Photos by Dylan Simmons
SATURDAY 9/27
Nestled on the shore of Doheny State Beach in Orange County, California lies the annual Ohana Festival. Recently named Pollstar’s 2025 Music Festival of the Year, Ohana Festival — founded by Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder in 2016 — provides more than just memorable musical performances. Featuring indigenous and environmental speakers, activist nonprofits, art galleries, local food vendors, and some of music’s most iconic acts, Ohana Festival is dedicated to merging the impact of music and activism in the local community and beyond.
As Orange County natives and childhood attendees of the festival, my photographer Dylan and I were eager to experience Ohana Fest from a young adult perspective. Attracting an unsurprising crowd from indie surfer girls to middle-aged rock enthusiasts, the beach was brimming with summery energy all weekend long.
Royel Otis:
The Tiki Stage — the smaller of Ohana’s two stages — began to flood with fans spanning an eclectic mix of ages, despite the typically young fanbase of the act: Royel Otis. The Australian indie pop duo is a personal favorite for their airy sound and charming lyrics. The screen backdrop illuminated the stage in bright pink with the words “(this is royel otis live at ohana),” a bit that would continue throughout the set and made for an interactive visual experience. Drums crashed to “i hate this tune,” and I felt the bass rumble throughout my entire body. Just as the bridge kicked in, a beachy breeze took over the crowd, perfectly matching lead vocalist Otis Pavlovic’s airy verses and bright chorus. During “moody,” arms raised and dancing ensued as Royel Maddell, the guitarist, worked down the neck of his electric guitar in a series of tightly-packed riffs.
During “car,” two massive inflatable pink balloons were released into the crowd with the words “toss me in the air.” The afternoon’s energy was at an all time high… or so I thought. The screen flashed “dance with the person next to you,” inciting a lively groove, satisfying all expectations for a beachside music festival. Following a surprise cover of “Murder on the Dance Floor” by Sophie Ellis-Bextor, a stool was brought center stage as Royel and Otis began their popular stripped-down rendition of “Linger” by The Cranberries. All ages accompanied this singalong moment, which served as a nice change of pace before jumping back into their upbeat rhythm. “Oysters In My Pocket” concluded the set with lightning fast guitar shreds, raspy vocals, and a roaring crowd.
Rainbow Kitten Surprise:
A surprise standout of the day was alternative rock band Rainbow Kitten Surprise. With heavy bass, vibrant dancing, and a raspy twang, this act truly defied genres. In one song, lead vocalist Ela Melo would perform country rock, and be crawling across the stage in the next. Patter verses, searing yet bright guitar riffs, and a sea of waving pride flags left an endearing impression as I made my way to the Ohana stage for the night’s first headliner.
Leon Bridges:
Leon Bridges is known for his effortless retro-soul sound, romantic lyricism, and overall charm, but what I most know him for is defining my senior year of high school. “Smooth Sailin’” from the album Coming Home became my personal anthem – so much so that I made sure to catch Bridges at the Hollywood Bowl earlier this year, leaving with a greater appreciation for his entire discography. Thus, I greatly anticipated his set at Ohana Fest not only for his promising performance, but for the setting. Music as breezy and suave as his was sure to be unforgettable when paired with the picturesque Orange County coast.
Beginning with a groovy tune underscored by bright keys and staggered drums, Bridges emerged from golden streams of light in a head-to-toe denim suit and dark sunglasses whilst singing “Better Man.” The field was full of energy, from the backup singers serenading “doo bops,” to the immovably-packed crowd, to Bridges’s expressive dancing across the stage. The rich and soulful “Coming Home” resonated with the audience, as proven by the hush and stillness that overtook the crowd. “Never Satisfied” and the popular “Texas Sun” demonstrated Bridges’s vocal range and agility, keeping all notes in a comfortable register while presenting a sense of visual ease. I contained my excitement as the opening horns to “Smooth Sailin’” picked up in quick succession, drawing in red lights and fitting smooth movements to the beachy sound. As the closing romantic ballad, “Beyond” was performed under moonlight, I glanced throughout the swaying floor to loving embraces and obvious appeal beyond expectations.
Hozier:
Excitement stirred for Saturday’s headliner, Irish singer-songwriter Hozier, who made musical waves in the 2010s and again in 2023 with the album Unreal Unearth. Under flashing red and blue lights, an ASL interpreter signed every lyric Hozier sang with just as much physical energy as the artist himself. Beginning with “Nobody’s Soldier,” we were entranced by powerful vocals, a Greek chorus, and a tambourine to the chest. In between songs, he was both gracious and conversational. As someone only familiar with his hits, I was pleasantly surprised by the elements of rock present throughout his set. His fingers stretched wide across the neck of his guitar as he performed crunchy chords or intricate and melodic riffs.
