“ARC is the perfect festival for anyone obsessed with house and techno. The production, experience and overall energy of the festival is incredible. Especially considering 2021 was the first year. The lineup was absolutely stacked too. I can’t wait to go back! EDC Las Vegas is the ultimate rave in the US. Once you go, you’re hooked. There are not only incredible artists performing, but a whole new world to discover. The art installations, interactive performers and production is next level. EDC is also my favorite place to go all out with my outfits! There’s always something new to discover, which is one of the many reasons I always look forward to returning!”

@katherineannmoon

“I’m most excited this year for Hard PNW and Above and Beyond group therapy weekend !! I’m in love with the lineup for Hard PNW, trap and house have always been my favorite EDM genres. It’ll actually be my first Hard AND Group Therapy Weekend this year. However opposite of trap and house, trance was never something I was interested in until I saw Above and Beyond a couple years ago. Ever since then, I’ve been dying to attend their Group Therapy Weekend and I’m excited to finally get the chance to experience the festival!”

@love.rasheena

    “I’ve been wanting to attend Beyond SoCal since I heard about it in 2019. The entire theme of the festival and the theatrics of insomniac always draw me in. Beyond Wonderland specifically just seems so magical and beautiful to me and it. I’m from Florida and have never been to a rave on the West Coast so this will be a very exciting trip for me!”

@curvyravebae

(Excited about their first EDC and other festivals they are attending) “I'm excited for all the awesome music and incredible production. I'm also excited to meet more like-minded people, make new friends, and become more involved in this close-knit community. Plus I'm excited to express myself through fun outfits that aren't really acceptable in any other setting! All in all, it's the best place to just be fully myself.”

@weightplates.and.ravedates

    “This will be my first year attending Electric Forest, as well as my first camping festival, and it’s the festival I’m most looking forward to this year. I have heard that EF is more than just a festival - it’s an experience that will awaken you in a way you will never understand until you’ve experienced it yourself. I can’t wait to go on that journey, and I’m attending with one of my very good friends!”

@sunshine.kangaroo

    “Shambhala is a beautiful, life-changing festival! Never before in my life have I felt so free to be myself and let loose. The stage production, PK sound, artists and attendees are incredible beyond words. Plus, it’s in the most scenic location, with mountains, sunflowers and a crystal clear river to cool off in. There is simply nothing quite like Shambhala and I cannot wait to be back to the place I call home.”

Whether you’re looking for an outfit that has a fun, neon centerpiece or has subtle neon accents, we have you covered! Here are some fun ways to incorporate neon in your next rave outfit.

Outfits:

Neon outfits are versatile in a way that you can wear however much you want according to how you’re feeling. You can match both your top and bottoms with a bright, flashy neon color if you’re feeling adventurous, or play around with colors and pick a bodysuit or set that is mainly monochrome but has neon accents. Combining different neon colors can be a great option as well, although some neon colors could compete and clash with each other, it can be fun to play around with different colors and see what looks amazing in an outfit!

@cookievalentine wearing It's My World Vinyl Skater Skirt and Need 4 Speed Clasp Corset Top

Accessories:

Neon accessories are great if you want to bring attention to one or a few parts of your outfit. Bigger pieces such  harnesses and belts can be used, as well as smaller pieces like chokers and earrings to bring an extra flair to your outfit. Adding neon pieces to your hair like wigs or neon braids can really spice up a rave outfit as well!

@momo_dubz wearing Fishnet Mini Skirt and Dominate Strappy O-Ring Top

Styling:

When you style neon pieces in you rave looks you have a lot of freedom because neon goes with just about anything. You can go with an entire neon look and mix colors, a monochrome neon look or incorporate neon with another style for a pop of color. A pop of neon against an all black look is always a great classic rave style, or other prints that incorporate neon like liquid tripp styles are a fun way to use neon without committing to an entirely neon outfit.

Love our trend guides? Keep up with our blog for advice on how to style rave clothes, outfit ideas and more.

Beyond Wonderland Pacific Northwest was a two day festival that happened between October 1st-2nd with a pre-party that happened in the venue on September 30th for people that were camping. Although the weather is usually cold and windy this time of the year, it was very mild all weekend. Since it was a little chilly at night people prepared and brought their A-game with their night time outfits. 

There were three stages at Beyond Wonderland Pacific Northwest: Fractal Valley, Cheshire Woods, and Caterpillar’s Garden. Fractal Valley overlooked the beautiful Gorge, and people watching sets from the pit and the hill could enjoy the stunning view while also enjoying their favorite sets. Some artists that played there were The Chainsmokers, Said the Sky, Tiesto, Joyryde, Benny Benassi, and Rezz. Caterpillar’s Garden had a lot of house artists such as Green Velvet, Sidepiece, Wax Motif, and Malaa. And lastly, Cheshire Woods had a lot of bass artists such as G Jones, Virtual Riot, Kayzo, Sullivan King, and Svdden Death. My personal favorites from the night were Benny Benassi, Sidepiece, Said the Sky, and Claptone. 

There were a lot of things besides the music at the venue as well. To go along with the Alice in Wonderland theme, there were a ton of art installations. There were inflatable mushrooms everywhere, a giant art installation of a rabbit, tea pots and cups, the whole venue had turned into a raver  theme park. There was also a ferris wheel, which gave you an amazing view of the whole festival, and a spinning ride for those thrill seekers. Many vendors had their booths there, so if you wanted to buy last-minute festival accessories to complete your look, you had many options. There were a lot of different choices for food as well, such as ice cream, noodles, poutine, and chicken tenders.

homegameauction Outfits at Beyond Wonderland PNW

There were so many beautiful people wearing homegameauction at the Gorge at Beyond, here are some outfits that people were rocking! Click here to shop the looks.

@filtyslav

@loanabanana82

@paytonperlers

@unicornfairy_xoxo

@xstalnyan

@lavenval

@luckylight__

homegameauction Unicorns: @ariesss.fairyyy @Moni_mon17 @yuviamarquez @hey_its_amalia

If it’s your first time going to a camping festival, it could be a little overwhelming to prepare for one, and a lot of times you may not know what to expect when you are camping. Here are 4 secrets to having the perfect camping festival experience, these tips will help you be prepared for any situation!

Get early arrival tickets when it’s an option.

Getting ready daily for a festival takes a lot of time, so if you have the option to get to a festival early, you’d want to do that. Many festivals have early arrival tickets as an add-on, and it is honestly worth the extra money—though for some festivals, early arrival may require an application process.

If you are able to set up camp early, that means you get to relax until the festival starts—it also gives you some extra time to explore the campgrounds and check out and pre-parties that might be happening. You would also want to get to the campgrounds earlier during the day as well. Traffic getting into some festival campgrounds can get bad later in the day, so getting there early could also help you skip the long lines. Plus, it is a lot easier to set up camp when you have daylight, so plan ahead of time to get there early for a stress-free camping experience!

Make a camping check-list before you pack.

Having a checklist is very important when you are camping at a festival. It makes packing a lot easier and ensures that you pack everything you need. Many festivals provide a checklist, and you can also add onto those lists to personalize it for your own needs. Here is an example of a packing list for festival camping! If you need to stop by a store to pick things up like ice and food on the way, make sure to write a shopping list as well.

Pro tip for packing: if your festival outfits fit in gallon sized Ziploc bags and pack your outfits and accessories into Ziploc bags separately by each day, so that you won’t have to dig through your bags to find your outfits! If you are looking for cute festival outfits, homegameauction has you covered!

Photos by Divisuals

Personalize your camp for comfort.

Even though you will be spending a lot of time at the festival venue, your camp is going to be your home for a few days when you are at a camping festival. So why not make it comfortable and fun?

