Camp Flog Gnaw Festival Returns with Intimate Atmosphere

The Camp Flog Gnaw festival made its return on November 22, 2025, at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, delivering an intimate atmosphere that differed significantly from previous years. Originally scheduled for November 15-16, heavy storms had forced organizers to postpone the sold-out event, leaving fans eager yet uncertain. This year’s festival, curated by prominent rap artist Tyler, The Creator, saw a crowd primarily composed of local attendees who seized the opportunity to attend last-minute.

Headlining the first night, Childish Gambino captivated the audience with not just his music but also poignant reflections on life. “They say everybody has two lives, and the second life starts when you realize you have one,” he shared during his set. His vulnerability resonated with festival-goers, who were more subdued than typical for a festival of this size. The atmosphere was markedly calmer, allowing for a deeper connection between the artists and the audience.

The festival featured a variety of performances throughout the day, including standout acts like Geese, who delivered a dynamic set that fused influences from iconic bands such as Radiohead and The Strokes. As the sun set, the New York band drew an unexpectedly large crowd, showcasing the festival’s reputation for serendipitous musical discoveries.

Performing later, Earl Sweatshirt created a familial vibe on the Gnaw stage. With friends and family surrounding him, his set resembled a casual gathering rather than a major festival performance. At one point, he remarked, “Man, this just feels like a family reunion, doesn’t it?” This sense of nostalgia permeated the evening, especially given his long-standing connection with Tyler, The Creator.

Kali Uchis, another significant performer, took the stage with a visually stunning show that included elaborate staging and emotional storytelling. Midway through her performance, she shared personal narratives about her upbringing in an immigrant household, emphasizing the struggles faced by Latino communities. Her heartfelt message struck a chord in a city rich in immigrant history, leading to a powerful moment of silence followed by applause.

As the night progressed, Childish Gambino performed fan favorites such as “Redbone” and “This Is America,” but it was the reflective pauses that stood out. The audience, already in a contemplative mood, absorbed the messages woven through his music.

Tyler, The Creator closed the night with an energetic set that showcased his artistic journey. He addressed the festival’s postponement, acknowledging the collaborative effort required to make the event happen. “The fact that we could get everyone on the same page and that all of you still showed up, you don’t understand what that means to us,” he shared, expressing gratitude to the attendees and those involved in the festival’s production.

Beyond the music, the festival offered a range of activities, including screen-printing workshops and relaxing spaces for attendees to unwind. The festival grounds felt different this year—less frantic and more akin to a gathering of old friends. Many festival-goers, like Luis Domingez from Eagle Rock, noted the relaxed atmosphere, saying, “I noticed a lot of locals were able to come at the last minute. It’s something we couldn’t make in the past, but we’re here for the first time.”

This edition of Camp Flog Gnaw, while not smaller in scale, resonated with warmth and community spirit, a departure from its typically high-energy, frenetic pace. As Tyler remarked during his set, “This is such an awesome way to celebrate. I appreciate each and every one of you.” The festival successfully merged music, personal stories, and local culture, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.