One year after the birth of brat summer, Charli XCX's festival in Victoria Park captivates 35,000 fans with an energetic lineup and unforgettable performances.
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One year after the explosive rise of the cultural sensation known as brat summer, Charli XCX and her fervent fanbase gathered at Victoria Park, clinging tightly to the electrifying moment she crafted. In the wake of a pandemic that left many restless, the summer of 2024 has become a vivid celebration of chaos, creativity, and community, a true testament to the impact Charli has made.
A cultural phenomenon
It was the summer of 2024 that the internet quickly dubbed ‘brat summer’ following the release of Charli XCX’s hit album. With its intoxicating mix of carefree vibes, drink-spilling antics, and a touch of introspection, the album struck a chord with audiences craving connection.
Fast forward to now, and the impact of this sonic wave remains palpable, evidenced by the enthusiastic crowd of 35,000 at Victoria Park for the special PARTYGIRL edition of the LIDO Festival. The lineup, featuring AG Cook, Magdalena Bay, The Dare, 070 Shake, and Bladee, embodied the spirit of brat summer.
A day of celebration
The festival day felt like a jubilant victory lap for Charli, a chance to showcase the diverse community of artists that have emerged alongside her. AG Cook kicked things off with an energetic main stage set that set the tone for the day. The Japanese House delivered a blissful performance, perfectly capturing the essence of a sunny festival evening. Meanwhile, Kelly Lee Owens ignited the second stage with an exhilarating set, showcasing tracks from her upcoming album, Dreamstate.
The thrill of live performance
LA’s The Dare drew one of the most enthusiastic crowds, his performance infused with hints of LCD Soundsystem’s influence. However, the event’s organizational challenges became apparent as the tent filled up quickly, leaving hundreds outside in line. As the day progressed, long queues for food, drinks, and restrooms tested the patience of festival-goers, emphasizing the need for improved logistics at such large gatherings.
Charli XCX takes the stage
When it was finally time for Charli XCX to headline, the anticipation was palpable. The crowd, undeterred by the wait, was ready to embrace the moment. She opened her set with a thrilling remix of Shygirl’s “365,” seamlessly flowing into the infectious “360.” Throughout her set, Charli engaged the audience with surprise appearances, including Amelia Dimoldenberg showcasing the viral “apple” dance, and Bladee joining her for “rewind.” As the sun set, the atmosphere turned electric with her performance of “everything is romantic.”
Moments that resonate
Yet, it was the tracks beyond the brat universe that showcased the true essence of Charli’s artistry. Her passion for classics like the SOPHIE-produced “Vroom Vroom” resonated deeply, reminding fans of the journey they shared over the past year. The crowd swayed to “party 4 u” and “Track 10,” illuminated by a captivating light show. The Barbie film soundtrack hit “Speed Drive” morphed into a vibrant remix, transforming Victoria Park into a colorful carnival ride.
Enduring memories
As the set drew to a close, Charli delivered a triumphant rendition of “I Love It,” complete with a dramatic waterfall display. Messages flashed across the big screen, proclaiming that brat summer “wasn’t just a summer thing. It’s a forever thing.” The sentiment resonated with fans, many of whom sang along with every lyric, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. While the hope remains that Charli will explore new creative directions, it’s clear that the legacy of brat summer will linger, held tightly by those who experienced it.
