OVERVIEW
Welcome to the realm of Nocturnal Wonderland, an extraordinary electronic dance music (EDM) festival that ignites the night with its electrifying beats and captivating atmosphere. Set in a magical world where music and fantasy converge, Nocturnal Wonderland takes you on a mesmerizing journey of sound and spectacle. With its enchanting stages, awe-inspiring visual displays, and a lineup of world-class DJs and artists, this festival is a celebration of music, art, and unity. Join the nocturnal tribe as we dance beneath the stars, embrace the rhythm of the night, and create unforgettable memories in this surreal and immersive wonderland of sound and enchantment.
In 2023, Nocturnal Wonderland will take on September 16 to September 17 at Glen Helen Regional Park (2555 Glen Helen Pkwy, San Bernardino, CA). This blog aims to enhance your ideal Nocturnal Wonderland experience with valuable insights.
ABOUT NOCTURNAL WONDERLAND
Oldest & Classic
Nocturnal Wonderland holds the distinction of being the oldest Insomniac Festival and the longest-running electronic music festival in North America. Originating in 1995 in Los Angeles, it has evolved into a colossal event that draws thousands of fans annually.
Various EDM genres
Nocturnal Wonderland is a festival that celebrates the vibrant world of electronic dance music (EDM). With a primary focus on EDM genres such as house, techno, trance, dubstep, drum and bass, and more, the festival brings together a diverse lineup of renowned artists and rising stars. Whether you're a seasoned EDM enthusiast or new to the scene, Nocturnal Wonderland promises to immerse you in a world of pulsating beats and soul-stirring melodies, making it a haven for music lovers seeking an extraordinary and euphoric journey through the realms of electronic music.
Art installations
Nocturnal Wonderland is not just about the music; it also boasts a mesmerizing array of captivating art installations that add a touch of magic to the festival grounds. As you wander through the enchanting world of Nocturnal Wonderland, you'll encounter a breathtaking display of immersive art pieces, vibrant light installations, and interactive sculptures that transport you to a realm of creativity and imagination. From larger-than-life structures that tower over the dance floors to intricately designed installations that come alive with dazzling lights, the art at Nocturnal Wonderland is a feast for the eyes and a source of inspiration for the soul.
TAKEAWAYS
Festival hours
3 pm – Midnight on September 16 and September 17.
Lockers with USB ports available for reservation
- Each locker is equipped with a universal phone charger.
- Measures approximately 8 inches high, 12 inches wide, and 18 inches deep — plenty of space for backpacks or purses.
Be prepared for fierce dust conditions
- The ground can be very dusty as soon as you drive into the parking lot.
- Bring a mask or gaiter to protect yourself from inhaling the dust and avoid getting it in your eyes.
- You should also have a safe method to clean your car windshields without scratching them, as impaired vision can be dangerous while driving.
Bring Warmth for Cool Nights
- As the festival takes place in September, the nights can get chilly.
- Remember to pack a jacket, pashmina, and a cozy warm blanket if you're camping to stay comfortable throughout the night.
Guard Against Mosquitoes
- Due to the proximity to a natural lake and waterpark, mosquitoes can be quite active during the event.
- To protect yourself from pesky bites, make sure to pack bug spray and keep those bothersome bugs at bay.
Be safe at night in the hilly terrain
- As the festival grounds might have dark and uneven terrain, it's crucial to bring a reliable flashlight to ensure safe movement during nighttime activities. Also, wear sturdy, comfortable shoes to navigate the hills and natural obstacles with ease.
- Be cautious of natural holes and uneven surfaces on the ground. Carefully watch your footing and avoid risky areas.
- It's essential to be prepared for any situation. Familiarize yourself with the location of the medical tent, so you can quickly access help if needed.
DURING FESTIVAL
- Stages & Lineup: Nocturnal Wonderland beckons you to explore its three captivating stages: WOLVES' DEN, LABYRINTH, and SUNKEN GARDEN, each a realm of sonic bliss and artistic wonder.
- The WOLVES' DEN stage roars with powerful beats and showcases the biggest names in the electronic music scene, drawing the crowd into a frenzy of euphoria.
- As you venture into the LABYRINTH stage, you'll find yourself immersed in a labyrinthine wonderland of cutting-edge sounds and mesmerizing visuals, where underground artists unleash their creativity and take you on a mind-bending journey.
- In contrast, the SUNKEN GARDEN stage offers an oasis of tranquility, where ambient beats and chill vibes reign supreme, creating a serene escape amidst the festival's electrifying energy.
