What To Expect at Grizzly Fest

Grizzly Fest is an annual popular music and arts festival in Fresno, California. The festival has grown in popularity, attracting thousands of music fans worldwide. But how did Grizzly Fest come to be, and what’s next for this beloved festival?

The first Grizzly Fest was held in 2014, organized by Fresno native Aren Hekimian. Hekimian envisioned creating a music festival in Fresno that would rival other prominent festivals in California, such as Coachella and Outside Lands. With the help of a dedicated team of volunteers, Hekimian brought his vision to life and held the first Grizzly Fest in the parking lot of Chukchansi Park.

The inaugural Grizzly Fest was a one-day event featuring local and regional artists, headliners, and Grammy-nominated rapper Del the Funky Homosapien. Despite some logistical challenges, such as sound issues and long lines, the festival was a success, drawing over 4,000 people.
Over the years, Grizzly Fest continued to grow and evolve. The festival expanded to two days in 2016 and moved to the larger Fresno Fairgrounds in 2017 to accommodate the growing number of attendees. The lineup also became more diverse, featuring a mix of local and national acts across various genres, including hip-hop, indie rock, and electronic dance music.

In addition to music, Grizzly Fest also features art installations, food vendors, and a variety of interactive experiences. The festival has become an important cultural event in the Central Valley, drawing visitors from across the region and beyond.

Looking to the future, Grizzly Fest shows no signs of slowing down. The festival plans to expand even further, hoping to become a three-day event eventually. With its unique blend of music, art, and community, Grizzly Fest will remain a special event for years.