How to Throw a Food Festival for the Instagram Generation
Consider us still in recovery mode (in the best way possible, of course).
We attended The Infatuation's EEEEEATSCON food fest over the weekend at Barker Hangar Airport in Santa Monica, California, and we are what feels like eternally stuffed. Noshing on everything from Shake Shack burgers, to Dream Pops, to Italian delights from Jon & Vinny's and more, we most definitely gave our palettes the ultimate experience.
But shockingly enough, this 3000-person event—identified by cofounders Andrew Steinthal and Chris Stang as a "food festival for the Instagram generation"—is only one time in existence. So, just how did the two guys magically execute such a successful experience on their first try?
Quick #SWEEEEETS break between sets. @aftersicecream #EEEEEATSCON #EEEEEATS
Allow us to explain below just what's needed to properly throw a food festival in this day and age:
1. A Legitimate Number of Renown Food Vendors
It was pretty impressive how many big names in the restaurant biz came out for the occasion. Whether you were digging ramen noodles, pizza, burgers, gourmet hot dogs or dessert, there was seriously something for everyone. Reputable dining spots including Katsuya (Japanese), Nighthawk (breakfast food), Sweetfin Poké and so many more were all in tow for the occasion.
(Photo courtesy of The Infatuation)
2. Musical Performers
In-between a variety of guest speakers in the food industry, EEEEEATSCON not only had a pretty swell selection of music playing in the background, but they also featured two special guest performances at the end of the night. First up was empowering female hip-hop-R&B artist Lizzo. And closing out the incredible night was one of our fave acts, Brooklyn-based electronic duo The Knocks. The two acts had festival attendees on their feet and gave them a reason to stay until the end of the eve.
(Photo courtesy of The Infatuation)
3. Celebrity Guests
Nothing gets a word out quite like a universally familiar face. For its first time in existence, EC managed to get the likes of Tyra Banks, Minka Kelly, B.J Novak and Kate Bosworth to all make their way to the food-a-thon. If they're going, doesn't it make you want to go, too?
4. On-Trend Brands Not Related to Food
Obviously we come for the food, but sometimes we want to leave with something, too. EC did a great job of incorporating non-food vendors into the mix, with an excellent shoppable display from Paige denim, a colorful photo booth with complimentary swag galore from La Croix and a VIP lounge hosted by American Express.
(Photo courtesy of The Infatuation)
5. Photo-Opps Galore
Getting to swim in a sea of avocado toast or a swirl of colorful donuts? Can't say no, right? EC definitely had the photo booth game down pat. We have enough photo-centric mementos from the event to keep it in our memory forever.
Sure, we love food of all kinds, but if dessert is your consumption of preference, you'll want to click HERE to learn all about the festival devoted to just that: Dessert Goals.