The Farewell Festival 2024 proved to be a memorable celebration of music, community, and (mostly) nice weather. From the fantastic lineup to the improved traffic situation, this year’s event was a testament to the festival’s growth and dedication to creating a top-notch experience for festival-goers. Here’s a recap of the highlights from each day.
Day One: A Stellar Start
The festival kicked off under perfect weather conditions, making it easy for attendees to soak in the sun and enjoy the music. One of the biggest improvements from last year was the traffic as well as easy navigation and attentive security. Gone were the long waits and frustrating lines; this year’s logistics were smooth and efficient.
The vibes on day one were electric. Security was on point, not just in terms of safety but also in their customer service—handing out free water to those eagerly waiting for their favorite acts. This thoughtful gesture kept everyone refreshed and ready for their favorite artists.
The festival featured a diverse range of vendors, offering everything from unique art pieces and stylish merch to delicious food and refreshing drinks. Billy Strings, the headliner for the day, delivered a performance that was nothing short of spectacular. His virtuosity on the guitar and engaging stage presence had the crowd completely mesmerized. They ended up playing a little past their set times and had to be cut short, but that didn’t change how great the performance was.
A special shoutout goes to Colter Wall, whose set was a standout of day one. His performance was a highlight and showcased why he’s such a beloved artist in the country and folk scene, and was known with how big of a crowd showed up for him.
Day Two: Music Amidst the Smoke
Day two brought a different kind of magic. Shakey Graves took the stage with his signature blend of blues, rock, and folk, delivering an unforgettable show that had everyone dancing and singing along. His performance set the tone for what was to come later in the day.
Although the smoke from the wildfires in surrounding areas created a hazy atmosphere, it lent an ethereal quality to the sunset that accompanied LeAnn Rimes’ set. The stunning view of the sun dipping below the horizon added an extra layer of beauty to an already stellar performance. As the headliner, Caamp closed out the evening with an impressive set that was a fitting culmination of the day’s events. This was one of their first shows back after a break in 2023.
Day Three: Beat the Heat
By day three, the temperatures were soaring. However, the festival organizers were well-prepared, with misters and fans scattered throughout the grounds and plenty of shaded areas to cool off, and security was continuing to distribute water and ensuring that everyone stayed hydrated in the heat.
The standout performances of the day came from The Red Clay Strays and Sumbuck. Despite the weather, both bands drew a sizable crowd and delivered electrifying sets that had the audience fully engaged. Their energy and talent were undeniable, making their performances one of the day’s highlights. Kacey Musgraves was the headliner, and the crowd was stoked for performance.
Overall Impressions
The Farewell Festival 2024 was a massive success. The improvements made since the festival’s inception were clear and appreciated. It was evident that the organizers are committed to providing an outstanding experience.
The vibes throughout the festival were on point, and the dedication of both the artists and the festival staff contributed to an unforgettable weekend. As we reflect on this year’s event, we can’t help but look forward to what next year will bring. Central Oregon has become a vibrant backdrop for this festival, and we’re excited to see which incredible artists will grace the stage in 2025.
Until next year, Farewell Festival!
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