This past weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Elements Music & Arts Festival in the heart of the Poconos.
Set against the backdrop of the Pocono Raceway in Long Pond, PA, this three-day event (August 9-11, 2024) promised a lineup featuring some of the hottest acts in the dance music space. Despite a rocky start due to Mother Nature’s whims, Elements proved why it’s quickly becoming a must-attend festival for electronic music lovers in the Northeast.
As attendees arrived at the festival grounds on Friday, excitement was in the air – but so was an incoming hurricane. In an unexpected turn of events, the first day was canceled, and we had to seek shelter. While disappointing, it set the stage for an even more anticipated kick-off on Saturday.
Saturday dawned with a palpable energy as festival-goers emerged ready to make up for lost time. The moment you stepped onto the grounds, you were enveloped by the lush Pocono forests, with art installations and stages seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape.
Courtesy of Elements Festival // Yvonne G (@yvonnegphotos)
My journey began at the Air stage, a pagoda-style structure nestled in the woods, surrounded by treehouses. Justin Martin set the tone for the evening, working his magic to create an ethereal atmosphere that perfectly matched the forest setting.
Next, I made my way to the Earth stage for The Floozies. Their live instrumental approach to funk and electro was a refreshing change of pace, bringing an organic feel to the electronic landscape.
As night fell, Matroda took over the Fire stage, aptly named for the bursts of flames that punctuated the air throughout performances. He played out hard-hitting tracks that electrified the crowd, setting the energy level to maximum.
Courtesy of Elements Festival // Maggie London (@maggielndnphoto)
Returning to the Air stage, I was treated to Slander’s “Before Dawn” techno project. It was fascinating to see this side of the duo, usually known for their bass music. Their foray into techno kept the forest enclave pulsating well into the night.
The night reached its peak with Fly With Us at the Fire stage and undoubtedly became one of my favorite sets of the weekend. AC Slater and Chris Lorenzo, pioneers of the bass house genre, delivered a high-octane set that had the entire crowd moving in unison.
I ended my night at the Water stage with Rome In Silver. His diverse sound was the perfect way to wind down while still keeping the energy high.
Courtesy of Elements Festival // Grace Prock (@graceprock)
Sunday arrived, and with it, a renewed sense of adventure. The day kicked off at the Fire stage with 9B49, whose energetic set was the perfect wake-up call. He started the day strong, delivering a high-energy set that set the tone for the rest of the evening.
As the sun began to set, Golden Pony took over the Air stage. Their set created a groovy atmosphere as we danced atop tree houses in the forest setting. Azzecca followed, keeping the energy high. As a rising star in the scene, her set was a testament to the festival’s commitment to showcasing emerging talent alongside established acts.
Back at the fire stage, VNSSA and Nala’s ‘Girl Math’ proved that girl power is alive and well in the electronic music scene. Their back-to-back set was a masterclass in house and tech house, keeping the crowd moving with infectious beats.
Courtesy of Elements Festival // Yvonne G (@yvonnegphotos)
It’s Murph took over the Air stage next, delivering an energetic set that perfectly complemented the festival’s eclectic vibe. As night fell, Casablanca brought their melodic sound to the Air stage. Their set was a journey through atmospheric soundscapes and driving beats, a perfect lead-up to the night’s finale.
The crown jewel of Sunday night – and perhaps the entire festival – was Chris Lake and Cloonee’s set at the Fire stage. For two hours, these tech house heavyweights had the crowd in the palm of their hands, dropping beat after beat that made it impossible to stand still.
As the festival wound down, I managed to catch Bob Moses who delivered a club set at the Air stage that felt like the perfect send-off. Their performance was introspective yet energetic, mirroring the festival’s blend of natural serenity and electric excitement.
What sets Elements apart isn’t just the music – it’s the immersive experience. Between sets, I explored art installations and activations that seemed to grow out of the forest itself. The festival offers a range of activities promoting wellness and sustainability, from jewelry-making to sound healing sessions.
Courtesy of Elements Festival // Andrew Rauner (@ajrphotos)
Food options were pleasantly surprising and diverse. Whether you were craving empanadas, BBQ, tacos, or even lobster rolls, the festival had you covered. Vegetarians and meat-eaters alike found plenty to satisfy their festival appetites.
Despite the initial setback, Elements Music Festival 2024 delivered an unforgettable experience. It’s a testament to the festival organizers that they could turn a potential washout into a two-day celebration that left attendees wanting more.
For music lovers in the Northeast, Elements offers something truly special. It’s not just about the lineup – although that’s impressive enough – it’s about the way the festival integrates with its surroundings, creating a unique harmony between nature and electronic music.
As I left the Pocono Raceway, ears still ringing and feet still moving to phantom beats, I couldn’t help but feel I’d been part of something special. Elements Music Festival isn’t just an event; it’s a journey through sound, nature, and community. And for this festival-goer, it’s now a must-attend on my yearly calendar.