Nestled between the undulating waves and the urban pulse of Wellington’s waterfront, the Jim Beam Homegrown festival unfurled like a technicolor dream, painting the city in hues of sonic bliss. This wasn’t just any Saturday; it was a day where the air pumped with the heartbeat of New Zealand’s music scene, pulling in a throng of over 20,000 souls from every corner of the country, including a lively contingent from Porirua, each one chasing the euphoria that only live music can deliver.
This year, Homegrown wasn’t just a festival; it was a rebellion against the mundane, a manifesto of musical diversity that echoed through the Wellington waterfront. The lineup was a heady mix of reggae, hip-hop, rock, and electronic vibes, showcasing local legends and fresh faces alike. From the sultry melodies of Bic Runga to the raw energy of Homebrew, from the soulful harmonies of Ladi6 to the charismatic presence of Stan Walker, the festival was a continuous stream of moments that felt like they were engineered in the stars.
The festival landscape was a marvel of logistical artistry, with five stages strategically peppered along the waterfront, creating a sprawling canvas for attendees to paint their day with the colours of their musical tastes. The layout facilitated a seamless flow of energy, ensuring that everyone could vibe with their preferred soundscapes. The crowd, a mosaic of festival fashion, radiated the kind of joy that’s contagious, with faces from Porirua beaming in the collective euphoria.
Behind the scenes, the unsung heroes of Homegrown worked magic to make the day unforgettable. The array of food and drink stalls catered to every taste, while the immaculately maintained facilities ensured that the focus remained on the music. The staff, from security to bartenders, were the embodiment of Kiwi hospitality, making everyone feel like part of the Homegrown whānau.
Homegrown 2024 was more than just a festival; it was a testament to the power of music to unite, to inspire, and to transform. For one glorious day, the Wellington waterfront became a utopia of sound, a place where the stresses of the world dissolved into the melodies of Aotearoa’s finest musicians. It was a reminder that in the heart of New Zealand’s cultural landscape, there’s a rhythm that resonates with us all, a beat that brings us together in celebration of the art that moves us. And for those who journeyed from Porirua and beyond, it was a vivid chapter in the ongoing story of our shared love affair with music.