What was most impressive was the fullness of his voice. Whether accompanied by the entire band or solo in acoustic songs such as “Cherry Wine,” the richness of his words and vibrant quality were felt deeply by anyone on the lot. Hozier walked through the crowd to a platform center-field, giving the bleachers full of fans equal opportunity to see his talent up close. This was a sweet, romantic moment to “Would That I,” and the communal singalong united the audience. Performing hits such as “Too Sweet” and “Take Me to Church,” Hozier demonstrated his musical and storytelling range through a blend of folk, soul, pop, and rock sounds underscoring vulnerable messages. No matter the genre of song, the audience was spellbound the entire time — truly a perfect end to the day!
SUNDAY, 9/28
The final day of the festival was packed with Green Day tee-shirts in every direction I looked. As I made my way to the Tiki stage, I watched English rock band James from the screen. In addition to crashing cymbals, an epic trumpet solo, and celebration of his drummer’s pregnancy, lead vocalist Tim Booth had an electrifying spirit. He danced freely, bantered with the crowd, and engaged audiences through their hit “Laid.” While previously unfamiliar with their music, I have officially added another act to my playlist.
Wet Leg:
A red telephone sat center stage atop a wooden stool. Smoke streamed out from the wings as Wet Leg’s frontwoman Rhian Teasdale ran out with a contagious smile. Their recent single, “catch these fists” was fast, yet strong. Through a riled-up opening, bridge’s patter, and distorted guitar riffs from Hester Chambers, Wet Leg made exactly the first impression that I anticipated. Beach balls were volleyed through the air during the theatrical and funky “Wet Dream.” Teasdale’s performance was addictive – between her dramatic movements, perfect diction, and engagement of the audience, she was clearly born to be on stage.
The succinctly sung “pillow talk” was a powerhouse moment featuring heavy drums, warped electric guitar, and steady bass. After jumping and lunging through the conversational “Chaise Lounge” and “mangetout,” the set was nearing a premature end. During “CPR,” Teasdale stood before a floor fan and let the wind blow through her hair as she made intense eye contact with the crowd and dragged the mic stand with her. At last, the red telephone was used through a series of large poses and muted declarations of “I’m in love, and you’re to blame.” Without a doubt, this was a performance I’ll never forget!
Cage the Elephant:
As the opening to “Broken Boy” blasted through the festival speakers, fire shot up across the stage to announce Cage the Elephant as they made their entrance to the Ohana stage. Lead singer Matt Schultz had an animated performance as he lifted the mic stand over his head and screeched whilst illuminated by intense orange lights. I then leaned over to my friend to inquire how old Cage the Elephant is, as I remembered their popularity throughout middle and early high school. Upon learning that Schultz is in his early forties, I was further impressed by his performance and consistent ease.
With hits like “Ready to Let Go,” “Ain’t No Rest For the Wicked,” and “Cigarette Daydreams,” the band positively satisfied any alt-rock dreamers in the crowd. Guitarist Brad Schultz plucked through punchy riffs, with Daniel Tichenor providing a steady bass and Jared Champion rocking on the drums. Concluding with “Come a Little Closer,” the energy was at an all-time high as vibrations spread across the grass. As I started to gather my things, I saw an electric guitar catapulted into the air to a ringing power chord.
Green Day:
There wasn’t a patch of grass unoccupied the minutes leading up to Green Day’s headlining set. As the lights dimmed, Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” took over the speakers and was met with a loving singalong. Just then, I was snapped back to reality as a punk rock-esque bunny danced onto the stage. The bunny worked the crowd and a countdown began. “American Idiot” blasted and I felt the music all throughout my body. Billie Joe Armstrong appeared on stage, chanting “Ohana are you ready!?”and “Let’s go crazy!” During musical interludes, Armstrong declared, “We’re gonna say no way man! We’re to say no secret police in the streets! We’re gonna say no to ICE! We’re gonna say no to censorship!” to which there was a collective roar in support. A fan was brought onstage to sing the bridge of “Know Your Enemy,” one of many audience interactions proving just how tight Green Day’s community remains.
Bassist Mike Dirnt had facials built for the stage and drummer Tré Cool had a youthful energy throughout the set. Clearly I wasn’t the only one thinking this, as I overheard an older gentleman next to me proclaim, “I feel like I’m back in middle school!” During a slower moment, a sweep of phone lights illuminated the night. As I glanced around the festival grounds, I saw the thousands of music lovers differing in demographics but united through song. “Welcome to Paradise” led to leaps off of platforms, flying sparks, and thunderous applause. Notable tunes like “21 Guns,” “Basket Case,” and “Wake Me Up When September Ends” were played as the night flew by way too fast. When the music finally faded, the audience erupted — Green Day evidently found their target audience at Doheny Beach this Ohana Festival.
