REVIEW: Bottlerock Napa Valley 2024 Unites Fans of Music, Wine With Unforgettable Weekend

Over three exhilarating days during the Memorial Day holiday weekend, Bottlerock Napa Valley 2024 captivated audiences with an eclectic lineup of musical talent that spanned genres and generations. Headliners like Pearl Jam, Stevie Nicks and Ed Sheeran were solid and lived up to the high expectations from years of releasing music that’s ingrained into the memories for so many. 

Complementing the veteran acts was a very well balanced daytime lineup of artists spanning alternative rock and pop to hip-hop and R&B. Bands like The Offspring and Queens of the Stone Age were absolutely incredible, exhibiting their stage prowess and in the case of the former, recognizing that fans relish the familiar. The Offspring ranked amongst the best acts of Sunday because they played an entire set filled with hits starting the set with “Come Out and Play”, “All I Want” and right to the end with “Pretty Fly(for a White Guy)”, “The Kids Aren’t Alright” to “You’re Gonna Go Far Kid” and set closer, “Self Esteem”. The set had the dads in the audience reliving their youth along with their kids.  A major surprise and highlight was the appearance of Ed Sheeran, the night’s headliner, who joined the band on-stage to perform “Million Miles Away.”  It was the ultimate mashup of performers that wound up being an ultimate memorable moment for the ages.

The same could be said for Friday headliner Stevie Nicks, who was gorgeous in a black lacy dress and mixed up her set with familiar Fleetwood Mac songs like “Gypsy”, “Gold Dust Woman” and “Dreams”, along with her solo work in “Edge of Seventeen”, “Stand Back” and “Leather and Lace”. Young and old were in attendance and in awe of the seventy-six year-old who’s still got it.

Emerging artists inspired by the likes of the veteran headliners and others performing at the festival were equally exiting to see. Stephen Sanchez, was dressed more like the unassuming kid from Sacramento that he is, during his performance. It didn’t matter that he wasn’t dressed like his previous standard 50’s-inspired outfits that he wore during his previous tour, his voice and music was what mattered and Sanchez brought an entertaining set filled with pseudo-nostalgia.

Guitar-prodigy Grace Bowers and her band The Hodge Hodge performed two sets, one on the MainStage and another in the JaM Cellars Ballroom and was captivating. Their blues-inspired music was fun and the perfect backdrop to showcase Bowers’ precision on guitar. Equally entertaining were Australian act Royel Otis, who brought their brand of alternative indie rock to get fans dancing, while on the flipside, British singer/songwriter Holly Humberstone was solid and had fans in their feels as she sang songs of heartbreak and raw emotions.

Emerging artist Akira Galaxy brought an ethereal presence to her daytime set that had many buzzing afterwards and looking up her music on their phones. The band Momma was another rock band that impressed many as well during their performance. Many were seen head-bobbing to songs like the catchy “Bang Bang” and “Speeding 72”.  Recent breakouts The Beaches are getting the recognition they deserve after the overwhelming success of their viral song “Blame Brett”, as the Canadian band had a large crowd singing and clapping along throughout their set.  Cannons was thoroughly entertaining as their chill vibes had fans swaying along to songs like “Bad Dream”, Talk Talk” and of course their huge song “Fire for You”. 

The festival brought together an incredible mix of drinks, food, and music that catered to every taste. Imagine lounging in elegant booths hosted by winemakers from the Napa Valley, sipping on some of the region’s finest wines while soaking in chic festival booth lounges. Whether attendees savored the bold flavors of Don Julio Tequila, Hendricks Gin, or an Aperol Spritz, there was no shortage of delicious drinks to explore. For those who preferred non-alcoholic options, there were refreshing beverages, zero-proof cocktails and a coffee cart to keep you buzzing with energy.

But it wasn’t just about the drinks—the culinary offerings were just as impressive— lobster tots, dumplings, or slow cooked nachos! Festival goers enjoyed a mouthwatering selection of dishes from local Napa favorites and popular Bay Area vendors like Boon Fly Cafe, Osha Thai, and more. With the beautiful sunny Napa weather, festival-goers sported everything from cowboy boots and short shorts to sparkling attire and even bare feet!  It was the perfect representation of the diverse musical and culinary lineup that made Bottlerock Napa Valley 2024 the most memorable experience.