The SweetWater 420 Festival returned to Atlanta’s Centennial Olympic Park on April 22 – 24 for the annual musical and beer festival for the ultimate SweetWater experience. From an all-star musical lineup of acts consisting of approximately 50 bands, ranging from The Roots, to The People’s Blue of Richmond to our very own Ludacris, the SweetWater 420 Festival was the place to be at with an amazing cross section of music from rock to R&B to hip-hop to bluegrass to electronica and indie all mixed together to give it the perfect vibe for a fantastic weekend. There was something for everyone to indulge in.
The music was hot and the beer was cold, especially in The SweetWater Experience Tent where you had the opportunity to taste test up to 40 distinct beers, sit down and listen to brew masters, then follow up with Q & A sessions afterwards. Plus there was always the chance of sitting down and having a beer or two with a band, like Leftover Salmon.
What makes the 420 Festival so special and such a huge part of Atlanta is it’s really more than just having a good time, yes, that is part of it, going out and having fun with friends, listening to some of your favorite artists perform live, but it’s also about being with people in a pretty cohesive environment and respecting the environment that we all share together. The saying at the festival is “we’re here for a good time, she’s here for a longtime” (referencing mother earth and to pay respect and homage to her).
Founder of The SweetWater Brewery said it best “When you love what you do, it’s not work.” And how could you not love the perfect weekend in spent in Atlanta being immersed in music, beer, amazing food and great works of art from local artists.
All photos by Danielle Boise for Target Audience Magazine.