Looners Camp took their hot air balloon from Burning Man to the South of France to celebrate the joy of being alive during a 4-day micro festival
Photo credit: OffBrandProject
In a whirlwind of creativity and passion, Burning Man camp Looners organized an unforgettable camp fundraiser event in southern France from June 29th to July 3rd, 2024. Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Carcassone, they took over the breathtaking 17th-century castle, Chateau de Pennautier, for a 4-day micro festival aptly named ‘Joie de Vivre’ (the joy of being alive).
The event was put together in a short period, leaving it under the radar for many. Nevertheless, it attracted 150 souls from all over the world. These fortunate attendees were treated to an extraordinary musical lineup featuring artists like Acid Pauli, Catz ‘n Dogz, Unders, Parallelle, Deer Jade, Allen Hulsey, Bloem, Itai, Tommy Raffa, Brett Love, Mashrik, Ares, Henry Pope, Le President, Artkaana, Matorin, Ali Mae, and Rella.
The magical celebration of life included unique experiences such as ballroom dinners, a 70’s pool party, a one-of-a-kind sound journey in a cave, vintage car rides, and of course; Looner Camp’s signature hot air balloon rides with DJ sets. What unfolded was nothing short of a dream and a true embodiment of the French joie de vivre!
Chateau de Pennautier, known as “Le Petit Versailles,” is simply stunning, with its grandeur reminiscent of the iconic palace. The festival’s activities took place in various beautiful castle rooms and outdoor areas, while other parts of the program unfolded in equally enchanting locations.
At Chateau Paraza, guests enjoyed a garden dinner followed by all-night parties in the main salon and wine cellar. Another highlight was the Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine, a 6-million-year-old cave so vast it can fit the entire Eiffel Tower. Inside, guests experienced “Underneath,” a musical journey blending electronic music with live instrumentation and spoken word, led by DJ Unders, Zohar, Santi Bartolomé, and Jac Hoja.
Some mornings began early with yoga sessions, while the days after all-night-benders started slowly with poolside sets and a relaxing wind-down day (or wine-down day for those who preferred) featuring massages and other wellness treats. The windy weather allowed the hot air balloon to soar only once, creating a spectacular moment in the night sky above the castle.
The week concluded with a groove-steady, dreamy set by the legendary Acid Pauli on the castle’s courtyard steps, neon lights beaming down the façade of the chateau. Keep an eye out for the 2025 edition of Joie de Vivre, or dust your Burner boots off to meet Looners Camp on the playa this year at 4:30 and Esplanade!
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