Symbiosis Gathering

From the intention of the event, to the unique factors which cultivate community throughout the weekend, Symbiosis Gathering is not your average festival. Billing it as a “gathering” as opposed to a festival sets the tone that this event is as much about what you bring to the table as the big names who will grace the 4 stages. According to its mission, Symbiosis is intended as “a space for the fusion of aesthetics, sound and natural living, in an atmosphere of interactive co-creation so we may share in moments that are transformative and inspiring, based in a deep respect for our community and environment”.

Specifically timed to fall on the autumnal equinox, Symbiosis is in tune with the natural world and encourages participants to reflect on their surroundings and revel in nature’s gifts. This year the venue includes a beautiful lake open for swimming…perfect for rejoicing in this, the Year of the Water Snake. You can take a colorful virtual tour of the venue online as well. Micah and Leighton, hosts of Pyschedelic Friendship Bingo (you read right), list all the exciting features of the new venue, including lakeside camping, on-site bathrooms and “100% less scorpions than last symbiosis”.

Each night, 4 stages will feature a diverse Line-Up that ranges from powerful prayers to dance floor bangers to funky collaborations. Many flavors are represented, and we look forward both to seeing some our festival favorites, such as Emancipator, JPOD and Desert Dwellers, and discovering new acts as we traverse the grounds. Some highlights we look forward to checking out for the first time? Nahko & Medicine for the People offering potent songs of prayer, Star Slinger slinging sexy beats, and Saul Williams’ intelligent brand of hip-hop. There are three full albums of music from Symbiosis artists available for Free Download on BandCamp, so be sure to take a listen and figure out which sets are on your “Must” list.

Growing, individually and as a community, is a core mission of the Symbiosis experience. Art, ceremony, and healing are all key components of creating a container for such growth. There will be spaces to cultivate divine movement and ancestral arts including yoga, meditation, fire keeping, and cultural teachings. Not too mention workshops on aquaponics, vocal alchemy, star-gazing, and so much more! A pack in, pack out event, Symbiosis also features a variety of long-standing and newly developed greening initiatives designed to limit the footprint of the event.

Check out Symbiosis’ Website for more tastes of what is to come, information on how to get there, and to buy tickets! Be sure to check back with Grimey Gatsby for our coverage after the weekend, and follow KT Biaz on Instagram for photos live from the event.