Imagine Festival 2023: An Atlanta EDM Retrospective
WRITTEN AND photographed BY IAN TAYLOR
Imagine Music Festival for me was the break-through event which really got me into the Atlanta EDM scene.
I experienced my first imagine last year, which would be considered it’s inaugural event at its new home of Kingston Downs.
The vibes were immaculate. The music, on point.
From that first year I was sold on the magic which Imagine brings to the Georgia electronic music scene.
This really shows when you walk up to that main stage, see the mind bending visuals, and feel that body rattling bass.
Having a little something for everyone who associates with electronic music,
this festival was truly a place for all.
As dawn breaks over Atlanta, the first rays of sunlight cast a glow on a spellbinding voyage that is Imagine Festival.
Founded by local entity Iris Presents, the team behind Imagine have a combined 27 years of experience. This production stands out not just as a musical conclave, but as an emblem of unity.
Journey with us through the heartland of Georgia, and dive deep into a world where music, art, and human interaction come together in perfect harmony.
To camp at a festival means to open yourself up to the beautiful experience of meeting and collaborating with like minds. We all work together to create a memorable and meaningful experience that will last a lifetime
When you decide to camp, you make the decision to be a part of a society. In very few places will you have to rely on yourself and your neighbor to maintain the vibe and to ultimately have a good time.
We all know camping is tough.
We may lose things, get into small disagreements, perhaps forget certain necessities. Whatever the case you shouldn’t fret, because you have a family at every corner who will be willing to have your back.
The campgrounds was what built the spirit of Imagine, and is what made me feel at home. My excitement for the weekend was growing and I couldn’t wait to join the party.
I was sitting at the top of the Amazonia stage hill looking at the sea of tents before me.
For me it has been quite a while since I’ve camped at a festival. I was pleasantly reminded of the sense of community which the campers had.
We had everything to live for in the moment, and we all shared it together, a bond built only in the moment.
With a system of trust and respect established, everyone thrived with an air of positivity and openness which had me sold for a camping experience of my own next year.
Amidst the sea of colors and sounds, how do festivals like Imagine shape your expression?
How do we carry on this authenticity?
The array of styles I had witness this year was nothing short of creative.
From the bright colors to all black chic. Everyone brought their best self, and looked good doing it. Seeing everyone express themselves was more than just inspiring, it was transcendent.
You were liberated to be whoever you wanted and dance like no one was looking because drive for connection was in the air and acceptance was everywhere.
“The stages were unlike anything I’ve seen, the amount of lasers alone were enough to light up the ground around me.
To watch everyone around me cherish the experience before us filled me with a sense of pride in what Georgia can do for the music community.
This was my first Imagine, and I felt welcomed by everyone I met.
I enjoyed music which I never thought I would before and it really opened my eyes to how expansive this [music] world can be”
Hoyt Felton | 1st Imagine | @itzhoyt
It isn’t just about the music for me. Imagine was full of vendors, side stages, and attractions.
From a kandi building station and interactive art booths, to an extensive outdoor swimming area. The Imanginee was never at a loss for things to do.
I found myself browsing between the many vendors. Many had a unique line of trinkets and other whimsical items to bring home as a keepsake.
Others created their own galleries for you to dive in and explore. Maybe you would find a piece you resonated with. You were able to buy it directly from the artist to help support another person’s passion/livelihood.
While this sounds standard to other festivals, its really the sense of inclusivity you feel when interacting with these vendors. It’s never just about money and always about building that connection with other human beings.
To me it seems that the vendors and creatives are the lifeblood of this festival. If you are a first timer you could easily gain festival wisdom by one of the many seasoned veterans that run these booths.
Maybe this was the year you picked up that pashmina to match perfectly with your outfit for the night, or picked up your first sacred pine. Ever want one of those inflateable lounge chairs? Well you could get yourself one of those too.
Everything you didn’t know you needed was just a short walk away.
“I’ve been to other festivals before, but not one with so much personality. It’s the size
of a mainstream festival only with a really unique community. I’m having a hard time
comparing my experiences with other music events because even with the sheer
size of Imagine, You still get a [very] personal experience.”
- Daniel Garcia | 1st Imagine | @dansreefworld
As the sun sets over Kingston Downs, the festival changes.
The day's vibrant energy is transformed into a wonderland of light and song by evening. Under the Georgian sky, each stage shone magnificently.
Here, the art installations begin to animate. this is where one world goes to bed and a whole new world begins to come to life.
Without discounting any of the talent for me, my favorite stage, by far, was Areia.
With acts ranging from local legends such as Sam Wolfe and JD Farrell to International headliners like Shockone and Infected Mushroom, the Areia Stage had it all. Not to mention the constant shade during those daytime hours.
If we are talking visuals it was a close tie between the Oceania stage and Amazonia stages. While both featured must see headliners, Amazonia had the most unique visuals while Oceania presented the most spectacular light shows.
“It was an awesome experience,
everyone was so nice and it was amazing to see the community come together, and watch everyone dance [together]
It’s been a few years since I’ve been to a festival, and I had an amazing time.
The artists were great and they did their thing with each set.
[I] can’t wait to come back next year again and help out once more”
-Willie Kennedy Jr. | | @ikkis_bass
A powerful sense of appreciation overtakes me as the last beats reverberate over Kingston Downs' expansive fields as the bright lights begin to fade. With its symphony of music, variety of stunning art installations, and many explosive performances, Imagine Festival has been a voyage.
When I think back on my experience I can't help but be impressed by the outstanding production values and the colorful people I had met. The art installations and top-notch music served as a reminder of the team's dedication to providing remarkable experiences.
Even though I had to leave early, the friendships I formed will remain with me forever, leaving a happy recollection of the good times I had.
Reflecting on my time at Imagine Festival, it’s the friendships that really resonate with me. Though these experiences generally last 3-4 days, the afterglow can last a lifetime. I’m happy I can help add to these moments, and probably you the reader as well. We need to do our best to protect these environments for the years to come so that generations after ours can have the opportunity as well.
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