CAMPING & ACTIVITIES
Nocturnal Wonderland provides multiple options for people to camp at the venue ground. The tickets can be bought online.
Campground hours:
- Friday, 9/15, 10 am – Monday, 9/18, 3 pm.
- All campers must be fully packed and vacate the campground by 3 pm on Monday, 9/18.
- Campers will not be allowed to exit the campgrounds or tent camping parking areas on Sunday night/Monday morning between the hours of 11 pm and 2 am to allow for a safe exit of all non-campers.
Campground Check-in:
- Friday, 9/15: 10 am – 11:59 pm
- Saturday, 9/16: 9 am – 12 pm
In & Out:
- All campers (with valid camping wristbands) have in/out privileges during festival hours and a dedicated campers-only festival entrance. Campers can leave the campground on foot.
- Campers must scan in & out when going between the campground and festival for re-entry.
Entry: Upon arrival, kindly display your Vehicle Sticker on the upper driver-side corner of your windshield.
- Tent Camping and Waterfront Camping vehicle stickers can access their parking lot via Gate 3, located directly off Glen Helen Parkway.
- Car Camping, RV’s, and Lakeside Camping vehicle stickers must go through the Tollbooth & Security search, located off of Glen Helen Road.
Activities: The campground at Nocturnal Wonderland offers a fun and welcoming vibe for all the campers during the weekend by holding multiple activities at the campground.
- Camping Pre-party: Camping Pre-Party will be kicked-off at 6 pm on Friday before the festival. The line-up is coming soon.
- Silent Disco: Two Silent Discos are offered at this year's Nocturnal Wonderland, providing two distinct vibes and music styles. Dance freely as the music flows through wireless headphones, keeping the surrounding area enchanted by the captivating sight of your dancing feet while all they hear is the pulsating energy of your moves.
- Water Park: The hours of the water park inside the camping ground are Friday 9/16, 1-5 PM, Saturday, 9/17 & Sunday, 9/18, 10 AM-5 PM. Remember to bring your swimsuit, stay cool in the pool, or slip down the water slide!
Other activities:
- Yoga: Revitalize your being after a night of dancing. Pack your yoga mat, water bottle, and positive energy to nourish your mind, body, and soul.
- Arts & Crafts: Unleash your creativity and craft something extraordinary! The festival provides materials and assistance from its staff to bring your artistic vision to life.
TRAVEL & PARKING GUIDE
Nocturnal Wonderland festival grounds are situated at Glen Helen Regional Park in San Bernardino, CA, approximately an hour's drive from downtown Los Angeles.
Parking & Drop-offs:
Nocturnal Wonderland is held at Glen Helen Amphitheater in San Bernardino, CA, and can be accessed via the I-15 or I-215. Please follow event traffic and parking staff directions upon arrival to ensure smooth traffic flow and faster parking. Keep in mind that there may be delays during peak hours in the San Bernardino area, so plan accordingly with early arrivals and extra travel time.
General Parking
- General Parking on festival days (Saturday 9/17 and Sunday 9/18) is free, opening at 12 pm each day. Carpooling is HIGHLY encouraged.
- Multiple parking lots at the venue are designated by color. Look for color signs as you exit your lot. Drop a GPS pin or take a screenshot of your location when parked for easy recall.
- Some traffic of the lots will be directed north on Glen Helen Pkwy to I-215 for a quicker exit. If heading back to Los Angeles, take the on-ramp to I-215 North and immediately exit to I-15 South.
- Vehicles must leave the parking lot at the end of each festival day. Any vehicles remaining after the festival will be towed at the owner's expense.
Rideshare & Drop-offs
- All guest pick-ups or drop-offs (rideshares, taxis, friends) must use the designated Rideshare area in the Purple Lot, located at Glen Helen Road & Glen Helen Parkway, outside of Gate 2.
- The rideshare area is open during all event hours and up to an hour after the show ends.
- Avoid pick-ups or drop-offs in surrounding streets and neighborhoods outside the provided Rideshare area.
- For safety, do not attempt to walk along Glen Helen Parkway outside the Purple Lot.
- During peak hours, longer waits and higher prices may occur, so plan accordingly.
City & Hotel Shuttles:
- City Shuttles provide round-trip transport from various SoCal locations.
- Enjoy comfortable and spacious coach buses at a budget-friendly price.
- Shuttles arrive at the festival's start and depart 30 minutes after the music ends.
