Northern Nights 2014 is just around the corner, beginning next Friday (7/18) off Cali's beautiful Highway 101 in Piercy. The festival takes place at Cooks Valley Campground—an intimate spot along the Eel River in California's "Redwood Curtain" that lays on the Humboldt/Mendocino border.

Because of the intimate (and very remote and natural) setting, guests can look forward to an up-close-and-personal show with some of their favorite DJs and electronic acts—all with badass acoustics between ancient redwood trunks and NoCal's rolling hills. This year's lineup includes a roster of eclectic EDM acts, including well-known artists like Beats Antique, The Floozies, Viceroy, and Justin Martin. The lineup also includes hip-hop acts (which I'm pretty stoked for), like Zion I and Two Fresh, and acts like Dimond Saints, Clear Plastic Plates, and so many more.

Northern Nights is a special festival, too. Like many others, its founders have a big focus on sustainability and leaving no trace behind. But its mission is to remain boutique, unlike many of the big-name festivals, particularly in the EDM genre. Yoga, art installations, (all night) "Silent Friscos," and craft beers and local wines are all part of the Northern Nights scene.

The drive to Cooks Valley is amazing, too—whether coming from north or south, east or west. In fact, I stumbled across the venue by chance last summer during Northern Nights while venturing to the Lost Coast. I stopped for gas, and wondered where all the beautiful, festive folks were heading. I came across a flier for the show and knew I had to return, which I'll be doing next week. Stay tuned for artist interviews and post-festival coverage. And be sure to follow @Ultra5280's Instagram account for photo coverage of the event throughout the course of the weekend. 

Tickets are still available, so grab 'em while you can, and head to the redwoods for a party you'll never forget. Things are bound to be colorful—and Jurassic. 

By Ashley M. Halligan