Electric Forest is one of the most unique and immersive music festivals in the world, attracting over 40,000 attendees each year.
Set in the lush forests of Rothbury, Michigan, this festival combines electronic dance music (EDM), live bands, stunning visuals, and an unmatched atmosphere of art and creativity.
Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a first-timer, Electric Forest is an experience like no other. Hereโs your ultimate guide to navigating this magical event.
1. What Is Electric Forest?
Electric Forest is a five-day festival celebrating the magic of music, art, and nature. Known for its immersive vibe, attendees are invited to explore the forest, enjoy live music from top EDM and live band acts, and experience the festivalโs unique art installations. Electric Forest focuses on creativity and community, with themed areas, interactive art, and plenty of surprises waiting for you around every corner.
Best For: People who love music, art, nature, and immersive experiences.
2. When and Where?
When: Electric Forest takes place annually, usually in late June. The festival lasts for four days, with an early entry option called “Good Life VIP” allowing attendees to enter a day earlier for a more relaxed start.
Where: Electric Forest is held at the Double JJ Resort in Rothbury, Michigan. The festival site is surrounded by dense trees, which is why itโs often referred to as โthe forest.โ
3. Tickets and Pricing
Electric Forest offers several ticket options:
- General Admission (GA): This gives you access to the festival grounds and camping areas. GA tickets include access to the music, art installations, and a limited number of special areas.
- VIP Tickets: VIP tickets come with additional perks, such as access to VIP-only viewing areas, better camping spots, and exclusive experiences.
- Good Life VIP Tickets: These provide the best experience, including early entry, VIP-only lounge areas, and extra perks like gourmet food, premium bathrooms, and more.
Ticket prices vary depending on the time of purchase, with early-bird prices being significantly cheaper than last-minute buys. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance, as Electric Forest sells out quickly.
4. The Music
Electric Forest is known for its diverse lineup, which spans EDM genres like house, techno, bass, trance, dubstep, and drum and bass, as well as live performances from bands and artists across various genres.
Headliners include top names like:
- Odesza
- Alesso
- Bassnectar (when he performs)
- The String Cheese Incident
- GRiZ
With dozens of stages and performances happening at once, youโll never run out of music to enjoy. The main stage is always a crowd favorite, but smaller, more intimate stages often offer unique experiences that are just as incredible.
5. The Forest and Art Installations
What sets Electric Forest apart from other festivals is the immersive experience of the forest. As night falls, the entire forest comes alive with vibrant LED lights, lasers, and art installations. You can wander through the woods and discover hidden art pieces, interactive installations, and mind-blowing visual displays.
The forest itself is filled with themed areas, such as:
- The Forest Stage: A stunning outdoor stage surrounded by trees and glowing lights.
- The Hangar: A dark, warehouse-style venue that hosts some of the festivalโs most intense performances.
- The Ranch Arena: A more intimate, bass-heavy stage located within a barn-like structure.
6. Camping and Accommodations
Electric Forest offers both general and VIP camping options. Camping is a big part of the experience, with attendees often setting up elaborate tents and sharing meals, drinks, and good vibes around campfires.
- GA Camping: Includes basic camping space where you can set up your tent. Youโll be surrounded by thousands of other festival-goers, so expect a lively atmosphere.
- VIP Camping: Offers better spots and perks like access to VIP showers and bathrooms.
- Good Life Camping: Offers the most luxurious experience, with premium camping areas, fancy lounge spaces, and gourmet food.
If camping isn’t your style, nearby hotels and rental homes are available, but they often sell out quickly as the festival draws near.
7. Food and Drink
Electric Forest features a wide variety of food vendors, from healthy options like fresh fruit and salads to indulgent treats like gourmet burgers, tacos, and pizza. There are also plenty of beverage stations offering coffee, juices, and alcoholic drinks for those looking to unwind after a long day of dancing.
Pro Tip: You can also bring your own food and drinks into the camping areas. Just be sure to check the festivalโs rules on permitted items before you pack.
8. Festival Tips
- Arrive Early: With so much to do and see, arriving early will allow you to explore the forest and music stages without the crowd rush.
- Stay Hydrated: The weather in Michigan can get hot, especially in June, so be sure to drink plenty of water.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking through the forest all day, so make sure to wear shoes that are comfortable for long periods of standing and walking.
- Be Ready for the Weather: The weather can change unexpectedly, so pack both sunscreen and rain gear to stay prepared.
9. What to Pack
- Camping Gear: Tent, sleeping bag, tarp, and camping chair.
- Comfortable Clothing: Think light layers, comfy shoes, and a hat for the sun.
- Portable Phone Charger: The festival grounds are massive, so keep your phone charged for photos, navigation, and meeting up with friends.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by carrying your own water bottle.
- Costumes and LED Gear: Electric Forest has a vibrant, playful atmosphere, so donโt forget to bring out your creative side with costumes, LED accessories, and glow sticks!
10. FAQs
Is Electric Forest family-friendly?
While Electric Forest is primarily an adult-focused festival, kids under 10 can attend for free if accompanied by a ticket-holding adult. However, keep in mind that the festivalโs crowd and atmosphere might not be suitable for younger children.
Can I buy tickets at the gate?
Itโs highly unlikely. Electric Forest sells out quickly, so it’s recommended to buy tickets in advance.
Are there age restrictions?
Electric Forest is an all-ages event, but alcohol is only served to those 21 and over.
Electric Forest isnโt just another music festivalโit’s an experience that blends music, art, nature, and community.
With its stunning forest backdrop, immersive art, and world-class lineup, itโs no wonder that Electric Forest has become one of the most anticipated festivals of the year.
Whether youโre there for the music, the art, or the adventure, Electric Forest promises to be an unforgettable journey into the heart of electronic music and creativity.
