Day two, Thursday, was the first full day of Boomtown 2024, and it brought the grand opening of the city, a lot of mud, but of course still a thriving atmosphere.
After my first night's sleep on the campsite (which was a cold night), I took myself to get my essential morning's coffee before heading down to the press tent.
I caught up for the morning, and then I went for another explore through Downtown village, and discovered a tent giving out free glitter. Of course, I couldn't say no!
READ MORE: Live updates from Boomtown 2024
Speaking with the group further, Climate Live, I discovered that their stall was more than just glitter and free temporary tattoos for festival goers.
You can read all about their outreach programme here: Climate Live giving out free tattoos and glitter at Boomtown
Not long after was the much awaited opening of the iconic city in Boomtown. Unfortunately, at this point it had started raining and my raincoat was back in my tent. I braved it in my jumper, and I am so glad I did because what was to come was quite spectacular.
As the gates opened, hundreds of people roaring with excitement entered the city, where audiences quickly gathered at various stages and a drumming band led a march around.
READ MORE: Boomtown 2024 day one review: the festival 'but not as you know it'
It was heavily raining at this stage but that didn't matter, everyone was immersed in the music and enjoying being present in the moment.
I can only hope the TikTok does some justice to the feeling that was shared during that time.
@hampshire_chronicle Hundreds gather in the rain to see the City open at Boomtown 2024 🌧️ #boomtownfair #boomtownfestival #boomtown2024 #foryou #foryou2024 ♬ Summer 91 (Looking Back) - Noizu
Leaving the city after an explore, I was soaking wet, and I knew my trusty Crocs would have to be swapped with my wellies.
The walk back to the campsite was something that can only be described as a slip and slide, each incline muddier than the last.
I took my coat and wellies and headed down to the Engine House where I enjoyed my favourite kind of music, with several instruments on stage including a flute and saxophone, and singer.
It was a real dancing in the rain kind of day!
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here