The 5^th annual KAABOO music festival kicked off to an astounding Full Harvest Moon on Friday, September 13^th and went through Sunday evening September 15, 2019. (the next full moon on a Friday 13^th will be in 2049).

The music covered almost all genres from hip-hop, classic rock, reggae, EDM, and much more. The inclusive music lineup attracted people from every possible way of life. This year’s diverse lineup featured a great mix of live bands and DJ’s that catered to various tastes in music. There was something for everyone to enjoy, and everyone did!

Headliners

There were too many great performances to name them all, but here are a few. Kings of Leon – Dave Matthews Band – Mumford & Sons – Sheryl Crow – Duran Duran – Marin Morris – The Bangles – One Republic – REO Speedwagon – South Side Johnny and the Asbury Jukes – Master Mike – Black Eyed Peas – Little Steven – and a special collaboration between Snoop Dogg and Wu-Tang Clan. How could any lineup be any better?

Venue & Production

If it is gourmet food, craft cocktails, comedy, great logistics/organization, fashion, lounging in a pool, silent discos, making new friends, enjoying great art, sharing and caring; all while watching the most diverse music legends perform, KAABOO was the place to be!

In addition to all of this, the entire festival was “Dust-Free” and full of clean and comfortable amenities. The staff was always to be found and offered professional assistance whenever it was required. The festival grounds also included many indoor air-conditioned areas to escape the sun.

Although there were over 35,000 people daily the large sprawling grounds made it easy to get around with no crowds and very little waiting. All was perfect.  

There were five stages, which allowed attendees to walk between each stage. There were two stages near the entrance called Trestles and Grandview. There was a third stage, named Sunset Cliffs, situated at the opposite end of the field. It still amazes me that there was a swimming pool towards the rear of the Sunset Cliffs stage and fans could literally be in the pool or on the small beach that they created. This area is called the BASK and had a pool-side stage. There was also a Palate + Play stage keeping everyone entertained.

Food & Art

The first area we encountered was “The Palate”, a large conglomeration of paint artists and food artists presenting their food and art for us to enjoy. The art was amazing, from acrylic paintings, tape metal canvas and sculptures, it had it all. As people walked around they were confronted by large living murals being painted on-site at KAABOO.

The food was presented by a slew of experienced festival food providers as well as a number of well-known chefs such as Michael Mina and Nyesha Arrington. As you might imagine the food was superb, tasty and well presented. “The Palate” represents the most upscale culinary and art environment at KAABOO. This is where you can sample local and regional delicacies and small-batch specialties as well as to enjoy or purchase art created by local contemporary artists.

The large space was very well laid out with the food all around the perimeter and the artist’s booths in the center. It was very pleasurable to be in that space. Good job KAABOO.  As mentioned before there was a pool area complete with lounge chairs, a private beach, and bar with a magnificent view of the Sunset Stage. How could that get any better? At BASK one enjoyed a pool club that offers DJ sets, flowing cocktails and fun games, with premium cabanas.

Fashion & Indulgence

Fashion & Indulgence is a great way to get out of the sun and enjoy some air conditioning. This large space provided one the opportunity to just hang out, sit and relax, enjoy the scenery and music. You could try on groovy clothes and even get your hair styled by famous stylists.

We found the Karma at the entire festival was fantastic, but it was amped up here as everyone was having an amazing time. There was also a silent disco each night after the last performance. This was fun and logistically it enabled people to leave at different times making it very easy to exit the parking lot.

Humor Me

As if all this was not enough KAABOO added “Humor Me” an indoor seated auditorium that provided a million laughs from many comedians. The lineup included some of the funniest comedians on tour and TV today. A few names are Tom Green, Jen Kirkman, Pete Holmes & Friends, Tig Notaro, Jimmy O. Yang, Cristela Alonzo, Cameron Esposito, and Bob Sagat. Can it get any funnier?

Amplify (VIP)

There were a number of upgrades available to the extremely adequate Hang Loose pass. This gives you access to all the music and all of the common areas. There were a number of “Amplified” options available to enhance your experience.

Hang Five, Hang Ten or The Ultimate Hang package’s are available. The benefits of these VIP tickets, depending on the level, include preferred seating at Humor Me, access to BASK, complimentary food and drinks, backstage mix and mingle, private performances with performers like The Bacon Brothers, DJ Ricky, Hailey Whitters, Tori Kelly and much more.

Final Thoughts

Thank goodness for music, comedy and good people. The entire three days rocked in every way. Being at KAABOO reinforced my faith in humanity. Music is definitely the great differentiator.

When people of every type and every age can get together and party, dance together, laugh together and talk together.  If you want to make new friends for life and experience the best in music, comedy, art, and food don’t ever miss KAABOO.  

KAABOO brings people together and we are excited to come back next year in San Diego!