo River Ranch. Though, this gathering was not merely a return to familiar grounds; it was a profound reconnection with oneself. The festival’s essence thrived in those fleeting moments between bass drops, where authentic self-expression flourished, and attendees felt an undeniable sense of belonging—no matter their origins.
A Warm Welcome Back
Thursday greeted us with open arms as local favorites skiitour ignited the festivities with an electrifying performance that made it feel as if we had never left. As the sun set behind majestic mountains, life surged through the ranch; dance floors sparkled with sequins and vibrant colors, while smiles radiated joy—an unmistakable sign that we were truly back.
hidden Gems and Surprises Await
A Sacred Beginning
The festivities continued Friday afternoon with a heartfelt opening Ceremony at The Grove that fostered gratitude and connection among attendees. Following this spiritual moment were uplifting sets by Tor and JPOD that grounded us in respect for the ancestral lands of syilx, Sinixt, and Ktunaxa Nations.
An Evening Full of Life
As daylight faded into nightfall, Fractal Forest erupted into life under funky beats from Freddy J, Mood Swing & Chevy Bass, Good K+Lab alongside Fractal staple Stickybuds. Later on stage at Pagoda during prime time Saturday were Chris Lake and justin Martin delivering euphoric moments that resonated deeply within all present.
The Dilemma of Choices
The farm offers limitless options—from DJ sets to spontaneous adventures—and whimsical connections abound everywhere you turn. While there’s comfort in knowing every choice can lead to joy-filled experiences; sometimes tough decisions arise—like whether to catch Huge Wide at Fractal or enjoy Troyboi over at AMP—a common dilemma faced by festival-goers everywhere.
Catching Every Beat: A Marathon Experience
If only navigating festival life came equipped with a New Game Plus (NG+) mode allowing you to experience everything simultaneously! Saturday saw phenomenal performances unfold across stages; No Thanks delivered an unforgettable after-hours set in Fractal while Andy C transformed Village into a drum & bass haven filled with energy.
A Collective Spirit Embodied Through Totems
Every participant adds their unique touch to Shambhala’s vibrant spirit—as seen through creative totems scattered throughout the venue.
Annual favorites like dancing peter griffin or whimsical jellyfish reunited once again among friends while one thoughtful individual ingeniously combined multiple fans onto one stick providing relief for fellow ravers amidst feverish dancing—a true blessing!
A Showcase of Creativity: Rave Runway Extravaganza
This year’s Rave Runway Extravaganza hosted by Frieda Whales celebrated radical self-expression through DIY fashion featuring glittery outfits adorned with fringe feathers galore! Canadian DJ The Gaff took center stage as dusk fell introducing his son who witnessed his father shine brightly within this magical realm!
Sustenance Amidst festivity
No festival experience is complete without sustenance! Three unsung heroes arrived just before FATHER SON’s early morning debut carrying portable grills serving up tasty grilled cheese sandwiches—the perfect remedy after hours spent dancing under starlit skies!
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