Written by: Kylie Floyd

Having raved for nearly four years, I’ve immersed myself in the atmosphere of various festivals and shows, gaining insights and connections with each community I encounter. 

For both newbies and seasoned members of the electronic dance music (EDM) community, the arrival of festival season is an exciting moment.  With so much to explore, it’s entirely normal to feel a little overwhelmed!

From the many styles of house music to the extreme bass drops of dubstep, and don’t forget about hardstyle and techno–each subgenre offers its unique flavor and energy, creating an energetic experience for fans to discover and enjoy!

What’s even more exciting is that each subgenre nurtures its eccentric community. Each group brings something different to the rave, no matter what subgenera you resonate with!

Now, let’s take the time to educate ourselves about these subgenres and the communities within EDM. By doing so, you’ll feel more prepared and gain a refreshing perspective when attending a festival. Who knows? You may discover new experiences and diversity and communities. 

Various dance music styles foster their distinct communities, including house, dubstep, techno, trance, and beyond. House music, for example, draws a crowd that thrives on groovy uplifting rhythms, fostering a connection with new acquaintances alike through happy, energetic songs.

The deep bass of dubstep fuels a more explosive, high-energy experience, creating a powerful atmosphere within the crowd.

Trance transports listeners into a euphoric, melodic escape, taking each individual on a journey of their own, while techno’s hypnotic beats craft an underground, immersive vibe.

The beauty of each subgenre lies not only in the music but in the people it brings together. Each genre forms its own subculture, yet they all unite under a shared love for sound, movement, and expression.

At festivals, the flow community brings people together, blending movement and music into something truly mesmerizing. In the crowd, you’ll see ravers spinning LED poi balls, twirling staffs, and fanning out glowing designs, seeing art you wouldn’t even imagine. It’s more than just a performance, it’s a shared experience. It’s a way where people come together to find their place in solace. Flow artists in the flow state do more than simply move to the music; they immerse themselves in it, bringing the audience into sync with the unspoken energy of the performance. It’s about losing yourself in the rhythm and exchanging energy with those around you; turning the dance floor into a living, taking the energy drawn in the crowd. 

Alongside the flow community, The Festival Babes and rave fashion scene add another layer of creativity and self-expression to festivals. Rave fashion is more than just bold outfits; it’s a statement of individuality, confidence, and connection to the music. From vibrant outfits to handmade accessories stacked with Kandi bracelets, each outfit tells a story. Kandi culture, with its roots in PLUR (Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect), creates a sense of community through the exchange of beaded bracelets carrying a personal memory. When fashion, flow, and music come together, they create an immersive world where people can fully express themselves without judgment. The Festival Babes, for instance, have created a global community where women can showcase their fashion, express their passions, and embrace confidence within the EDM scene.

EDM festivals are more than just about the music; it’s about the experience and the journey that guides you to a celebration of creativity, belonging and connection. The diversity of EDM genres brings together unique subcultures, each contributing to the festival experience in their way. Together, these elements form a beautiful space where individuals can celebrate their passions without judgment. Whether through dance, flow, fashion, or simply embracing the music, everyone becomes part of something larger than themselves—a shared experience that radiates pure joy, connection, and creativity.

So as festival season approaches, embrace the music, the people, and the culture because, in the end, it’s these connections that make the EDM world so electrifying.