Bring an air mattress with pillows and blankets so you get a good night’s sleep even in chilly weather. Bring a flagpole and a flag for your favorite artist so you can find your campsite easily after a long night of going hard at a festival. Bring a canopy and some camping chairs so your camping squad has a shaded and comfortable area to hang out before and after the festival. Decorate your camp area with some tapestries and fairy lights. There is so much room for creativity to make your campsite your own home! 

Be prepared for any type of weather.

The weather can be unpredictable at times when you are at a festival, so it is important to be prepared for any type of weather when you are camping. Many summer festivals are hot, so be prepared by having lots of water and shade structures. Being layers and blankets in case it gets cold at night. Bring a poncho and tarp for your tent in case it's storming (this occasionally happens!) It’s good practice to be prepared for any type of weather so that rain or shine, you can still have the best festival camping experience.

Even though it is impossible to be prepared for every scenario while you are camping, planning ahead of time helps to avoid situations that could potentially be stressful. Hopefully these tips will help enhance your camping experience, and your camp will be your home away from home while you are at a festival!

Check festival rules for camping as well, some festivals have different guidelines so it’s important to be familiar with that before you get there. Make sure to grab your outfits and accessories at homegameauction while you are preparing for your spectacular camping festival experience!

Camping Festival Essentials

• Ticket (wristband)
• Camping pass
• Hydration pack or backpack that follows festival guidelines
• Kandi
• Wallet (with ID)
• Chapstick (Unopened)
• Gum (Unopened)
• Face mask (especially useful for dusty festivals)
• Portable Phone Chargers
• Flow Toys (some festivals don’t let people bring them in so make sure to check festival guidelines ahead of time)

Campsite Essentials

• Tent
• Canopy (Not necessary, but it can get hot sometimes so having one is definitely a lifesaver for shade!)
• Tent pegs
• Mallet
• Sleeping bags
• Blankets/Pillow (It can get cold at night, even in the desert)
• Air mattress/air pump (Not necessary but nice for comfort)
• Tapestries
• Camping chairs
• Flag (this will make finding your campsite a lot easier)
• Retractable flag pole
• Zip ties
• Scissors
• Tape
• Flashlight
• Lamp
• El-wire or LED lights to help find your tent at night.

Food Essentials

• Cooler
• Ice
• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Food
• Non-perishable Food (if you don’t have a cooler)
• Propane Stove (optional but it’s amazing to have)
• Dishes/Silverware (Bring reusable ones to be eco-friendly)
• Dish Soap
• Trash Bags
• Vitamins/Medication
• Alcohol if you’re 21+
• A Reusable Cup
• Paper Towels

Clothes

• Rave outfits (iheartraves always has you covered!)
• Accessories to go along with your outfits
• Comfortable clothes for your campsite
• Underwear
• Socks
• Sunglasses
• Warm Clothes 
• Face gems/ Glitter (recommend bringing bioglitter)
• Comfortable Shoes
• Shower Shoes

Toiletries

• Soap/shampoo/conditioner (a lot of festivals have showers that you can pay for, some will end up being free depending on the festival)
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Bugspray
• Deodorant
  
• Hairbrush/Comb
• Makeup
• Makeup Wipes
• Wet Wipes
• Toothbrush/ Toothpaste
• Contact case/Contact solution/glasses
• Face Wash
• Tampons/Pads
• Toilet Paper
• Hand Sanitizer
• Goldbond (it’s a lifesaver if you have issues with chafing)
• First aid kit

Remember, many camping festivals adopt a Leave-No-Trace policy and encourage festivalgoers to leave absolutely no trace behind. Once you've taken down your camp at the end of the festival, make sure there are no pieces of paper or plastic left behind (glitter counts!) and dispose of your trash in appropriate locations. Always leave the earth as you found it and have fun!

Fresh Pressed, organized by myLifeEveryDay and White Rabbit Group, was the first music festival planned in the area, and since it was a brand new festival, many music lovers in the Pacific Northwest were excited for the new experience. This was a two-day festival which happened on July 17th and 18th. The venue was a newly used venue, and the festival was held in a  field by the Tacoma Dome in Tacoma, Washington. There was a lot of parking in the area and the venue was easily accessible for a lot of people. There was a lot of room to dance and move around, and overall this venue seemed to be a crowd favorite. The festival was 21+ so the event consisted of an older crowd, which a lot of the attendees seemed to enjoy.

The lineup consisted of mostly house music artists such as Claud Vonstroke, Nora En Pure, SNBRN, Will Clarke, and other amazing artists. It was awesome to see some artists local to the Pacific Northwest such as Frida K and Johnny Monsoon on the lineup as well! 

Overall, the weekend was a success, and many people were very happy that Fresh Pressed was their first festival back after having no live music for almost two years. One attendee, Antonia Truong said, “Fresh Pressed was a great first festival to come back to after this rough year and a half. The music, vibes, weather, set up and crowd were all amazing.”

Another satisfied attendee, Amanda Tanadinata said, “Everything was very organized, cashless (which was amazing considering during this time around), check-in was quick and effortless. There were a lot of food and drink options as well, and there was shade provided in the back for us who were scared of the sun. [The] music and vibes were amazing all-around! It made the first comeback of festival season with friends such a memorable one.”

With the first festival back in the Pacific Northwest being a huge success, this brings a lot of hope for events that are being planned for the future. LED Presents looks forward to next year’s Fresh Pressed and more events in the near future!

homegameauction outfits seen at Fresh Pressed

@lil.trvp.unicorn wearing Dominate Strappy O-Ring Top

@domiix33 wearing Tempt Me Stud Two Piece Short Set in Neon Pink  Blossom wearing Dipped & Dyed 3 Piece Mesh Set

@sunflowerraver wearing Midnight Sparkle Rhinestone Underboob Corset Top and On The Prowl Mini Skirt

@ohmlivia wearing Rolita Couture Geo Shapes Utopia Wrap Top

Photo Credit: @liyakitten

Kandi Singles

Photo Credit: @kandi_diva

Materials:

Pony Beads
Decorative Beads (could be made of wood, glass, plastic, etc)
Letter Beads
Elastic String

1. Take your elastic string and wrap it around your wrist to see approximately how much string you will need for one bracelet. Cut the desired amount with some extra string so that it is easy to adjust later
2. Decide on a pattern that you want for your bracelet, or if you want any words on them. Some words I personally like to use for singles are “PLUR”, “rave girl”, name of the festival, or artist names.
3. Put the beads through the string. Put desired letters in the middle and equal number of pony and decorative beads on both sides of the letters. A good number of beads to have on a bracelet is around 30.
4. Tie the string off at the end, double knotting is recommended. Cut off excess string.
5. Trade your kandi with someone at a show or festival!

Kandi Cuffs

Since there are many types of kandi cuffs, here are some Youtube tutorials for them that are very easy to follow!

Rainbow striped peyote kandi cuff tutorial by Kandi Toybox

3D Cuff - [Kandi Tutorial] by Ginger CandE

X-Base Cuff - [Kandi Tutorial] by Ginger CandE

Photo Credit: @liyakitten

Perler Necklaces

Materials:
Perler Beads (usually sold at craft stores)
Perler pegboard
Pattern
Masking tape
Large needle
Parchment paper
Beads for necklace
Elastic string
Iron

1. Pick a pattern to use for your project. A good place to look for patterns are Google and Pinterest if you are looking for anything specific. If you are wanting to turn an image into a pattern, websites such as Beadifier lets you upload your own image to create a pattern.

