Summer is quickly approaching, and that means one thing: Festival season is upon us.
One of our favorite beach festivals is back again this year — Hangout Fest in Gulf Shores, Alabama. For 2024, the headliners include Lana Del Rey, The Chainsmokers, and Zach Bryan.
Here are our five must-see artists for Hangout Fest 2024.
1. Dominic Fike
Friday, 7:15pm-8:15pm, Hangout Stage
The Florida native, known for his hit songs “3 Nights” and “Mona Lisa,” has been touring for the past year, coming off of the release of his latest album, “Sunburn.” Dominic is an incredibly multi-faceted artist who mixes all genres from pop to hip-hop to alternative. After his live Coachella performance last year, he quickly gained more praise and attention for his incredible live shows.
The buzz surrounding him is well-deserved, and you will want to stay for his entire set, as he has created a well-thought-out setlist and put a lot of attention and detail into creating an authentic live show for the audience. Combined with his musical talent, passion, and high energy, it is no wonder he has so many die-hard fans.
2. The Beaches
Friday, 4:15pm-5:00pm, Shoreline Stage
The Beaches, a Canadian indie-rock band, will take the Shoreline stage Friday afternoon. The all-female band is a force to be reckoned with while performing on stage. Not only do they have great chemistry together as a band, they are immensely talented, and that shines through when they perform.
3. Del Water Gap
Friday, 6:15pm-7:15pm, Shoreline Stage
Del Water Gap, also known as Samuel Holden Jaffe, will be opening on tour this summer with Niall Horan. Jaffe writes music that is vulnerable and raw — songs like “Alone Together” and “Hurting Kind.” You feel connected to his music because of how real and honest he is. Del Water Gap is also incredible live. He gives his all while out on stage and is not afraid to jump around.
4. Matt Maeson
Friday, 8pm-9pm, Mermaid Stage
Another Hangout Fest artist you must see is Matt Maeson. The singer-songwriter is not afraid to talk about his struggle with religion, shame, and guilt as well as other heavy topics such as death. His music has a heavy feel to it at first listen, but the more you dive in, the most you understand the sense of freedom in his lyrics as Matt learns to let go of all the weight that surrounds past mistakes and regrets. His music is heartfelt, and you can tell that he puts his entire soul into writing and performing.
5. Cage The Elephant
Saturday, 7:15pm-8:15pm, Hangout Stage
This band needs no introduction, but they are best known for their hit song “Cigarette Daydreams.” The American rock band will be releasing their new album titled “Neon Pill” on May 17 — making Hangout Fest their first live show since the album drop.
If you don’t have tickets for Hangout Fest in May yet, consider this your sign to go get them now!
