On the Scene: Day One of BottleRock Festival

The picturesque vineyards of Napa Valley set the stage for a music extravaganza like no other as the highly anticipated BottleRock Napa Valley kicked off its first day with a bang. As the sun cast its golden glow over the rolling hills, thousands of music enthusiasts flocked to the festival grounds, ready to immerse themselves in a sonic journey curated to perfection.

The day began with a flurry of excitement as the gates opened, unveiling a vibrant wonderland of music, art, and culinary delights. Everywhere you turned, there was an air of anticipation, with festival-goers donning their most fashionable attire, eager to experience the magic that awaited them.

As I made my way through the festival grounds, the contagious energy was palpable. The first stop on my musical adventure was the JaM Cellars Stage, where a rising star, Ayleen Valentine, mesmerized the crowd with her ethereal vocals and dynamic stage presence. Her infectious energy seemed to reverberate through the audience, setting the tone for an unforgettable day ahead.

Next on my list was the Culinary Stage, where renowned chefs from around the country showcased their culinary prowess. The tantalizing aroma of delectable dishes filled the air, making it impossible to resist the temptation to indulge. I was lucky enough to witness a captivating cooking demonstration by none other than Giada De Laurentiis, who effortlessly combined her culinary expertise with his signature charm, leaving the audience in awe.

I then headed over to Bottlerock’s  very own speakeasy, Monkey Shoulder’s Porta Party. There we got to sample and indulge their delicious craft cocktails like the CHI CHI, made with coconut cream and hibiscus falernum, ​and the PEACH PLEASE made with peach simple syrup and green tea. Both drinks featured Monkey Shoulder’s  iconic whisky with tasting notes of zesty orange combined with vanilla, honey and spiced oak. Monkey Shoulder is perfect neat, on the rocks, or in classic and contemporary cocktails.

Recharged and ready for more musical magic, I ventured toward the main stage, where a crowd had already gathered in eager anticipation. The moment arrived as the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the vast expanse of festival-goers. The legendary Bastille took the stage, and the crowd erupted in applause and cheers. Their timeless songs echoed through the valley, transporting us to back to 2014.

As the night unfolded, the energy reached its peak with electrifying performances by The Smashing Pumpkins and Post Malone. The stage came alive with pulsating lights, captivating visuals, and the sheer brilliance of his talent. The crowd danced and sang along, their voices blending with the music, creating an atmosphere of pure euphoria. The highlight of the performance was when Post Malone pulled an audience member onto the stage, handed him his guitar, and performed his hit “Stay” together.

But the BottleRock Festival experience isn’t limited to just music. The festival grounds were a tapestry of artistic expression, with captivating installations and interactive exhibits at every turn. From larger-than-life sculptures to vibrant street art, every corner seemed to hold a surprise waiting to be discovered.

The first day of BottleRock Festival was a testament to the power of music, bringing people from all walks of life together in celebration. It was a day filled with unforgettable performances, culinary delights, and a sense of camaraderie that transcended the barriers of age, gender, and background. As the night drew to a close, and the stars twinkled above, it was clear that the magic of BottleRock would continue to unfold over the next two days.

As I left the festival grounds, my heart brimming with joy and my ears still echoing with the melodies of the day, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experience. BottleRock Festival had successfully woven a tapestry of sights, sounds, and tastes, creating an unforgettable experience that would be etched in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to be a part of it. As the sun set on day one, I couldn’t help but eagerly anticipate what the next two days of BottleRock had in store.