2. Lay your perler pegboard on a flat work surface. Start with the dark outline first to make sure  your design fits on the board. If you have the large tub of perler beads, separating your colors before you start your project will make this process a lot easier!

3. Fill in the rest with your perler beads. You can either follow the pattern or be creative and use completely different colors.

4. Once you have all the beads laid out on the board and it’s ready to be melted, lay masking tape on top of your project. Go slow on this step (I’ve messed up many projects up rushing through this), and make sure you press down on the tape to make sure the beads are stuck to it. Use a needle and poke holes over the tape. This step is optional but highly recommended. Melting your project direct on the pegboard can warp your board over time. 

5. Slowly and carefully peel the edges of the tape off and flip the pegboard. For bigger projects, it’s highly recommended to flip your piece with cardboard on the other side for stability.

6. Lay your project on a flat surface with the taped side down and lay parchment paper on top of your perler. Plug the iron in and set it to low/medium heat and melt the beads over the parchment paper by moving the iron in slow, circular motions.

7. Once the beads are melted (the holes in the beads will look smaller), carefully take the tape off, flip your project and repeat step 6. 

8. Wait for perler to cool down. Put flat, heavy objects such as books on top of it so the perler will be flat when it cools. 

9. Poke two holes on the top of the perler, one on each side. Cut a long piece of elastic string and string it through one of the holes so the string folds in half. Put beads through both strings but make sure to leave some room at the end of it so you can tie it. Then string one side of the string through the second hole and make a knot. 

10. Your perler necklace is done! Take it to a rave or festival and trade it with someone you vibe with!

Road Rage Drive-in was an event organized by Detox Nightlife, and happened over two days on April 16th and 17th in Portland, Oregon. Tickets were sold by different zones with the Gold Zone tickets closest to the stage. The lineup consisted of artists such as Midnight Tyrannosaurus, Megalodon, Downlink, Hi I’m Ghost, and Stylust. There were several regulations to keep the event safe. People were told that they needed to wear their masks at all times outside of their cars, stay in their designated spots unless they were going to the bathroom or buying food, and no alcohol was allowed at the event.

I attended the event only on the second day on the 17th and had a lot of fun. The last event I went to before COVID-19 was Thunderdome in January 2020, so I was extremely excited to hear some live music since it had been over a year. I went with a group of five friends (including my husband and I), and we drove from Seattle to Portland on the 17th.

Since alcohol was not allowed at the event, we pre-gamed a little at our Airbnb and our designated driver was 100% sober. We got there an hour before the event started, but since it was a hot day we spent a bit of time in the car until the sun started going down. There were a few food trucks at the event, and one of the trucks was selling snow cones, which was perfect for a hot day.

Road Rage Drive-in: The Ultimate Drive-in Experience

It felt so good to head bang and dance! It also felt amazing to plan an outfit for an actual event, my whole outfit that I wore to Road Rage was from homegameauction. Some of my favorite sets that night were Stylust and Downlink, and the lasers during Downlink’s set were amazing and made me really happy.

Most of the items from my outfit came from homegameauction! Outfit details can be found on my Instagram, @loanabanana82.

Overall, I think this event was a success and was executed safely. Security was really great about enforcing safety measures, and I saw them telling people to wear their masks and go back to their spots a few times. The port-a-potties were extremely clean, and the ones that I went to had hand sanitizer and a washing station with soap and paper towels. I am extremely hopeful that events will start happening safely in the Pacific Northwest.

There is another event happening in Portland at the end of May, and hopefully more will happen in both Oregon and Washington as people get vaccinated!

Featured Photo: Detox Nightlife

Materials

All these materials were ordered from Amazon, but these can also be found at any craft store as well. 

• Pony beads (1 or more colors)
• Key Rings
• Elastic String (I used 1.2mm for this DIY)

Steps

1. The harness will contain three sections: the area around your neck, bottom of your neck to the sternum, and the area around your waist. Measure those three areas and cut the elastic string so that you have a little over double the length of those measurements. 

2. Start with the area around the neck. Fold the elastic string in half and string one pony bead (purple) so that it is in the middle. String three pony beads each of the second color (black) on each side of the purple bead. 

3. String one purple bead through both ends of the elastic string and three black beads through each individual end of the string. Repeat this process until you are at the end of the string. 
 

4. When you get close to the end of the string, take a purple bead and string it so it’s facing the same direction as the other purple bead on the opposite end. Take the other string and cross it through the bead and tie a knot at the end (double or triple knot it to make it secure). 

5. Put the key ring through both purple beads on the end to create an O-ring choker. 


6. Next, you will be working on the section that connects the neck section to the waist (bottom of neck to sternum). Repeat steps 2-4.

7. Put one end of the purple bead through the key ring connected to the neck section. Then, connect the purple bead on the other end through a new keyring. 

8. The last section you will be working on will be the waist. Repeat steps 2-4.

9. Connect both ends of the purple beads through the key ring on the bottom. 

Style it with your favorite outfit and enjoy!!

Instagram: @loanabanana82

With everything that has happened since June, it is more important than ever to elevate Black voices, especially in our rave community, and to continue to do so. 

It was hard to narrow it down, but I identified 8 Black ravers in the community that everyone should follow on social media. These ravers are talented individuals that use their platform to express their creativity and promote PLUR! I had the pleasure of speaking with them to learn more about their involvement and thoughts on the rave community -  check out their answers below!

@gaeaxnelle

@gaeaxnelle is one of the founders of @melaninravers, which is a brand that is elevating and uplifting Black Ravers in the community. She also uses her own account to model and promote positivity!

I would love to start a website similar to how our Instagram is run but with more things. A merch shop that sells Black artist's limited edition designs that showcase what Melanin Ravers is in their style and just another way for us to all connect. Also would love to do in-person interviews with Black ravers, performers, DJs- you name it.

My biggest achievement is providing a safe place and platform for my fellow beautiful Black ravers in a community most people forget was founded by us and also how far the name Melanin Ravers has gotten. I am my worst critic and I thought no one would really follow us; let alone see 5,000+ followers and the collaborations and acknowledgment from other EDM platforms is like the cherry on top of a sundae.

I would love to make it known that all we strive for is representation and for us to matter in this world, in and out of the EDM community. As I tell everyone, “You are loved, you are appreciated, and you’re seen.” 

@jadieboo_22

The host of @abtvibes_podcast, this babe is smart, bold, and beautiful. Plus, she has amazing taste in fashion! 

How/when did you first get involved with the EDM community?

I first got involved way back in 2012. I started getting into EDM music during high school and had a few friends that would tell me all about EDC. It was after watching the EDC 2012 aftermovie I decided that 2013 was the year I finally go. Literally changed my life forever!

Yes, unfortunately. I have been to a few shows over the years where there were some people in the crowd that would just push through without even saying excuse me. Seriously a simple "excuse me" or "my bad" goes a long way. Trust me, I get it. There is a ton of people and you want to get to the front to see your favorite artist that you've been waiting ALL night to see. But that is no excuse to be rude about it. Nothing PLUR about being a jerk.

Just treat others how you would like to be treated. Inside AND outside of the festival. The EDM community is known to be an extremely loving community, so everyone needs to do their part to keep that alive and not tarnish that reputation.

I honestly can't wait until I can step foot inside of a festival again. I miss my community as a whole SO much, but I believe we can and will get through these tough times together.

@basslollipopp

Talk about festie bestie goals! These two gals have the cutest instagram with awesome photography that showcases their festival adventures and beyond.

How/when did you first get involved with the EDM community?

We’ve always been into EDM separately but dived into the EDM scene together back in 2018 with Okeechobee Fest. It was our first festival together and honestly one of the best to date. The weekend started with Bassnectar and it was only up from there. Ever since Okeechobee we’ve been chasing wubz ever since.

