The wait was finally over. The number of vaccinations reached a high enough level for party people to converge at our hallowed ground again. Beyond Wonderland at The Gorge finally happened. Maybe you went to experience the magic firsthand, or maybe you’re like me in that you had to miss out. Either way, we can reflect back on what that experience was like for those lucky few!
One of the stars on our team of music lovers, Rikki Jenkins, was amongst those lucky few. She told me about the experience in the best detail she could so that we could pass it on to the world. Another lucky attendant was my fiancée Laura, who saw the second day with her coworker. Through recounted experiences like these, however, it is almost as if part of me lived it myself.
Beyond Wonderland at The Gorge 2021
Orhun ‘Turk’ Uygur for Insomniac Events
Entering Beyond Wonderland
The first thing that party goers noticed was the Alice in Wonderland styled art. Walking through the gates, the obligatory photo that most attendees took for Paradiso in years past featured the early 2010s logo and designs. Now that Insomniac is hosting major festivals here, scrolling through Instagram shows how updated the artwork is.
Rikki mentioned that she felt the digital-meets-nature aspect of Paradiso was something she missed. Insomniac enlisted the help of dancers and other creative people to wander festival grounds, where there were many photo opportunities and crowd engagement.
Orhun ‘Turk’ Uygur for Insomniac Events
Another observation was that the weather was much colder as this year it was pushed to October. Thankfully, Insomniac is bringing back Beyond Wonderland at The Gorge in June for 2022 and most likely every year that follows.
Instead of packing sweats, next year we are definitely going to have to bring sunscreen and very light clothing. In fact, almost everyone and their brother donned onesies to fight off the cold. Insomniac braced for this and added a heating tent for party goers, the exact opposite of summer shows where you would see cooling tents.
Ivan Meneses for Insomniac Events
Experiences at Beyond Wonderland
It wouldn’t be a “summer” festival at The Gorge without rides, and Insomniac helped us out on that front. Arriving early to the show removes the need to wait in lines. Rikki did mention that she wished there were more rides to choose from. Laura on the other hand mentioned that ride times felt longer.
As for food options, the cast of characters did change from last season. Poutine is a wonderful addition, but no Cheese Pit grilled cheese near camp.
Ivan Meneses for Insomniac Events
Music at Beyond Wonderland
When it came to the acts, Insomniac went far and above any other electronic festival this season in the PNW. Alison Wonderland, who I mentioned in our hype piece, was a crowd favorite for sure. She was at the last Paradiso ever, and it was great to have her at the first Beyond Wonderland at The Gorge, celebrating the new chapter of festivals in our neck of the woods. While the crowd was a bit chilly, they were geeking over her unreleased music and refused to leave the festival.
Ivan Meneses for Insomniac Events
Another crowd favorite was The Chainsmokers, who haven’t been able to play many festivals since the pandemic began. They began their set by shouting, “what’s up Paradiso!?” It had been five years since they played at The Gorge but they didn’t skip a beat, jumping straight into the party vibe they are renowned for.
Ivan Meneses for Insomniac Events
Underdogs for the show included 3lau and Loud Luxury, who also put on fantastic sets. Whipped Cream stood out to Laura as she doesn’t listen to much bass music, but still enjoyed the vibe. Additionally, Lucii threw in a bit of psytrance. Local artist Kendoll also brought the fire, which inspired two fans to bust out easels and paint the scene. I can’t say if I’ve ever heard of artists painting and sketching during the show, but I’m completely down!
Gabe Tiano for Insomniac Events
The Perfect Beyond Wonderland Premiere at The Gorge
Insomniac is a welcomed new champion for Seattle shows. Beyond Wonderland at The Gorge will continue to inspire us for years to come. Later this month, be sure to check out Boo! at the WaMu in Seattle. While there hasn’t been confirmation of additional massives this year, be on the lookout for any New Year’s Eve announcements as well.
And, stay tuned with Respect My Region for Rikki’s upcoming Party Favor interview post!
