The Suwannee Hulaween Music Festival
A Festival Committed to Cultural Diversity and Innovation
By Gerard Jones, Managing Editor
South Florida is known for its vibrant music scene, and one festival that truly embodies
the region’s cultural diversity: the Suwannee Hulaween Music Festival.
Taking place from Thursday, October 26 to Sunday, October 29, 2023, at the picturesque Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park in Live Oak, Florida, this festival brings together people of all ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, and cultural backgrounds for a memorable experience. iPulse and Lynn University students were grateful to attend and celebrate multiculturalism and innovative art.
“This is my third year coming and every year I am more impressed than the last”, said Khalil Campbell, a Lynn alum. “It is beautiful to see all different types of people interacting in an environment that has this beautiful creative energy.”
At the heart of Suwannee Hulaween is the power of music and art to bridge cultural divides and foster a sense of unity. This year, the festival celebrates its 10th anniversary with an impressive lineup that showcases a wide range of genres, features renowned artists including The String Cheese Incident, Trey Anastasio Band, and many more. From folk-inspired melodies to pop beats, Anatolian rock/Turkish psychedelic sounds, and more, there is a musical experience for everyone at Suwannee Hulaween.
The festival also provides a platform for artists to showcase their work through interactive art installations, workshops, and community engagement initiatives. Painters, thespians, and lighting designers are just some of the various artist that create the “immersive art experience” at Hulaweens Spirit Lake.
Suwannee Hulaween is more than just a music festival; it is a community-driven event that encourages connection, expression, and collaboration – a mission and vision that Lynn University, renowned for its multiculturalism and innovation, shares. The university’s vibrant student body, which represents over 100 different countries, can find a welcoming and inclusive environment at the festival.
In addition, alumni, current students and faculty alike may find Hulaween an ideal place to be inspired by a range of artistic presentations at the festival. Whether it’s through performances, art installations, workshops, or engaging in conversations with fellow festival-goers, Lynn members can foster a sense of unity and nurture their creative talents. They may even consider submitting their various artwork as the platform allows
them to gain exposure, connect with fellow artists and festival-goers, and contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of Suwannee Hulaween.
“We think back fondly of all the people who have been part of the Hula journey with us, and how the team continues to learn and grow to elevate the experience and lineup every year,” said Michael Berg, Co-Founder, Brand Manager, & Talent Buyer for Hulaween. “We’ve proudly stayed true to this community and culture we are servicing and hope to keep doing that for at least another 10!”
In a world that is too-often divided, the Suwannee Hulaween Music Festival stands as a testament to the power of music, art, and community to bring people together. With its diverse lineup, inclusive atmosphere, and emphasis on creativity, this festival serves as an inspiration for both established and aspiring artists and like-minded individuals who see art and appreciate not only as a form of expression but also as that of community building and development. With its impressive line-up the Suwannee Hulaween Music Festival promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates diversity, fosters connections, and leaves a lasting impact on all who attend.
Above: Bright colors and festival-goers at the Suwannee Hulaween festival in 2021. Photo/T. Gracer.