If we could go back in time and chat with ourselves we’d say to remember the little moments. Time flies at music festivals. Between mind melting sets, great food, and the incredible company of your fest squad, three days starts to feel like three seconds.

Lastly, we’d like to say once festivals and shows come back, it's over for y’all! We’re coming back better than ever!

@aoisenko 

If you love both raving and cosplaying,@aoisenko is an amazing person to follow!

The largest project I've been a part of is creating my Cosplay Odyssey magazine. I've been making small magazines during my college years and the last one I made, I titled it Cosplay Odyssey because it's one of the best adventures I've had. It’s a self project created to spread cosplayers and conventions, and it's something I plan to continue creating for the community. If you are interested in the past issues, please feel free to check out the link.

Cosplaying and raving 100% has changed my life. Both of these communities gave me a place where I feel I really belong. I began cosplaying in 2013 and raving in 2017. With cosplay, I was able to express my love for anime, art, and photography. With raving I was able to feel free with the music and truly enjoy being a part of something so huge like Music Festivals. It’s truly an amazing feeling when you meet new awesome people and can vibe over a common interest.

Finals Thoughts? It would only be I hope that everyone can find their place in the world. A place where you can have fun and truly enjoy yourself. No matter what hobbies you like, no matter what you have going on. I hope to continue to grow and have fun with all those I am able to meet. Don’t be scared to cosplay or express yourself in the way you like. Always be your best self and live your best life.

@niasmilez

@niasmilez is beautiful inside and out, and shows off her amazing styles on her Instagram page. If you’re looking for inspiration for outfits to wear at festivals, check her page out!

What advice would you give yourself 5 years ago?

Stay true to yourself and love who you are, that way when the people you are meant to be with come along you can accept that love and pay it forward.

Yes, when I first got into the community I was met with a lot of gate-keeping online. I would join groups on Facebook to learn more about the culture and just see a bunch of people making jokes about how newer ravers did not know or respect the community. Also being a Black woman, I would often see people saying things I knew to be offensive but when I called them out- they used PLUR as an excuse for me to tolerate their micro-aggression. Raving and EDM started as a way for queer Black and Brown people to have an outlet since they were not allowed in “regular” clubs. 

The concept of PLUR is directly related to Black and Brown people fighting for their rights and is inherently “political”. However, this was never mentioned and often swept under the rug whenever the conversation of PLUR arose. It felt as if a part of the community was silencing me and my experiences as a Black raver. Claiming PLUR was nothing more than an excuse to live life with no personal accountability which doesn’t align with those principals at all.

Having big brands such as iHeartraves take a stand....is a huge step in the right direction. The community seems to be in a place where they are a lot more ready to listen to the voices and experiences of minorities in and out of the rave scene. Embracing this cultural shift makes our community grow in ways that didn’t even seem possible a few years ago and it’s amazing to see that. 

I would like to say thank you to all the allies that I have met in the community. Fighting for change isn’t easy but they are out posting, protesting, donating and being vocal about the changes that need to happen in and out of the rave scene. We need to normalize admitting that we don’t know everything. Normalize that it’s okay to be wrong and change your beliefs when presented with new information. That is how we help the community continue to grow. 

@kyrstin_nicolexo

@krystin_nicolexo’s outfits are always extremely beautiful and intricate. She’s well-known in the rave community for her modeling work that she has done with several rave brands. I definitely recommend following her if you are ever looking for outfit inspiration! 

I first got involved in the EDM Community in 2012. I was 18 at the time. Fresh outta high school. I've always been an indie rock girl growing up, however, my senior year I was introduced to EDM artists like Kaskade and Deadmau5 and that was all she wrote!

My first experience at a rave was Escape from Wonderland 2012 and I'd have to say it was probably the funniest, yet most rewarding moment in my life. I don't think I would be the person I am today without the experiences I've encountered over the years and the friendships I've fostered because of the lifestyle that has been engraved into this community.

I think all projects I have had the opportunity of working with have been exciting and also inspirational. I find that every new artist I have gotten the chance to know has been really close people in my life. I have always left a project feeling so humbled and motivated by the deep conversations that have been exchanged. I have recently been working with some companies on creating a bigger voice for BIPOC, with emphasis on mental health, as well as the Black Lives Matter movement. Being able to have a strong support system of active listeners, especially in the EDM Community as a whole, has been a lifesaver for me so I've been honored to create a space and work alongside others that want to see change.

@partyperry

@Partyperry is an amazing hooper and fashion kween! If you’re ever looking for inspiration about hooping or looking to learn, her page is full of amazing tips! 

I was raised in Las Vegas, so I always knew about EDC. I was watching the EDC Las Vegas live stream at 16 years old and I started raving by 18! My first rave was Life In Color with Adventure Club in 2014. I became a Kandi Kid and grew obsessed with rave culture! I spent hours on YouTube learning how to make cuffs. I still live by PLUR every day. My first festival was EDC Las Vegas 2015! I’ve been going to festivals every year since then. The EDM community introduced me to hula hooping and I have been hooping for 3 years now. Hooping is my favorite hobby and I teach beginner hoop tricks on my Instagram!

My biggest achievement is graduating college. I graduated from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas with a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration with a minor in Public Health. My dream job is becoming a Director of Operations or Human Resources in a healthcare facility. I'm currently studying for the GMAT. I plan to pursue my Masters degree at UNLV.

My favorite sub genres are dubstep, riddim, and bass house! Zeds Dead, SVDDEN Death and Snails are my go to artists. I just started learning how to orbit. Super excited to learn more different types of flow art.

@curvyravebabes

@curvyravebabes has always been very outspoken about increasing visibility for curvier women in the rave community, and has been an inspiration since day 1. She has worked with several rave companies to increase their sizing options so that curvier women in the rave community are also included, and her page @curvyravemodels is also working to feature plus-sized women in the community. Her personal outfits are always beautifully put together, I definitely recommend following both accounts on Instagram.

One of the most exciting projects I have ever been apart of is one I founded called @CurvyRaveModels. I started CRM in response to the lack of diversity we are subjected to in festival fashion. I always used the Curvy Rave Babes platform to advocate for brands to have plus size ravewear and the importance of booking plus-size models. At times it felt like our message was fallen on deaf ears. I was no longer going to sit back and allow these companies to erase plus size women and women of color. I took it upon myself to create these opportunities and imagery myself. I reached out to various brands I’m affiliated with to propose a collaboration in efforts to uplift and empower everyday plus size women who may want to model rave-wear. A lot of these women did not know where to start in terms of modeling or lacked the confidence to do so in the first place. I want them to have the full glam experience, with the services of hair and makeup artists to help them look as good as they feel. Alongside the experience of a fashion photographer to guide them in front of the camera, who will capture their essence and beauty. We held our first photo-shoot back in January at the Rainbow Bathhouse before they closed their doors for good. It was so inspiring and left an impact on everyone involved. We all worked so hard to make it all happen and had something incredible to take away from the experience; not just pictures. I want more women to feel that joy we had putting a photo-shoot together. I want more companies to see the impact they can make when they simply extend their sizes and give plus size women a chance. I look forward to the day we are permitted to get together again and rejoice in building our portfolio and creating more magic for CRM post COVID-19.

My goal for Curvy Rave Babes is to continue connect, inspire and reach more plus size ravers. To remind them that they also make this scene so great and that they are vital to the community. I am in talks with close friends who want me to start an ambassador’s program for our social media accounts and a grounds team for upcoming music festivals. CRB merchandise is also in the works. It would mean so much to me if I went to a festival and saw people wearing CRB shirts and waving CRB flags.

