Project Pabst returned to Portland, and it was a fantastic experience! Held at Tom McCall Waterfront Park on July 27 and 28, this festival brought together music lovers of all ages for a weekend full of music, excitement, and unique experiences.
A Diverse Lineup for All Tastes
The festival’s lineup had something for everyone. T-Pain’s performance was a standout, especially for the millennial crowd, with his throwback hits energizing the audience. Following T-Pain, Billy Idol took the main stage, drawing an older crowd who enjoyed reminiscing over his numerous hits. It was really fun to remember just how many massive hits he has created. Almost every song that started I heard someone say "Oh YEAH! This song IS Billy Idol." I really loved having a classic rock performer to draw crowds that don't generally come to summer festivals. The diversity in age range made the festival stand out compared to other similar festivals. Local band Glitterfox kicked off the second day with an incredible stand-out performance, making great use of the background screen and their motion graphics, and Big Thief delighted fans by debuting new songs. The penultimate act, Denzel Curry delivered an incredible performance at the end of the second day.
Surprising Highlights and Delicious Treats
A highlight of the festival was the pop-up dive bar, offering cheap PBR and featuring a record store inside. Another crowd favorite was the collaboration between Nicos Real Fruit Ice Cream and Not Your Father's Hard Soda Pop. I had the strawberry ice cream float with strawberry vanilla soda and it was exactly what I needed to bring me back to life on a hot summer day.
Venue and Atmosphere
While the venue at Tom McCall Waterfront Park was beautiful, many attendees wished for better views of the waterfront. The big fences blocked the scenic views, and several guests expressed hope that next year’s festival would better utilize the venue’s natural beauty. Other festivals that take place at this location have used the park's position right on the Willamette River to bring some of that natural beauty into the background.
The festival also featured fun photo opportunities, including a giant unicorn statue in the center of the grounds. The food vendors were a hit, offering a variety of delicious options that added to the festival’s appeal.
Overall, Project Pabst 2024 was a fun and memorable event. The diverse lineup, exciting surprises, tasty treats, and beautiful venue made for an unforgettable weekend. We’re already looking forward to what next year’s festival will bring!
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