Lovebox Weekender Bender
Saturday, July 21 & Sunday, July 22
Victoria Park, London
Words by Marisa Brickman
Photos by Timothee Chambovet & Tara

Festivals in the UK tend to go all out, and at Lovebox, there were 11 different areas with live music playing and the site was open from 10:30am to 10:30pm - not to mention the carnival rides and fancy dress mayhem going on.

It took place in the East End's Victoria Park - just a few steps away from home, so when it was time to crash, there was no business about tents or hard ground, our soft cozy beds were just steps away.

SATURDAY

The Girlcore posse gathered for a little pre-party at my house and then headed over to the park for some action starting around 3pm. We were armed with lipstick and ready to prance on anyone that crossed our path, leaving random girls with red lips in our wake.

We arrived just in time to catch the Presets on the mainstage and everyone was dancing and freaking out. Having seen the loads of times before in smaller venues, It was great to see the Australian dance-electro duo rock such a large stage.

After that, it was time for a wander around the site. We wanted to go to the Rizla tent to catch a glimpse of Rub 'n' Tug, but it was way too crowded, so instead, we decided to enjoy the odd bit of sunshine that somehow managed to make us forget for a split second that it was probably the only 5th time the sun had shined all summer long. So, we decided to stop for a pose. Picture time!

BLONDIE

You know a gang of girls would take the time to stop and catch the Blondie set. Sure, Debbie Harry's a bit old, sure she's a bit wrinkly and sure she might not have the same sex appeal, but GODDAMN, how amazing is it to hear those songs live! Standing in a circle with all your friends jumping up and down and singing your heart out.

Luckily Tim & Tara both had photo passes, so they got to get right up front.

How crazy is this? Check out all the photogs lined up to snap photos of Ms Harry.

"Call On Me" went over especially well with our crew.

SLY & THE FAMILY STONE

(and the poncho people)

OMG! Everyone keeps asking if Sly looked old, and he looked pretty fine to me, but how could I concentrate on Sly when there were these amazing yellow poncho people standing around?

We could tell they wanted to dance, so, hell, why not? Let's dance.

CASUALTIES

It's not a festival without some party fouls and battle wounds. Luckily, none of ours were caught on camera.

We kept thinking that we didn't see any cops around, which provided for a nice vibe. No dudes with Bobby sticks, safety patrol vests and funny hats walking around checking to see if there was weed in your rolly.

But, whoa, lookee here. Undercover! We're not sure what this dude did, but these undercover coppers were quick to the straddle like Dog The Bounty Hunter.

And this poor guy just passed out in the grass right in front of everyone. His friend wasn't helping him out much either, just trying to get our money for taking his picture, like he's some Ramblas attraction or something. Poor dude.

SUNDAY

After Monday's extravaganza, we were back for more - this time gathering around Lolo's for a BBQ. We knew we had to make it in time for Bonde Do Role, so we had to bust out by about 3pm. Pedro's become one of Girlcore's biggest fans and we had to go support - plus, no matter where the go, its always fun. Those kids bring the PAR-TAY!

But wait - we got distracted by The Rapture on the main stage. So we stuck around for "People Don't Dance No More".

THE RAPTURE

BONDE DO ROLE

We made it in just in time to to the aptly named El Barrio tent for Bonde do Role. This was one of the most mental shows we saw at Lovebox. We instigated a massive stage invasion towards the end and it turned out to be one big party with our favorite Brazilians belting their hearts out. By the time we were all getting dragged off stage, Diplo had hit the decks to keep everyone dancing.

FELIX DA HOUSECAT

After only so much Brailiacrunk, we decided to head over to Strange Love to catch a glimpse of Felix da Housecat. He was super happy to see us! The tent was raging and it was hard to believe it wasn't even midnight yet.

After Lovebox ended, we decided to carry on the party. By this time, we'd gathered quite the rag-tag crew and after getting kicked out of Anika's house by the neighbors, we decided to ambush my house. And after the ASBO, we decided to call it quits.

CONCLUSION

There is truly nothing like having a two-day festival in a lovely park within walking distance from your house. Massive props to Lovebox for one of the best weekends of the summer!