In closing, I would like to speak directly to my people because I know exactly how it feels to be ostracized and feel like you don’t belong anywhere. 

To the person of color who doesn’t always see someone that looks like them in the scene. That was me; I been there. I remember going to my first EDM concert and immediately noticing I was one of the only black people in the entire venue. It can feel awkward at times but please bear in mind the history of our culture. We are the blueprint! House music was cultivated and popularized by Black and Brown queer people of color which later influenced a lot of the EDM genres we listen to today. They can’t erase the past or continue to push us away from something we were already apart of. Continue being uniquely you and remember you are not alone in loving dance music and raving. 

For the woman that’s curvy, plus size, and chubby: we are here to encourage, empower and uplift you. We will remind you that you can wear rave-wear regardless of weight or body type. As we like to say at Curvy Rave Babes, festival fashion is for every BODY.

There are so many amazing Black ravers in our community, it was hard to narrow it down to just 8.  Do you know somebody that we should be following? Drop their Instagram handle in the comments!

Zip tie crowns have been a popular accessory over the last couple of years, and a few of my friends who enjoy DIY projects told me that they’re relatively easy to make for a reasonable price! If you’re looking for a sparkly accessory, this could be a perfect addition to your festival outfit.

Materials

I ordered all my materials from Amazon, but most of these can be bought at craft stores or stores like Home Depot.

• Pack of longer zip ties (The ones I used were 6in).
• Pack of shorter zip ties (The ones I used were 4in)
• Plain, silver headband
• Gold or Silver Spray Paint
• Accent beads (optional)
• Thick glue (optional)

How to Make a Halo Zip Tie Crown - Step By Step

Step 2: Add three more zip ties on either side of the long zip tie and make sure you cinch those tight so they stay in place. It’s important to make sure that all zip ties are facing the same direction.

Step 3: Add one longer zip tie on each end of the shorter ones. Repeat Step 2 and 3 until you cover most of the headband, but make sure you leave a few inches empty at the bottom.

Step 4: Prepare a space outside where you can spray paint your headband. Make sure you have newspaper or a plastic tarp to cover your workspace. 

Step 5: Place our headband on the newspaper and use the spray in short sweeps over the headband. Make sure you use the spray slowly, if you work with the spray too quickly it could cause the color to drip over the headband.

Wait for the paint to dry and flip the headband over to repeat the previous process. Once headband is fully painted, leave it to dry. (It takes 2-3 hours to be dry to touch, and 24 hours for it to be fully dry)

The last step is optional, add embellishments by glueing accent beads to the ziptie!

I know a lot of people have been at home for a while and are running out of things to do, so I hope this can be a fun project that you can work on to occupy some time!

If you want to look for ways to style this crown with your favorite homegameauction outfit, here is how I styled my outfit!

Photo from @loanabanana82

For many bass heads, Bass Canyon is one of the big bass events of the year that many are looking forward to. Coming up on its third year, Bass Canyon is three days full of headbanging, listening to good music, and seeing the beautiful views of the Gorge Amphitheater.

Visiting Bass Canyon and/or The Gorge for the first time? Have no fear, here are some basic things you should know about Bass Canyon to help you prepare for your trip!

Dates

Bass Canyon 2020 will be happening August 28th-August 30th.

Lineup

Excision made a post a couple of weeks before the lineup drop announcing that there was an Excision b2b  Illenium set in the works, raising excitement and anticipation for bassheads waiting for the lineup drop. The lineup has many heavy hitters such as BTSM, Champagne Drip, Ganja White Night (rumor has it that he will be closing out the second day!), Liquid Stranger, and many more! Excision also made a post on Facebook hinting at a possibility for a second stage with up and coming artists, Drum N Bass, and Melodic and Future Bass artists. There is definitely a lot to look forward to for Bass Canyon 2020. 

Location

Bass Canyon is held at the Gorge Amphitheater, which is around a two-hour drive from Seattle. If you are flying in from out of state, it’s recommended that you fly into Seattle-Tacoma Airport and drive to the Gorge from Seattle. You can also fly into Spokane International Airport and drive two hours from Spokane to the Gorge.

The Gorge Amphitheater is one of the most stunning music venues in the US. There’s a gigantic hill overlooking the stage with the canyons and lakes spreading behind it. It’s a venue that everyone has to experience once in their lifetime. Seeing a beautiful sunset set at the Gorge is a phenomenal memory that lasts for a lifetime.

Photo by Rukes

Tickets

Tickets went on sale on March 4th, and although VIP tickets have already sold out, GA tickets are still available, but are selling quickly!

Camping

If you are never camped at the Gorge, the basic options from cheapest to most expensive are Standard, Premier, Gold, and Terrace. This year they have added Safari and Oasis camping as well, which comes with furnished tents so these camping options are perfect if you are wanting to camp in style at the Gorge. Currently, Premier, Terrace, and glamping options are sold out, but the rest are still available. You can see the available camping options and their perks on the Bass Canyon website.

Be sure to check out this article for a Bass Canyon Packing checklist!

Photo Credit: Bass Canyon 

Even though a lot is uncertain right now, it’s important to keep a positive mindset and look forward to things. In the meantime, while you’re waiting for things to return to normal, please make sure you take care of your physical and mental health, wash your hands, and tune into some amazing live-streams that artists are doing to hold us over till festivals are happening again.

Hope to see you all at Bass Canyon 2020!

1. The Graphics and Stage Setup: It was worth getting to the venue for the first openers, since the stage was fully set up and utilized from when the first artist started at 6:30. Artist-specific graphics were used for every set, so it was great to see a lot of variety in graphics and stage production all night instead of seeing the same generic graphics. Although the graphics used in Excision’s new stage had a very similar style to the Paradox, everything was newer and bigger. 

Photo Credit: Turk Photos 

2. The Bass: Anyone who has been to an event hosted by Excision knows that he doesn’t hold back on the bass in his events, and Thunderdome was no exception! The bass in each set intensified through the night, and by the time Excision started, you could feel the whole venue vibrating from it. Liquid Stranger was the second to last set of the night on Day 2, and the bass was so intense that it felt like my soul was leaving my body.

The sound quality all night was spectacular, the venue was perfect to accommodate the amount of bass used throughout the night. One thing to note though, make sure to bring ear  plugs if you are going to the Evolution Tour! Ear protection is definitely important - I forgot to bring mine and really regretted it.

Photo by Rukes

3. The B2Bs: Thunderdome had many amazing B2Bs on the lineup across the two days. I always feel like B2Bs are a treat because sometimes you get to see two artists that rarely play together collaborate on a set. One thing that blew many people away when the lineups for the Evolution tour stops were announced was the number of artists that were doing B2B sets. My favorite set (besides Excision) was Kai Wachi B2B Phase One, since they both brought their best sounds together. 

4. The Lasers: The lasers from Excision’s set was the most memorable part of the night. Excision’s team brought a ton of lasers to the Tacoma Dome for the Evolution Tour, and this added a whole new component to Excision’s set that made it even more epic. The lasers were set up in a way that made you feel like you were surrounded by them, so even if you were short like I am, you could see everything very clearly.

If Excision is playing in your city for this tour, I highly recommend that you don’t miss this! I’m still in awe over the new stage set up, and still can’t get over all the lasers. I’m really hoping he brings this setup back for Lost Lands or Bass Canyon again!

Having gone to Resolution for the last three years, I’ve picked up some tips and tricks that will help you have the best time welcoming the new year!

