Ria

Hi.

I love coffee, live music, and exploring neighborhoods on weekends in New York.

Take Me Back To Governors Ball

Take Me Back To Governors Ball

I've been to every Governors Ball since 2011, and I enjoyed every single one of them: 2011, when it started as a one-day music event at Governors Island;  2012, when it extended into 2 days and really felt like a big music, food, and arts festival; 2013, when a tropical storm transformed Randall's Island into a giant mud party; 2014, when The Strokes reunited on stage; and 2015, when Gov Ball threw its biggest festival yet.

Drake, Deadmau5, Florence + the Machine, Lana del Rey, and The Black Keys topped this year's lineup drawing the biggest crowd since Gov Ball started. Governors Ball has now become a massive three-day event boasting top artists, popular food truck vendors, impressive art installations, and a variety of activities in between sets. Despite this year's light rain and a few technical hiccups, Gov Ball remains successful as New York City's largest music festival.

Govball-ferry

2015's four stages have become bigger, attracting 45,000 people to the festival each day. Volume's louder, lights and screens are brighter. Did I also mention, women ruled Governors Ball this year?

GovBallstage
governors ball-the decemberists

No matter which performer, it was great to hear the sound of drum beats, the bass, guitar riffs, synth and hooks, and impressive vocals, all in sync. It was thrilling just to be there—sharing the moment with friends and other fans, celebrating the music together. 

It also helped that the food at the festival was as exciting. There were more food choices this year–from kimchi tacos to falafel sandwiches. New York's famous ramen burger was also there, drawing the longest line every single day of the festival. The Infatuation did an awesome job curating this year's food vendors and you can read all about the best Gov Ball Eats here.

The best refreshing drink from Gov Ball.

The best refreshing drink from Gov Ball.

Gov Ball's bigger sponsors also helped enhance the overall experience at the festival. I had access to a VIP lounge with free food and drinks, and a live DJ set by A-Trak—all because my boyfriend owned a Samsung device. I have to give it to these guys for giving me a chance to score the best view for The Black Keys' closing set.

View from Samsung's VIP Lounge.

View from Samsung's VIP Lounge.

Artists' Meet and Greet tent.

Artists' Meet and Greet tent.

Giant Jenga.

Giant Jenga.

Midnight Snack. When you're feeling low on energy off the island after each day, there are plenty of diners around Murray Hill offering great late-night, post-festival meal cravings.

Midnight Snack. When you're feeling low on energy off the island after each day, there are plenty of diners around Murray Hill offering great late-night, post-festival meal cravings.

Overall, Governors Ball did a great job again this year. I wish you guys the best.

Thank you for making this happen in New York, and I'll see you guys in 2016. <3

Summer's End

Summer's End

Trying Indian Food for the First Time

Trying Indian Food for the First Time