Shabang 2025: Why San Luis Obispo County is the perfect backdrop!

By Holly Owen, FestForums | May 13, 2025

There's something magical about a festival that feels both intimate and expansive, local yet world-class. Shabang 2025, nestled in the hills of San Luis Obispo County, has mastered this balance, creating an experience that stands out in today's crowded festival landscape.

San Luis Obispo County, also known as SLO, offers a departure from the typical festival setting. Unlike desert festivals or urban music events, SLO presents a quaint, accessible backdrop that immediately puts you at ease. The county itself feels like a well-kept secret, with its panoramic views and coast line, it's hard to go wrong.

The local beer and wine offerings deserved their own headlining slot, with SLO County's reputation as a wine region and emerging craft beer destination on full display. Across the festival grounds, companies eagerly promoted their products, from craft sparkling waters to new alcoholic beverages making their debut. The festival has clearly become the place for brands to showcase their offerings to an enthusiastic audience.

What struck me most was how Shabang maintained the soul of a community event while delivering the production value of a major festival. Everywhere I turned, I saw local installations from San Luis Obispo artists, local food vendors, San Luis Obispo music acts all while the production quality rivalled much larger events.

For those planning their festival agenda for next year, I'd suggest marking Shabang 2026 on your calendars now. Just be prepared: once you experience a festival in the hills of SLO County with its impressive lineup and intimate vibe, you will want to go back year after year.