1. Get to WaMu Theater early

Since New Year’s is the time when everyone is out partying, you will have a better time if you plan for traffic and lines and get to WaMu Theater early! If you already live in Seattle, you already know how bad traffic can be around major holidays, so if you are traveling from outside of Seattle, make sure to factor in the changes in travel time that could be caused by traffic. Getting there early will mean there is likely shorter entry lines and less of a chance that you will miss your favorite artists, so it’s definitely worth it!

2. Prepare for the weather

Photo by Parallax

Seattle is usually cold and rainy around this time of the year, so it is definitely recommended to bundle up. You may have to stand in line outside, so you will have a better time if you have a coat or rain jacket with you. However, since Resolution is indoors, and it could be a little hot inside, wearing layers is a good idea. Make sure to check the Rules and Safety page on the Resolution website before you go. There are lockers available there, so I highly recommend getting one ahead of time. You can get your locker for Resolution here.

3.  Drink lots of water

Photo by Parallax

Regardless of if you are drinking alcohol that night, it is important to hydrate. WaMu allows empty clear water bottles, so I always bring one with me to fill up inside! One of my favorite things about Resolution is there are a lot of water stations throughout the venue, so you absolutely have no reason to not drink water. You can also buy water inside, but it is free to refill your water bottle at the hydration stations, so that is definitely something to take advantage of. 

4. Don’t get hung up on the gold/silver theme

Although dressing up to the gold/silver theme is always fun, many people dress up in other colors as well, so if you can't find a favorite outfit in those colors you still have many other options! I have seen people get stressed out over choosing an outfit in these colors, but at the end of the day it's important to know that you will look amazing in whatever colors you choose to wear! iHeartrave's Winter Collection, Iccced Out has outfits in these colors, but there are also many other options so you have a lot to choose from. Also, be sure to check out this article that crafted Resolution outfits based on artists attending!

5. Find your friends for the countdown to 2020

Photo by Parallax

Even though Resolution is an indoor festival, it’s a multi-stage event so I usually split up from my group to see the artists I want to see. However, I highly recommend picking a meeting spot with a designated time so you can meet up with your friends before midnight when the countdown happens. It makes welcoming the new year so special to do it with your friends and loved ones, and it will make it a memorable experience!

Still have more questions about Resolution? Check out this blog post about logistical information regarding Resolution. 

Are you going to Resolution for the first time or returning again? Make sure to leave any questions you have in the comments if you are going for the first time, or if you are returning leave a comment with any other tricks and advice you have.

I will definitely be there again this year, and will be posting my outfit on my Instagram (@loanabanan82). Hope to see you all there!

Plus, the festival is in Canada so if you’re from the U.S., it’s an amazing opportunity to visit another country and travel to a new place. If you’re wanting to listen to some amazing music and find an extra way to celebrate before New Years, Contact is the place to be this year. Since the festival is almost a month away, here are some things you should know about Contact if you are thinking about attending this year.

Lineup

Contact Festival has been releasing amazing lineups the last few years, and this year was no exception. This year’s lineup is an amazing mix of bass and house artists, so there’s something for everyone that wants to attend. Single day lineups have been announced, and on Day 1, headliners Major Lazor, Kaskade, San Holo will be playing, and other artists such as G Jones, Said the Sky, Kompany will be performing as well. The headliners for Day 2 are Tiesto, Fisher, and Rezz, and other arists such as Dabin, Bonnie x Clyde, and Feed Me will be making an appearance. The festival has two stages with the Main Stage and the Fvded Stage, so there are many opportunities to check out both stages during the festival! I’m mostly excited for Major Lazor, Kaskade, Tiesto, Feed Me, Said the Sky, and Dabin. I have never gotten the chance to see Major Lazor before so I’m extremely excited to see them on a lineup, and Kaskade and Tiesto have always been my classic favorites, so I’m happy that I have a chance to see them again!

Tickets

Contact is happening on December 27th-28th, so this is a two-day festival. For attendees that want the full experience, there are two day GA and VIP tickets available, but for those who can only go for one day, GA and VIP single-day tickets are available as well. This is an all-ages festival, so there is no age cutoff for GA tickets, and VIP tickets are 19+ (The drinking age in Canada is also 19). VIP tickets get attendees several perks such a separate VIP entrance and line, VIP areas in the venue with bars and separate bathrooms, and a private coat check area.

Both single and multi-day GA and VIP passes can be bought on their website here, and VIP upgrades can be purchased at the venue on the day of the festival at the VIP guest service desk.

The Venue

Contact is held in BC Place, which is an indoor venue in downtown Vancouver. If you’re traveling from outside Vancouver, there are many hotels and Airbnbs around the area, so it is in a very convenient location.

Photo Credit: Contact 

Here are some tips about getting to the Venue from Contact Veteran's Themselves:

The venue is accessible by skytrain (public transportation), cars, and taxi. BC Place located next to a skytrain stop, so some Contact veterans have recommended parking at a skytrain stop for free and taking public transportation to the venue, since the train runs past midnight. -Farhan K and Courtney K (COED Ravepower Facebook Group).

For people driving to the festival, it seems like there is both street parking and paid parking garages close to the venue as well.

Here are some other things to know about the festival from fellow Contact Veterans:

-Lockers are available to buy online, and is recommended because of the weather. Click here to buy your locker! -Kayla E (COED Ravepower Facebook Group)

-Leaving the festival can be a little hectic so many past attendees have recommended leaving 10-15 minutes before the last set is done. -Martina W (COED Ravepower Facebook Group)

-There are usually some after-parties at local clubs and venues that get announced, make sure to keep an eye out for those! Clubs that usually hosts these are MIA, Celebrities, and Venue. -Nicole M

-The festival is space/alien-themed and since this festival is also right after Christmas, people get really creative with space and Christmas themed outfits!-Hera S  (COED Ravepower Facebook Group)

-Make sure to check the venue rules before the festival. Although they have not been posted on the website yet, keep checking their FAQ section closer to the festival.

If you are looking for something to wear to Contact, homegameauction is coming out with their NYE Collection soon, so keep an eye out for that! The homegameauction team did a little teaser at Escape this year, and I absolutely loved every outfit they were wearing. Hope to see you all at Contact, and please leave a comment if you have any questions, advice, or tips and tricks to add to this!

I usually don’t consider myself a headbanger but Lost Lands was one of the best festival experiences I’ve ever had. Not only was the music and production phenomenal (the main stage, Prehistoric Paradox is the biggest stage I’ve ever seen!), but the dinosaurs and the vibes from other attendees really made the whole experience unforgettable. Here is a day-by-day run through of my experience at Lost Lands:

Day 1

I wore homegameauction for the 1st day, my outfit included Boa Babe Crop Top and Boa Babe Booty Shorts! I also wore festival braids for the first time so I was really feeling my outfit this day. Since it was the first day, my group and I decided to get there a little early to figure out the parking situation and explore the VIP areas a little bit. 

The day started out strongly with an amazing set by Subtronics, and I got to see Ghastly, BTSM, Zeds Dead, Excision himself, and Rusko. Ghastly’s set was especially memorable since he mixed a little bit of house music with dubstep, and I absolutely love house music.

My highlight from Day 1 was being able to see SKUDDA, who won the Producer’s Den Remix Contest play after Excision’s set on the mainstage. Even though I was really tired at this point and my body hurt from the long day, I went the hardest during this set. 

Day 2

My group decided to take Day 2 a lot easier since we were all the most excited for the Day 3 lineup and we wanted to conserve our energy for that day. We got into the festival around 5pm, and got to start with an amazing set by Sullivan King, and saw Boogie T. RIO, 1788-L, Dion Timmer, Liquid Stranger, and ended with Ganja White Night. My favorite set of the day was Boogie T. RIO, just because I really liked the jam-band feel from the set, and it was a nice break from listening to hard dubstep. However, Liquid Stranger was a close second for me, since the lasers and visuals used during this set were breathtaking. 

