In a world where music festivals often blend into one another, Rising Sun stands out as a vibrant celebration of connection, creativity, and community. Founded by passionate individuals Elise and Sam, this independent festival promises a unique experience that goes beyond just enjoying music and art. In this blog post, we delve into the inspiration behind Rising Sun, its evolution, and what attendees can look forward to in its upcoming January 2026 edition.
The magic of festivals
Both Elise and Sam have extensive festival experience, having attended around 35 to 40 events (possibly more) between them. Their love for festivals is deeply rooted in the memories they cherish. For instance, Elise recalls the transformative experience of attending Strawberry Fields, where the atmosphere felt like a wonderland filled with colors and joy. Sam shared a hilarious yet memorable moment of a hacky sack mishap that perfectly captures the spirit of fun and spontaneity at festivals. This shared passion for creating unforgettable memories is what led them to establish Rising Sun.
Creating a unique experience
As they discussed what makes a festival exceptional, both founders emphasised that it goes beyond just great music. A truly life-changing festival must create a cohesive experience where every aspect, from the music and art to the way attendees interact, is thoughtfully designed. For Rising Sun, the goal is to transport attendees into a space specifically crafted for connection and enjoyment. Elise and Sam believe that the creative effort put into the festival’s atmosphere is what sets it apart from others.
The birth of Rising Sun
The idea for Rising Sun was born during a reflective conversation between Elise and Sam while traveling in Europe. Inspired by their shared love for festivals, they decided to create one of their own. With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, they found themselves with ample time to refine their ideas, leading to their first small invitational event that was met with overwhelming joy from attendees seeking connection after lockdown.
Vision and future growth
Since its inception, Rising Sun has evolved significantly. Elise and Sam attribute their success to the dedicated volunteers who share their passion and vision. Operating as a not-for-profit organisation, their focus is not on profit but on creating an extraordinary experience for attendees. Elise mentioned that while their original vision remains intact, they have plans to expand and introduce new elements that will continue to enhance the festival in the coming years.
Challenges in the festival landscape
The festival industry is facing numerous challenges, particularly for smaller events like Rising Sun. Elise highlighted the increasing red tape surrounding permits and the changing buyer behavior post-COVID, where attendees tend to wait longer to purchase tickets. This uncertainty means that organisers must take significant risks without upfront financial security. Despite these challenges, the team remains committed to creating a unique and memorable festival experience.
Key takeaways
Rising Sun is more than just a festival; it is a community-driven celebration of creativity and connection. The founders’ journey from festival-goers to creators exemplifies their dedication to enhancing the festival experience. As Rising Sun continues to grow, it aims to maintain its core values while introducing exciting new elements. Festival enthusiasts can look forward to experiencing the magic of Rising Sun from 9 - 12 January 2026, promising an event that prioritises community, creativity, and unforgettable memories.
Learn more about Rising Sun here: Rising Sun Festival
