Kaaboo Del Mar has recently released its stellar lineup for a brand new music festival scheduled for September 18th. SoCal now will now have their very own 3 day music festival at the Del Mar Racetracks. Many are thrilled to be able to participate in this event, but others worry about the consequences. It’s hard to know exactly what to expect from this brand new event.
Tickets for Kaaboo Del Mar went on sale on February 23rd. A standard 3 day pass is currently available for $269, though the price will rise to $329 at the main gate. There are various upgrades and specialized ticket packages, the VIP pass is priced at $2499. The festival is open from 11am-3am Friday the 18th through Sunday the 20th. The headline bands are The Zac Brown Band, The Killers, and No Doubt. Other popular artists include Snoop Dogg, Dirty Heads, and the Spoons.
One of the unique things about this festival is the focus on creating an exciting experience for everyone. There will be 7 stages and 100+ musical acts playing. There is also a comedian stage where 10+ comedians will be performing at various times throughout the weekend. Kaaboo is also taking pride in the cuisine they will offer, as well as contemporary art, dancing, and other “personal indulgences” according to the website. You’ll be able to get a haircut, a massage, or your nails done inside, as well as playing virtual golf or virtually surf. Much of the weekend is focused on comfort and relaxation, so one can expect to see a variety of nice places to hang out. There will be a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions and restaurants as well as places to clean off. This event will appeal to those commonly against similar festivals because Kaaboo is “anti-dirt” and promises to create an environment to avoid long lines and port-a-potties. The website describes Kaaboo Del Mar as being “Just right for grown-ups that want to join the perfect party, cut loose and have fun with a better level of entertainment experience.”
If there is one thing North San Diego County residents take away from the races and fair is the traffic. This is sure to be no different as we experience a huge wave of tourists on the road. Another thing that worries people is the fact that many teens may be skipping school in order to attend this large event. The event is advertised as being open to all ages, and people aged 3-10 get half price tickets. Attendees under age 18 must attend with a legal parent or guardian. This seems like a good way to control younger participants, but a parent at CCA wonders how well they’ll be able to enforce the rule. There is also a huge concern that students at nearby high schools and colleges will be subject to large amounts of drugs and alcohol at the festival. Kaaboo Del Mar’s website does show that alcohol and drugs cannot be brought into the event. Any and all outside food and beverages are prohibited.
Overall it seems as though Kaaboo will be a fun experience for all, void of much “adolescently manic.” It seems like a controlled, mature music festival that will differ from other popular events like Coachella. It will be interesting to see what people think of the new show, and how it will progress in the future.
Tickets are now on sale at kaaboodelmar.com.
Jessie McConville is a Staff Writer for Pulse Magazine.