Since Lost Lands is well known for the dinosaur displays throughout the festival, we also got a lot of pictures when we got in for Day 2. All the displays were almost life-like in size and ranged from human-sized dinosaurs like velociraptors to building-sized long-necked brachiosaurus. The consistency of the dinosaurs and the pre-historic theme throughout the festival really made Lost Lands unique for me, and it was amazing to explore and see everything when I needed a break from the music.

Photo Credit: Lost Lands/Julian Bajsel 

Day 3

Since this was the last day, my group got in around 2PM so we could explore parts of the festival we hadn’t seen yet. Our first stop was The Cavern of Illusions, which was art and audio display shown in a dome with a 360-degree view. The featured art was drawn by Andriod Jones, and it was an amazing way to start out the final day.

I was looking forward to the music from Day 3 the most. We started out with LSDREAM and saw Figure b2b Protohype, Dirt Monkey, Said the Sky b2b Dabin, Excision detox set, Peekaboo, Slander b2b Spag  Heddy, and Excision b2b Illenium. Being able to see the four b2bs were a huge treat for me, especially since they were all very different sets that I would probably never get to see again. My favorite non-b2b set was Peekaboo, it was my first time seeing him and I really enjoyed his set. My favorite set overall is tied between Spag Heddy b2b Slander and Excision b2b Illenium. Excision b2b Illenium was such an epic way to end the weekend, and I had such an amazing time headbanging and singing along to the music with my friends.

My group decided to do VIP for Lost Lands since it was our first time there and other friends who had previously gone recommended it. VIP had amazing perks such as a separate VIP entrance line, VIP viewing areas, VIP food and alcohol vendors, and air-conditioned flush bathrooms. The VIP viewing areas were especially nice since there was a lot of room to headbang and dance. One of the areas had seats for people that wanted to rest while the other one was grassy, so both VIP areas were ideal if we wanted to take breaks during some sets. I got a lobster BLT from one of the VIP food vendors at the Wompy Woods stage on Day 3, and it was AMAZING. The air-conditioned bathrooms were also a godsend since Day 2 was very hot and humid and it was nice to be able to cool down a little bit. Overall, even though I would have still had an amazing time doing GA at Lost Lands, I definitely would say VIP was worth it for this festival.

Lost Lands was such an amazing experience, and I definitely want to go back again next year. This was my second festival in the Midwest, and one thing I noticed was the vibes from both the staff and the attendees there were amazing and everyone was extremely nice. If you have any questions about traveling to Lost Lands, please leave a comment, and I will also be updating my Instragm @loanabana82 and will be talking about my experiences there. Hope to see you at Lost Lands next year!

There are so many options for what you could wear to Lost Lands: you could stick to the dinosaur theme, wear all black for a bass babe look, or a neon or holographic cyber look.

If you are stuck on what to wear at Lost Lands, here’s some Lost Lands outfit inspiration:

• Neon Vibes
• Dinosaur Inspired Accessories and Tees
• Chains and Harnesses
• Animal Print
• All Black

Neon Vibes

Stand out in the crowd with a neon look! homegameauction has tons of neon options including sets, bodysuits and neon accessories. 

Break the Matrix Ultra Long Sleeve Crop Top, Break the Matrix High Waisted Harness Booty Shorts

Get Lost Outfit

Dinosaur Inspired Accessories

Add some dino-mite accessories to your outfit that are totally on theme with these dinosaur inspired pasties and seamless masks!

T-Rex Seamless Mask Bandana

T-Rex Pasties

Dinosaur Graphic Tees

Whether you want to coordinate outfits with your Rave Bae, or if you’re just searching for a comfy tee/tank top to wear to Lost Lands, be sure to check out our Men’s Tees and Men’s Tanks sections for dino-inspired designs!

Chains & Harnesses:

If chains and harnesses excite you, then you're in luck. homegameauction has tons of options when it comes to these essential accessories. Pair the look with some chunky boots and cute pasties, and you'll be one fierce babe!

  Mystic Madness Chain Harness Top, Neva Nude T-Rex Pasties Electric Snake High Waisted Bottoms, Demonia She's No Angel Black Patent Boots  

Animal Print

Snakeskin print is always fun to play around with, and how fitting is it that it goes with the dinosaur theme for Lost Lands? This chic look is perfect for all of you that want to look stylish and fierce at the same time. You can also play around with different animal prints to become a creature of Legend Valley. 

All Black

For a sleek and sexy bass-babe look, combine elements of different black fabrics together, along with chains and harnesses. Try fishnet and faux leather together for an ultra baddie look!

Naughty Net Outfit

No matter what you end up wearing, you’re sure to have a blast hanging out with your best friends amongst a land full of giant f@cking dinosaurs, 1,000,000 watts of bass and one of the best bass lineups of all time! Don’t forget to check out our article about packing for Lost Lands.

What are you waiting for? Grab your outfit and Lost Lands tickets before it’s too late! See you in Legend Valley!

Here are step-by-step instruction on how to make kandi, specifically how to make perlers to take to your next rave!

Materials:

• Perler Beads (usually sold at craft stores, sometimes called hamma beads)
• Perler pegboard
• Pattern Masking Tape
• Needle
• Parchment Paper
• Beads for necklace
• String Iron

1. Pick a pattern to use for your project.

A good place to look for patterns are Google and Pintrest if you are looking for anything specific. If you are wanting to turn an image into a pattern, websites such as Beadifier lets you upload your own image to create a pattern. For the purpose of this article, I created a unicorn perler necklace. 

2. Lay your perler pegboard on a flat work surface.

Start with the dark outline first to make sure your design fits on the board. If you have the large tub of perler beads, separating your colors before you start your project will make this process a lot easier!

3. Fill in the rest with your perler beads.

You can either follow the pattern or be creative and use completely different colors!

4. Lay masking tape on top of your project.

Once you have all the beads laid out on the board and it’s ready to be melted, lay tape down carefully. Go slow on this step (I’ve messed up many projects up rushing through this), and make sure you press down on the tape to make sure the beads are stuck to it. Use your needle and poke holes over the tape. This step is optional but highly recommended. Melting your project directly on the pegboard can warp your board over time.

5. Slowly and carefully peel the edges of the tape off and flip the pegboard.

For bigger projects, it’s highly recommended to flip your piece with cardboard on the other side for stability.

6. Lay your project on a flat surface with the taped side down and lay parchment paper on top of your perler.

Plug the iron in and set it to low/medium heat and melt the beads over the parchment paper by moving the iron in slow, circular motions.

7. Once the beads are melted (the holes in the beads will look smaller), carefully take the tape off

Flip your project and repeat step 6 and 7. Wait for peler to cool down. Put flat, heavy objects such as books on top of it so the perler will be flat when it cools.

8. Poke two holes on the top of the perler, one on each side.

Cut a long piece of elastic string and string it through one of the holes so the string folds in half. Put beads through both strings but make sure to leave some room at the end of it so you can tie it. Then string one side of the string through the second hole and make a knot. Your perler necklace is done! Take it to a rave or festival and trade it with someone you vibe with! 

My whole outfit was from homegameauction for Day 2!

The homegameauction Unicorns looking beautiful in their matching outfits!

@justanotherravegirl celebrating her graduation the right way!

Wild Side Crop Top, Holographic Flame Thong Bottoms, and Studded Garter Belt Harness

@tiny.tigerrr brought the neon vibes! 

Charged Up Ultra Booty Short, After Glow Fishnet Halter Top

@dinamo155 lookin' cool AF while staying warm.

