The scorching Pampanga heat couldn’t deter Filipino music fans from converging at Clark Global City for the much-anticipated Aurora Music Festival 2024. Held on April 6 and 7, the festival, reminiscent of the US’ Coachella, transformed the venue into a giant party ground for OPM lovers of all ages.
The crowd, consisting of millennials, Gen Zs, and even some boomers, arrived in droves, with some traveling from as far as Baguio, Bataan, and Davao to witness a stellar lineup of Filipino music icons. The wait was definitely worth it.
A Massive Stage for Big Dreams
The festival boasted an impressive single stage bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. Two enormous LED walls flanked the stage, showcasing vibrant visuals that complemented each performance’s energy and emotions. Early birds were treated to DJ sets that set the mood for the evening’s OPM celebration.
This year’s Aurora boasted larger-than-life attractions and a wider array of amenities, making it feel grander than ever. Bigger and brighter hot air balloons dotted the sky, adding a whimsical touch to the festival atmosphere. The grounds, designed for comfort, offered free water stations and a wider variety of food vendors compared to previous years.
OPM for Every Generation
The two-day festival brought together music lovers across generations. Day 1 featured artists who rose to fame in the digital age, such as Cup of Joe, Adie, Juan Karlos, Moira dela Torre, December Avenue, and the highly anticipated SB19. The P-Pop Kings stole the show with chart-topping hits, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
Day 2 offered a nostalgic trip down memory lane with iconic acts from the 90s. Orange and Lemons, Parokya ni Edgar, Kamikazee, Itchyworms, and Andrew E. had the audience dancing and singing along to their timeless hits. Rico Blanco capped off the night with an electrifying performance, with dazzling guitar solos and a shower of fireworks.
The festival transcended age barriers. A young fan of Parokya ni Edgar, accompanied by his sister, had the opportunity to share the stage with Chito Miranda for an energetic performance of ‘Bagsakan.’ Concertgoers from all walks of life, young and old, swayed to soulful ballads and headbanged to rock anthems.
A Celebration of Love and Music
Love was the undeniable theme of Aurora 2024. From the banter between the hosts to the artists’ heartfelt messages, the festival pulsated with declarations of love and heartbreak. Whether it was the comedic antics of Chito Miranda or the raw intensity of Kamikazee’s performance, there was something for everyone.
Beyond the music, the music festival fostered a sense of unity among Filipinos. While the lack of a phone signal was inconvenient for some, it allowed festival-goers to fully immerse themselves in the experience, creating a powerful connection through the music.
For two days, Clark Global City became a haven for music lovers, where generations united under the banner of OPM. While two days felt short, the memories made will surely last until next year’s Aurora.
