You know the feeling. Some music festivals leave you exhausted, dehydrated and in immediate need of a much quieter getaway. Hangout is not that festival. Here's a weekend that feels like a music festival AND a true-blue vacation. If you're an avid beachgoer, don't even wait for the 2019 lineup drop- just take my advice and get your tickets now. This is the sunniest, sandiest, flip-floppiest festival you're going to find.
The Hangout Music Festival originated on the beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama back in 2010. That first year was hindered by the BP oil spill, so it's a wonder that this show ever really got off the ground at all. But chalk it up to the buoyant spirit of the Gulf Shores region, Hangout powered though disaster.
The early years saw a lot of jam-band heartland acts like Gov't Mule, The Black Crowes and The Avett Brothers. And in recent years, the growth of this event has been nothing short of amazing. Like any major fest, you can now find multiple stages hosting dozens of acts. This year's bright spots included The Killers, The Chainsmokers, Cold War Kids, Portugal The Man and Bleachers. I got to see Greta Van Fleet live from the patio of a little tiki bar (!) I also got to see Grouplove crush a set inside of a dance tent (!!) Thank God somebody is still programming a fest full of amazing surprises, instead of just stacking crowds in front of a hot sweaty stage.
Just a few reminders:
SECURITY: There's plenty of great food and drinks to be had, but security has gotten pretty strict as to what you can bring through the gates, so be prepared to spend some money inside. The mid-way boardwalk area is loaded with just about every kind of menu imaginable. There are artisan tents as well, t-shirts, jewelry, artwork, novelty things and souvenirs.
LODGING: Can be tricky on short notice- so plan ahead and book your rooms early in the year. Many Hangout devotees book lodging a full year in advance. If you act early enough, it's possible to get a good price on a beautiful place that's walking distance to the fest- but again, only if you act early!
SHADE: Is at a premium, especially at high noon. Brick sunblock, and if possible- set up shop under the shade of a tree or awning. You might see festivalgoers fashioning some shelter out of sheets or tapestries- not a bad idea for staying cool if you're there for, say, a 2PM set.
PARKING: Is relatively convenient, but priced at a premium. You will pay 25$ or more to park at the show each day. Or you can invest in a wristband for the shuttle service, which runs regularly, but is generally packed at the end of each night. Better still, if you do find that primo lodging option, walk down the beach and you're home.
Overall, Hangout is a fantastic festival in an awesome location- well worth the trip at a very reasonable price. It's a far more relaxing trip than some other major festivals, and in a beautiful little part of the world. -BRI