J. Valentine Light Up Fur Jacket

@kianas.gram rocking the cowboy trend!

@yasmeenchatelle looked absolutely stunning in this vibrant set.

Into the Void Sporty Crop Top, Into the Void Booty Shorts

@sunflowerraver looking like a beautiful cyber princess

Techno Freak Visor, Speed Of Sound Neon Contrast Set, Neon Fishnet Thigh Highs

@plur.elise looking pretty in black!

Stargazer Mesh Bell Bottoms, Super Strappy Criss Cross Top

@triipyunicorn with elements of black and a splash of color with those trippy bottoms!

Liquid Tripp High Cut Booty Shorts, Unrestrained Fishnet Triangle Top, Spandex Diamond Net Tights

@tessla_venus lighting up the Gorge in this prettier than pink, rave princess outfit!

Time to Fly Mesh Maxi Skirt (Photo Credit: Parallax)

@tinydancer_88 dressed in sparkle and glitz!

Are you wearing any homegameauction to festivals this summer? Don’t forget to tag @iheartraves and @ihrstyled  and use #iHRstyled on your Instagram pictures so we can see your beautiful outfits!

Paradiso Festival Essentials

• Ticket (wristband)
• Camping pass (Don't forget, in addition to your ticket, a SEPARATE camping pass must be purchased per vehicle entering the event!!)
• Hydration pack
• Kandi
• Wallet (with ID)
• Chapstick (Unopened)
• Gum (Unopened - you cannot bring opened packs into the fest, so pack accordingly!)
• Portable Phone Chargers
• Flow Toys (flow toys except gloves are allowed)

Campsite Essentials

• Tent
• Canopy (Not necessary, but it can get hot sometimes so having one is definitely a lifesaver for shade!)
• Tent pegs
• Mallet
• Sleeping bags
• Blankets/Pillow (It can get cold at night)
• Air mattress/ air pump (Not necessary but nice for comfort)
• Tapestries
• Camping chairs
• Zip ties
• Scissors
• Tape
• Flashlight
• Lamp
• Facemask

Food

• Cooler
• Ice
• Water (Bring a lot of this)
• Non-perishable food (if you don’t have cooler)
• Propane stove (optional but it’s amazing to have)
• Dishes/Silverware (Bring reusable ones to be eco-friendly)
• Dish soap
• Trash bags
• Vitamins/ Medication
• Alcohol if you’re 21+
• Paper Towels

Clothes

• Rave outfits (homegameauction has you covered with Paradiso Outfit Ideas!)
• Lounge Clothes for campsite
• Underwear
• Socks
• Sunglasses
• Warm Clothes
• Face gems/ Glitter (recommend bringing bio-degradable glitter)
• Comfortable Shoes (Check out homegameauction rave shoes section for some comfortable, cute, and affordable sneaker options)
• Shower Shoes

Toiletries

• Soap/shampoo/conditioner (Shower at GA costs a little money but are free at Premier, Gold and Terrace)
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Deodorant (IMPORTANT)
• Hairbrush/Comb
• Makeup
• Makeup Wipes
• Baby Wipes
• Toothbrush/ Toothpaste
• Contact case/Contact solution
• Face Wash
• Tampons/Pads
• Toilette Paper
• Hand sanitizer
• Goldbond (it’s a lifesaver if you have issues with chafing)

This is the general list of what you will need at Paradiso! If you forget something, a general store is available near the campgrounds, but be aware: it's much cheaper to bring items in yourself.

Have any questions about prohibited items and rules at the festival? Make sure to check on those here before the festival so you will be prepared. If you have any questions of any additional things that can be added to this list, make sure to leave a comment. Excited to see you all at Paradiso!

Last Updated: 7/3/19 by Leonard Pulig

Neon outfits can be worn in so many ways: it could be mixed with other neon accessories to make all the colors pop, or it could be toned down with black to create a fierce look. There’s so much room to experiment with colors when it comes to neon outfits, and it leaves a lot of room for self-expression when you’re choosing your outfits for music festivals.

Not sure how to style neon outfits and looking for some inspiration? Look no further! Here are some ideas on how to style neon outfits from homegameauction that will be turning heads at your next music festival!

Outfit Styling 101

First, let's start with outfit styling 101. If you're not sure how to start styling your own rave outfit and need help starting, here’s my usual process when I’m preparing my outfits for shows and festivals.

1. Figure out a color scheme or theme

The first step I usually take in my outfit planning is finding a theme or color scheme to narrow my search down. Are you going to a dubstep show and wanting to wear all black? Are you wanting a forest fairy themed outfit at Electric Forest? Sometimes if I find a favorite top or an accessory, I plan my outfit around that one piece as well. Having an initial plan saves so much time, and your wallet will be thanking you later.

2. Choose the main pieces of your outfit

There are several combinations of what you could choose for your outfit. You could wear a matching set, different top, and bottoms, a bodysuit, pasties with bottoms, the possibilities are endless. Choose outfits according to your comfort level, but don’t be afraid to branch out! I personally started wearing underboob tops recently, and even though I kept telling myself at first that it wasn’t my style, I instantly fell in love with them when I tried it out.

3. Choose your accessories

This is usually my last step since it gives me room to look at my budget and see what I can add to my outfit to spice it up. Face gems and glitter are my usual go-tos (if you’re looking for biodegradable glitter, homegameauction has a good selection!) since they are usually low-budget and face gems can be reused again. Harnesses, garters, fishnets, and leg wraps are other good items to add to your outfits as well.

Now that you have styling 101 down - here's some inspo for some diverse looks that are all focused around neon vibes:

1. Festival Fringe Outfit

Neon and black creates the ultimate baddie look! Radiate electric energy with this look: 

2. Wildside Neon Outfit

Animal prints are perfect when you want to bring your wild side out! Combining animal print and neon colors creates a sexy and vibrant outfit, and the Neon Zebra Sheer Mini Dress is perfect to wear at a festival or a night out!

Neon Zebra Sheer Mesh Mini Dress

Demonia Badass Chunky Platform Boots

Lunautics Neon Green Glitzy Glitter

Chain Of Command Harness

3. Sporty Spice Neon Outfit

Bring back the 90s with this sporty looking outfit! This outfit is perfect for you if you are looking for an outfit that is easy to move around in and you want to break a sweat while dancing the night away.

Neon Groove Crop Top

On The Brink High Waisted Shorts

Vibedration Neon Yellow Hydration Pack

Don't Say A Word Sporty Sneakers

4. Neon Princess Outfit

Looking for a flowy outfit that makes you feel like a princess? This outfit is perfect for you! If you’re a little intimidated by wearing bold, bright colors this is a great place to start. The neon accent from the skirt is subtle, but it definitely adds some spice to this outfit. Add the neon Lunautics face jewels and you are guaranteed to sparkle like a princess.

Cyber Cinderella Open Front Skirt- Neon Yellow

Let It Ride Faux Leatherette Bralette

Wild Side High Cut Bottoms

Lunautics Cosmic Crystals Alien Face Jewels

Demonia Black Holo Harness Platform Boots

5. Biker Chick Neon Outfit

This outfit will definitely make you feel like you’re on top of the world, with some neon biker shorts to help you dance with ease all night! Biker shorts is another festival fashion trend that has become popular recently, so you’ll look trendy and fierce in this outfit.

Do It Neon Biker Shorts

Double Check Cut Out Crop Top- Neon Yellow

Demonia Super Stacked Platform Boots

Can't See Me Winged Visor

What’s your favorite neon items currently available on homegameauction? Tell us in the comments. I’m excited to see how everyone styles their neon outfits this summer!