After a turbulent 2023, which saw the Desert Hearts team scrap their multi-day lakeside plans for a city spin-off, the team behind the quirky, transformative festival is gearing up for an all-new experience in 2024.
This year's Desert Hearts Festival, taking place July 4-8, will bid farewell to the Golden State and hop into the picturesque mountains of Arizona for four days of non-stop revelry. The picturesque venue, which is located 30 minutes from Flagstaff, will envelop attendees with its ponderosa pine forest 7,000 feet above the Grand Canyon State.
Speaking about the move from his former home in California, Desert Hearts co-founder Mikey Lion echoed the frustration felt across the industry. “The festival industry is at a turning point as it grapples with rising costs, market saturation and a stagnant economy,” he said. “Independent festivals and the communities growing around them are the heart and soul of the music world, but they are fighting to survive.”
With just under two months until the sounds of house and techno engulf the Coconino National Forest, Desert Hearts Crew has revealed the lineup of artists set to perform over Independence Day weekend. Notable artists include Walker & Royce, VNSSA, Mary Droppinz, Nala, Rinzen, Ardalan, Lubelski and Anja Schneider, among others.
Lion also emphasized the unique approach taken in Desert Hearts programming compared to other festivals.
“While many festivals focus on recycling the same hot artists to compete with festival giants, Desert Hearts is taking a different approach,” he explained. “This year our festival is focused on building our community, showcasing friends and family of the label, local DJ talent, and several of our favorite artists touring internationally… Basically, we're programming a 72-hour DJ set with the right artists playing the “Right music at the right time. Everything Desert Hearts Festival does is geared toward creating the best vibe possible, and on July 4 weekend, we're throwing the best party in the world.”
The Desert Hearts Festival will take place July 4-8 at Ponderosa Beach outside of Flagstaff, Arizona. For tickets, camping and other information, browse here.
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