Secret Garden Party ends 25-year festival by burning the mainstage

Secret garden party has announced the conclusion of its 25-year legacy with a dramatic and symbolic ceremonial burning of the mainstage.

On Saturday, July 27th, the Secret Garden Party’s 2024 Roots Edition executed a stunning finale that captured the essence of their creative spirit. Marking their 25th anniversary, the festival announced that this year would be their last in its current format. This farewell marked the conclusion of an era for SGP and its loyal attendees who have cherished the festival over the years.

True to their style, Secret Garden Party’s final event went beyond just entertainment to deliver a meaningful message to its audience. The festival’s highlight was an awe-inspiring drone show, a collaboration between Celestial and SGP, titled ‘Creativity Unchained.’ This was followed by a grand spectacle called ‘That’s Showbiz, Baby,’ produced in partnership with Acme FX and Immersive International, reflecting the vision of SGP founder Fred Fellowes and designer Nick Carter.

The event illustrated the challenges independent artists and festivals face due to corporate dominance in the industry. It emphasized the need to protect creative expression from being corrupted by major industry players. The dramatic ‘Burning of the Main Stage’ symbolized a need for change, suggesting that new creativity will grow from the ashes.

This year’s festival was a testament to the power of collaboration, with numerous independent festivals and event promoters joining forces. Shindig, NTIA, Cirque du Soul, and many others offered their support to SGP in the weeks leading up to the event. Fans from across the globe, including Australia and the USA, bought and donated tickets to those unable to afford them, turning the festival into a global movement to support the music scene.

In light of the recent challenges faced by the festival industry, Secret Garden Party plans to undergo a transformation, aiming to redefine the festival model. They will focus on fostering collaboration and unity among independent organizers, inviting other events and promoters to join their vision. This collective effort aims to strengthen the festival scene, ensuring its sustainability.

The final Secret Garden Party offered a diverse array of experiences. There was something for everyone from LED hula-hooping at the fire show and midnight playground to life drawing classes in the Bohemian Artist Studio and Mermaid School on the swimming lake. Despite their commitment to the ‘Drop a Headliner’ campaign, supporting independent artists, the festival still showcased exciting acts that united the music community.

Featured Image Courtesy of James Wick Photo