Throw on your favorite bandana and a pair of worn Chacos, and take a trip with us down the sunshine-filled memory lane that is Day In Day Out Festival. The weekend felt like driving down the coast at 17, windows down and CD mix made by your high school best friend on a loop, fully embracing the feel of a warm endless summer.
The headliners were kicked off with Carley Rae Jepsen leading the way on day one. The girls and the gays showed up and showed out for Miss Jepsen, as she brought the disco pop music she simultaneously embodied onstage. Friday night attendees told us they came just for her, as well as the ever-unique and eclectic Mannequin Pussy, who set the tone for the entire weekend by having the most fun possible on that stage. A special shoutout to Peach Pit, whose sense of humor between each song seamlessly matched the bright energy of their set.
Day two was headlined by Bleachers, who was mentioned by many to be the most fun set of the weekend. DIDO danced around together under the Space Needle, barefoot in the grass as diehard fans scream-sang the words right back to the band. Suki Waterhouse and Hippocampus came before them, with Suki playing ethereally through the sunset. The Hippocampus set embodied what can only be described as a Spotify Daylist by the name of “Happy Sunny Day.”
Day three closed out the weekend strong, with Washed Out bringing the psychedelic sunset Portlandia vibes. Attendees wished that Sudan Archives set had been moved to after the sunset, so that her theatrics and production could be appreciated to the full extent. Local favorites The Head and the Heart also brought a nostalgic aura that echoed throughout the crowd. Their excitement in playing a hometown set was palpable, and only added to their familial energy as a band.
All throughout the weekend, DJs were handed the stage between each artist to keep the good vibes going. Some carried better than others, with concertgoers joining in on heartfelt renditions of Chappell Roan and well-known remixes of ABBA.
We would be entirely remiss not to mention the fashion show that came along with DIDO. Styles varied from 1950s retro, to 1990s hippie, to full denim cowgirl get-ups. Everyone showed up and showed out despite the heat, and shared in the simple joy of dressing up.
The aforementioned heat was beat by EMT’s spraying any wanting attendees down with free sunscreen, and staff members of the Topo Chico airstream doling out bright sponsored wet cloths. Volunteers and staff members told us the crowd was significantly chiller this year compared to last, which may be slightly attributed to the abundance of THC beverages and tonics available throughout the weekend.
When asked about qualms, attendees mentioned their desire for more bathrooms, more water-filling stations, and a weekend (or at least day pass) wristband for those 21 and over. The venue was effectively split in half by the beer garden, which caused turmoil for those who’s out-of-state or Canadian ID’s were highly scrutinized every time they wanted to move between. The split did create a sort of family side vs. young adult side, which those with picnic blankets and young children appreciated.
DIDO brought happy tears, new friendships, and a whole lot of sunshine and laughter, with the indie kid that lives in all of us glad to be reborn again.
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