top of page

Woodkey: An Unforgettable EDM Festival in Carsonville, MI


Every summer, electronic dance music (EDM) enthusiasts from all around eagerly anticipate the arrival of Woodkey, a hidden gem of a festival nestled in the charming town of Carsonville, Michigan. This year, I decided to make the pilgrimage to Woodkey, and I can confidently say that it was an unforgettable experience filled with great music, good friends, and incredible vibes.


Camping with a View



The moment I arrived at Woodkey, I knew I was in for a treat. The camping area was strategically located within eyesight of the main stage, allowing us to enjoy the music from the comfort of our tents. However, I quickly realized the necessity of packing earplugs. The music blared on until around 3:30 am, and without those trusty earplugs, a peaceful night's sleep would have been impossible. The festival organizers provided ample space for campers, ensuring everyone had enough room to set up their tents comfortably. To battle the cold nights, a camping heater became our best friend, warming our tent and ensuring we stayed cozy throughout the festival.


A Diverse Musical Journey



Woodkey may be known for its heavy dose of dubstep, but it's also a haven for lovers of various techno sub-genres. My eight-year-old son and I both had a blast exploring the diverse musical offerings. From deep house to trance, the festival had something for everyone. The DJs and artists curated an electrifying soundscape that had us dancing for hours on end. It was incredible to see my son grooving to the music, and it was an opportunity for him to experience the magic of EDM in a safe and friendly environment.


Spreading Love with Kandi



One of the highlights of Woodkey was the sense of community and friendship that permeated the festival grounds. My friends and I came prepared with kandi bracelets and trinkets, a tradition in the EDM culture for spreading love and making connections. We met some incredible people, exchanged kandi, and shared stories about our love for music. Despite the few hundred attendees, the festival felt like a close-knit family, and none of the stages ever felt overly crowded.


The Crystal Method's Spectacular Set



Among the many talented artists at Woodkey, The Crystal Method stole the show with the biggest turnout at the main stage. Their performance was nothing short of spectacular, and the energy was palpable. The crowd had the biggest smiles and were the most active during their set. It was a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create unforgettable moments.


Things I hope to see improve

While Woodkey was a phenomenal experience, there are a few aspects that I hope to see improved upon next year.


Bathrooms: There was a shortage of bathroom facilities, and the portable toilets were not emptied daily, leading to them filling up rapidly. Fortunately, there were public bathrooms available as well.

Information: While we had a list of all the artists performing, we lacked a schedule indicating when and where each artist would be playing. This information may have been available somewhere, but it wasn't easily accessible, and my friends and I couldn't locate it.


Food/Water: While there were a few food vendors on the grounds, offering delicious options like tacos and grilled sandwiches, more variety would have been appreciated. Additionally, the festival's website mentioned a water refill station, but I never came across it. Thankfully, we had brought enough water to keep us hydrated.


Lighting: More lasers and additional lighting would have enhanced the visual experience. While there was some lighting at every stage, it wasn't as dazzling as one might expect at a festival of this caliber. Improved lighting along the paths to the stages is crucial for safety, as some areas were quite dark and difficult to navigate in the nighttime.


In the end,

Woodkey is more than just a music festival; it's a magical experience that combines great music, friendly vibes, and a sense of togetherness. My trip to Carsonville, MI, for this festival was a blast, and I'm already counting down the days until I can return next year. If you're an EDM enthusiast looking for a hidden gem of a festival, Woodkey should definitely be on your radar. It's an adventure you won't want to miss!

7 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page