Wander around at night
With its otherworldly lights and art installations, Spirit Lake casts a serious spell. Plus, the two stages here host under-the-radar musicians where you might discover a new star.
Boogie in the silent discos
They're also at Spirit Lake. DJs spin, dancers gyrate, lights flash – but there's nary a sound (except in one's headphones). The scene repeats until the sun comes up.
Decorate your campsite
Unlike many fests,where everyone plops down in an overgrown field, Suwannee's campsites sprinkle around the grounds under shady trees, with bathrooms and hot-water showers in abundance. What's more, campers decorate their sites with ghosts, cobwebs, pumpkins and other Halloween staples. The fest awards the most creative site with VIP tickets.
Go canoeing
The Suwannee River, which runs through the park, is prime for paddling. It's also handy for swimming, fishing and hiking via pretty trails.
Hit the Thursday pre-party
It costs extra, but you can set up camp early and experience sweet funk bands in a more intimate atmosphere.
Getting There
The nearest main airport is in Jacksonville (JAX), 79 miles away.
Lodging
Most people pitch a tent in the park's campsites. Cabins and RV hookups are available, but cost extra. The town of Live Oak, eight miles south, has a handful of hotels.