Let’s be real—if you weren’t at Neon Carnival this year, you missed the party of the festival season. Period. Held on April 12 at the Desert International Horse Park in Thermal, California, this invite-only after-hours oasis once again delivered an unforgettable, star-studded night of music, magic, and mayhem. Powered by PATRÓN EL ALTO Tequila, the fourteenth edition of this iconic bash wasn’t just a party—it was an experience.
From the moment one stepped onto the adult carnival, it was clear: Neon Carnival knows how to throw down.
Opening the night, social media It-Girl DJ and PATRÓN partner Charly Jordan lit up the decks and the dance floor, setting the perfect tone with her signature high-energy vibe. Following her set Anderson .Paak hit the stage as his alter ego DJ Pee .Wee, spinning an all-vinyl set. Finally, Chase B & Friends came through with a fire set that kept the party going into the AM’s. Then, Pharcyde and Too Short pulled up casually dropping iconic bangers like “Pass Me By” and “Blow the Whistle.” Yeah, it was that kind of night.
Next, it’s wouldn’t be neon without the celeb sightings. Paris Hilton made her entrance in a crochet bodysuit, while Rachel Zoe shimmered through the crowd giving main character energy in her sequin flares. Karrueche Tran and Teyana Taylor were the duo of the night, with Lori Harvey jumping in for a quick silk scarf fix that somehow turned into a whole viral moment.
Now the cherry on top? PATRÓN EL ALTO didn’t just show up—they showed out. Their new Headliner Margarita was the drink of the night, and the exclusive mini bottles for VIP tables were the ultimate flex. Up for grabs was the Neon Carnival x PATRÓN Festival Gift Set—complete with collector cups and a full-size bottle.
THERMAL, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 12: General atmosphere at PATRÓN EL ALTO Tequila Presents Neon Carnival on April 12, 2025 in Thermal, California. (Photo by Cassidy Sparrow/Getty Images for Neon Carnival)
Neon rides, carnival games, light installations, and next-level sponsor activations from Ghost Energy filled out the space. Other sponsors present included Nütrl, LaCroix, and PathWater making every corner of the event Instagram gold.
Bottom line? Neon Carnival 2025 didn’t just live up to the hype—it redefined it. If this is what the desert looks like after dark, then count me in every year.
THERMAL, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 12: DJ Charly Jordan attends PATRÓN EL ALTO Tequila Presents Neon Carnival on April 12, 2025 in Thermal, California. (Photo by Cassidy Sparrow/Getty Images for Neon Carnival)
