It’s no surprise that the “greatest band in the world” responsible for the tribute to the greatest song in the world are the ones responsible for the Coachella of comedy (or perhaps the Lolsapalooza?).
Yes Jack Black and Kyle Gass of Tenacious D are the curators of this Los Angeles festival and boy have they got some funny friends and musical talents to entice you there.
Held at the LA Sports Arena and Exposition Park in 2014, the inaugural 2013 event was situated at the Santa Monica Pier and featured the likes of Adam Sandler, Lonely Island, The Mighty Boosh, Sarah Silverman and Zach Galifianakis to name just a few.
Black and Gass had the idea for this comedy and music event in mind since the 80s when they first wanted to name the festival “Monsters of Comedy Rock”, as they discussed with Rolling Stone.
And what are their motives for bringing the forces of comedy and music together for a festival? Their response is as nonchalant as you’d expect.
“There’s no real objective here other than to put on the greatest show this town has ever seen,” says Black.
Although he continues with just a touch more intent, “I feel like there’s an empty hole there too. Like why hasn’t there ever been a really kick-ass comedy festival in Los Angeles? I can’t think of one. It’s like a no-brainer. This is where they all are. You don’t even have to fly anybody out”.
Unsurprisingly the first event went down without a hitch. Spin noted highlights from Garfunkel and Oates, The Mighty Boosh and Fred Armisen to name just a few.
Although as Jack Black himself noted during Tenacious D’s set the festival wasn’t without its imperfections.
“I would like to thank whoever’s idea it was to play Adam Sandler’s set on the Jumbotron during Mr. Show’s set. That was planned. We planned that out. It might have gone over some of your heads. It was pretty advanced comedy.”
With a venue upgrade 2014 is likely to be even bigger. This time around Dethklok Metalocalypse, Cheech & Chong, Workaholics, Margaret Cho, Fred Armisen & Bill Hader, Peaches, The Eagles Of Death Metal and Arj Barker amongst others will provide the side splitting inducing material on October 25th.
Check out the incredible poster art below and read on to discover our six-step guide to getting to and experiencing this laugh-tastic event.
1. Book Ahead Before It’s Too Late
Los Angeles may not have the greatest reputation amongst other American cities but its greatest asset for Aussie travellers is that you won’t need a connecting flight. Most Australian capitals will fly direct to the city so book sooner rather than later to get the cheapest flights available. You’re spoilt for choice airline wise. Just about every major and minor airline flies to the American metropolis. Before you book flights though you’d best snag a ticket before they sell out. Tickets went on sale on the 30th of May via this link. They’ll set you back US $99 (that’s aprox $106.55 in Australian dollars) or $250 ($269.10) for VIP passes. VIP gets you express entry, special viewing at each stage and tent, lounge access, exclusive food and beverage stalls and more.
2. So Where Should I Stay While I’m In LA?
The bigger the city the more accommodation options so be prepared to do a little research depending on availabilities and what type of accommodation you’d prefer. Although just about everyone is catered for here regardless of the price spectrum or luxury preferences. If you’re looking for hostels we’d recommend PodShare, Banana Bungalow Hollywood, Surf City Hostel, USA Hostels Hollywood and Hostelling International LA.
3. What’s The Best Way To Get To The Venue?
The Los Angeles Sports Arena and Exposition Park isn’t located that far from Downtown LA so regardless of your place of accommodation it shouldn’t be too hard to get to the venue on the day of the festival. While the famous LA saying of “why walk when you can catch a cab” certainly applies here too, public transport will serve you well if you that’s your transport of choice. The USC/Exposition Park Station is – as its name suggests – right outside the Exposition Park. The station is well lit, close to museums, bus routes and plenty of food spots and has adequate security in place too. Check out LA’s Metro website to plan your journey.
4. What ‘Fashun’ Digs Should I Wear Weather Wise?
Festival Supreme may be the Coachella of comedy but we’re almost certain it won’t have the same fashion-trumps-music element that that mega music festival has become known for in the past few years. However it’s worth knowing what the weather is going to be like in LA come October. While it’ll be Spring here in Australia and Autumn in America that doesn’t mean it’ll be chilly. Expect an average high of 24°C and pack some Summer digs along with a few warmer clothes just in case and you should be set!
5. Plan Ahead. The Lineup Is Massive.
“Well, duh” you might say but after the first event there were a few complaints from fans about the scheduling and that it was tough to get from one stage to another. While the latter complaint should be all but resolved with a change in venue, there are just as many acts this year as last year and you can expect some big clashes. While no news has arrived just yet of a phone app we’d advise you plan well ahead so you don’t miss your favourites. Keep an eye out on the website for maps and timetables.
6. I’ve Come All This Way To Los Angeles, What Else Should I Do In This City?
Good question! And yes of course we can help. A little while ago we put together a music guide to the Californian city that highlights the best festivals, record stores and venues you should check out alongside some killer local acts. Vinyl hunters won’t believe the size of Amoeba Records and fans will love the famous venue in Troubadour.
Check out our guide to the Los Angeles music scene here.
Need more information? Head to the official Festival Supreme website for the answers to all your questions.
