EDC 2012: A Fan's Perspective

As a first timer at the world-renowned Electric Daisy Carnival, I had no idea what to expect from the event. I had been to other EDM festivals, but for some reason I knew EDC was going to be in a league of its own…and I was right.

Pulling up to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, there was no indication of what was hidden behind the massive walls. All I was able to see were masses of people in the most ridiculous outfits eagerly lining up to enter the venue. It became clear to me that our love for Halloween does not end once we become too old for the tradition.

Once I passed through the doors and walked into the top of the raceway, I saw that EDC was going to provide enough trick-or-treating for all of us. 
I can honestly say the sight took my breath away. It was visually stunning, aesthetically pleasing, and appealing to all senses. The carnival rides, the vendors, the artistic structures and everything in between were above and beyond what I expected.

Don’t believe everything you see on T.V. kids… or in this case, the internet, because Youtube videos did not do the event justice. I most certainly did not expect the carnival theme to be carried out to such a great extent. Even the fireworks display was over-the-top and added a touch of magic as the lights lit up the desert sky, as the bass continued on below. 


Day Two came with disappointment, but it was something that was out of everyone’s control. Unfortunately, a vicious windstorm decided to arrive, and it threatened to tear down the stages and risk the injury of fans and DJs alike. Luckily the shows were able to run until about midnight, but for those out-of-towners such as myself, having the night cut short was a huge disappointment, especially considering Saturday’s amazing lineup. 


Not being a huge dubstep or drum and bass fan, I can’t quite comment on the quality of those performers. What I can say is that one of my favorite DJs overall was Dash Berlin – a definite crowd pleaser and what a show he put on! One of the worst all weekend, in my opinion, was David Guetta. A common complaint about him nowadays, but it must be said - it definitely felt like my younger sister’s iPod was on shuffle, and there was little to no energy resonating from the crowd as he spun (I wonder why). 


Overall, it was worth the experience. There is something to do, see, and hear for everyone in attendance. It cannot be called a music festival, because it is an event that appeals to both sight and sound. It is a place where childhood fantasies become adult realities, and the crazier you dress, the more normal you are. Who wouldn’t want to experience that? Until next time EDC…

Listen to Dash Berlin on Pulse Radio.