When we first received our media invitation to Electric Forest 2026, we knew we were about to cover one of the biggest music festivals in the country. What we didn’t expect was how quickly the festival would change our perspective on what a music festival could be.
After spending four days in Rothbury, Michigan, we left with thousands of photos, hours of video, tired feet, and memories that will stay with us for a long time. Electric Forest isn’t simply a lineup of artists or a collection of stages—it’s an experience that begins the moment you arrive and doesn’t really end until you’re driving home.
One of the biggest surprises of the weekend was our first experience with car camping. We had never camped at a music festival before, and honestly, we weren’t sure if we would enjoy it. By the end of the weekend, we completely understood why so many people recommend it.
Having our campsite just a short walk from the festival made everything feel easier. Instead of worrying about traffic, parking, or driving back to a hotel every night, we could take breaks whenever we needed to, grab something to eat, recharge our camera batteries, and head right back into the festival. It made us feel like we were truly living the Electric Forest experience instead of simply attending it.
What surprised us even more was the sense of community inside the campground. Neighbors introduced themselves, people helped each other with tents and supplies, and everywhere you looked there were conversations between complete strangers who quickly became friends. It felt welcoming from the very first day.
Of course, the music was incredible. Seeing thousands of people gathered beneath the trees while world-class artists performed on beautifully designed stages is something we’ll never forget. But if we’re being honest, the artists weren’t what made Electric Forest so special for us.
It was everything happening between the sets.
Walking through Sherwood Forest and discovering new art installations. Watching painters create live murals throughout the day. Running into performers dressed as fairies, mythical creatures, and characters that looked like they belonged in another world. Finding hidden spaces filled with lights, music, and interactive experiences that you would never expect to see at a festival.
Every time we thought we had explored the entire forest, we would turn a corner and discover something completely new.
Another thing that stood out was the people. Electric Forest attracts one of the most creative communities we’ve ever photographed. The outfits, the handmade costumes, the kandi bracelets, the smiles, and the willingness of complete strangers to stop for a photo or simply start a conversation created an atmosphere that felt incredibly genuine.
As media, we spend a lot of time looking through a camera lens, but Electric Forest constantly reminded us to put the camera down for a few minutes and simply enjoy the moment. Sometimes the best memories weren’t the ones we photographed—they were the ones we experienced.
One question we’ve received throughout the weekend is why We Like Indy is covering a festival in Michigan.
The answer is simple.
Indiana will always be our home and our main focus, but we also want to inspire our community to discover incredible experiences that are just a road trip away. Not every unforgettable adventure requires a flight or a long vacation. Sometimes, it’s only a few hours from home.
So, is Electric Forest worth the drive from Indiana?
Without a doubt, yes.
Whether you love live music, art, camping, photography, or simply discovering places that feel completely different from everyday life, Electric Forest offers something that is difficult to describe until you experience it yourself.
We arrived expecting a music festival.
We left feeling like we had spent four days inside another world.
And that’s exactly why we’ll be back.
Photos by We Like Indy Team.
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