Lightning in a Bottle to celebrate 21st iteration of live electronic music

Kern County is gearing up to celebrate the 21st annual Lightning in a Bottle music festival, a five-day preeminent guide to today’s best electronic artists.

In the past 20 iterations, the festival has achieved success and earned its reputation as a beloved California event.

Organizers expect more than 20,000 people of all shapes and persuasions — ravers, influencers, miscreant youth — to descend upon Kern’s Buena Vista Aquatic Recreational Area from May 22 to 27. Law enforcement with the Kern County Sheriff's Office will be on site, for security.

With Skrillex as a headlining dance act, fans can also enjoy performances from rave artist Fatboy Slim, Lane 8, James Blake and trip-hop composer Tipper, along with CloZee and ISOxo. Honey Dijon will bring an element of Chicago house style, while British DJ Floating Points promises to deliver a “multi-genre performance.”

But the event has memorialized itself for thinking outside the stage.

Attendees can expect an educational element in this year’s learning and culture lineup, from cooking classes to workshops and speakers on ethics, technology and the environment.

“It is a magical land of adventure,” its website reads. “Where every corner is primed for connection, for wonder, and for fun to happen. It’s a wild party with friends old and new, where the connections made last a lifetime.”

Created by L.A.-based Do LaB, LIB has been a Memorial Day staple in Kern since its local launch in 2019. Over that time it has grown to a large-scale affair, and despite its pandemic hiatus in 2020, it beckons a consistent crowd.

General admission starts at $359, plus fees. Additional passes for camping, parking and even car camping are also available. For more information, go to libfestival.org.