Boomtown 2024 day one review: the festival 'but not as you know it'

The day started on a positive note, I was delighted to not encounter any traffic on my way in, and managed to haul my bags from my car fairly easily.

I was lucky enough to use the artist's entrance, so I didn't have to queue for as long as I had anticipated. After seeing the endless queues from previous years, I was glad and eager to be able to get through quickly and start my Boomtown experience.

Quickly after passing through my gate and setting up camp, I noticed the sky was threatening to rain, but, determined to get outside, I headed towards Downtown with my raincoat. I met some friends along the way, and we ventured out to explore as a group. Luckily, it stayed dry all evening, if a little chilly.

READ MORE: Live updates from Boomtown 2024

Seeing the districts for the first time was surreal, people talk about it being a festival "but not as you know it", and this described my first impression perfectly. There were vibrant colours everywhere, but every district was completely unique; a different genre for each setting.

First, we walked towards Tangled Roots, an area shaded by trees but buzzing with festival-goers. It was only early afternoon of the very first day and yet it was becoming busier by the minute, despite the steep incline to get there.

After its welcoming first impression, we re-visited Tanged Roots in the evening, where we listened to reggae music under trees strung with lanterns and lights; full of life.

Hidden Woods was the second "city" we revisited in the evening, but it felt different as soon as the sun had set. It was louder, brighter, and like being in a club, but in the centre of a beautiful forest.

Hidden Woods (Image: Newsquest)

Coloured lamps illuminated the trees and the stage, although we were far back it was certainly not a disadvantage because the entire district was packed full, with people joyfully immersed in the music, seemingly without a care in the world.

The view from Hilltop (Image: Newsquest)

The highlight of the evening was seeing the iconic main stage from the hill top. It doesn't officially open until Friday, but seeing it lit up, with fairground rides, tents and hung lights was possibly my favourite moment from the first day.

I'm already looking forward to the opening ceremony of this unique festival on Friday, with days ahead of exploring each district.