Every summer, my family and I gear up for one of our favorite traditions: running the photobooth at some of the biggest music festivals in the country. We’ve just celebrated our 6th year at Kidzapalooza, the lively kids’ area at Lollapalooza, and are diving into our second year at Austin Kiddie Limits, the family-friendly zone at Austin City Limits. This isn’t just a job for us; it’s a chance to immerse ourselves in the vibrant festival atmosphere, enjoy incredible music, and connect with a community of like-minded, kid-loving business owners.
Table of Contents
- The Morning Hustle: Setting the Stage
- Capturing the Magic: Photobooth Fun
- More Than Just Music: A Community of Kid-Loving Vendors
- A Family Affair: Working Together, Playing Together
The Morning Hustle: Setting the Stage
Our festival days start early, as we jump into setting up the photobooth. There’s a lot to prepare—backdrops, cameras, and ensuring everything is perfectly in place. At Kidzapalooza, we’re surrounded by the buzz of excited children and their parents, all ready for a day of music and fun. Over at Austin Kiddie Limits, the Texas sun greets us, and the anticipation builds as we prepare to capture memories that families will cherish for a lifetime.
But it’s not just about the setup. One of the perks of working these festivals is getting to see some of the best artists perform live. From the soulful tunes of Mumford and Sons to the electrifying performances by Labrinth and Childish Gambino, we’ve had the chance to enjoy world-class music while doing what we love. Watching Chance the Rapper light up the stage or grooving to The Q Brothers and The Pop-Ups with our kids is an experience that blends our professional work with personal joy.
Capturing the Magic: Photobooth Fun
Once everything is in place, the photobooth becomes the heart of the kids’ area. At Kidzapalooza, we’ve seen toddlers dressed as mini rock stars and families in full festival-themed costumes. Each photo captures a moment of pure happiness, a snapshot of the festival’s magic that families can take home with them.
In Austin, the vibe is just as energetic, with its own unique flair. Kids pose in cowboy hats, families embrace the eclectic Austin style, and sometimes even pets join in on the fun. The diversity of the people we meet and the creativity they bring to the photobooth make every day a new adventure.
More Than Just Music: A Community of Kid-Loving Vendors
While the music is a major highlight, what makes these festivals truly special is the sense of community. We’re surrounded by other kid-loving businesses and vendors who share our passion for creating a fun, safe, and engaging environment for families. Working alongside these incredible vendors, whether it’s at Kidzapalooza, Austin Kiddie Limits, or local events like Bubblespalooza with Bubbles Academy, is always a pleasure. It’s a supportive network where everyone is dedicated to making the festival experience unforgettable for the little ones.
We’ve also had the chance to collaborate with local businesses at events like the Chicago Baby Shower and the Hippo Social Club’s dog-friendly 5k in Austin. Each event offers a unique opportunity to connect with families and other businesses that prioritize fun and community.
A Family Affair: Working Together, Playing Together
The best part of this journey is that it’s a family affair. My husband and kids are just as involved in the festival fun as I am. Whether they’re helping set up, testing the equipment, or just enjoying the music, it’s a way for us to bond, share experiences, and create memories that we’ll cherish forever.
As we pack up after a long day, there’s a deep sense of satisfaction. We’ve been a part of something bigger—capturing the essence of these festivals, one photo at a time. And as we head home, tired but fulfilled, we know we’ll be back next year, ready to do it all over again.
From the electrifying performances by artists like The Killers and Childish Gambino to the camaraderie of working with amazing vendors, every festival season leaves us inspired and excited for what’s to come. Here’s to many more years of music, memories, and family fun!