With summer winding down, many people look for something enjoyable to do during Labor Day weekend. Some opt for going to the beach, laying by the pool, or grilling out, but what better way is there to end the summer than with a music festival? “Made in America” is a local two-day festival where accomplished DJs and singers perform. Established in 2012 by esteemed rapper Jay-Z, Made in America was first held in Philadelphia but then moved to Los Angeles before returning to Philly. Every year, along with a variety musical artists, Made in America hosts one headliner both nights of the festival. This year, pop singer Rihanna performed on Saturday, while alternative rock band Coldplay gave their last ever performance on Sunday night.

Over the summer, friends can become disconnected after not seeing each other every day. It is important to keep in touch at this time of year, so “MIA” provides a great opportunity to bring people together through a passion for music. Emma Davis ’18 attended with her close friends: “I loved Made in America, because it was really fun to spend the last weekend of summer with all of my friends while listening to great music.” Ending the summer sharing a love for music creates great bonding experiences and endless memories. Music enthusiast Ryan Fischer ’18 remembers, “The experience was so much fun! There was a lot of music, great friends, and great food!”

The lineup at this year’s festival was full of big names, drawing huge crowds. In addition to Rihanna and Coldplay, Chance the Rapper, LilWayne, Martin Garrix, and Travis Scott performed. On top of all of these famous sets, the festival was filled with moments that ranged from wild to sad, and everything in between. An example of this was the somber yet celebratory mood during Coldplay’s last time playing together.  

Mixed into almost every set was some act that made the entire crowd stop and stare. Whether it was Travis Scott jumping off stage to climb a tree, or Jay Electronica calling over a thousand fans to rush the stage, the performers knew how to give the festival goers a once in a lifetime experience.  What really shone through the festival and its moments of chaos and joy were its moments of unity. Every walk of life was represented at Made in America, yet there were absolutely no major fights or signs of conflict. With so much tension and violence in our country today, Made in America was a light of hope for unity, even through something as simple as music.

With all of the upcoming assignments and activities that school brings, simply enjoying music was an excellent way to end the summer. After completing all of their summer work, students were glad to take a deep breath and have the final weekend to themselves. Nick Gauthier ’17, another festival-goer, added, “Made in America was a great way to let loose and clear my mind of stress for the upcoming school year with good music and friends. It was the perfect end to summer as the music let me escape, reminisce, and forget everything on my mind while prolonging the last hours of the summer.” Made in America is definitely an enjoyable event and a great way to live the last days of summer to the fullest.