How to Do Sandbox Festival Right If It's Your First Time

It goes without saying that electronic music festivals aren’t for the faint of heart. At Egypt’s Sandbox Festival, El Gouna is transformed into a temporary pocket of paradise, with eight stages running around the clock and a lineup spanning some of the most compelling local, regional, and international acts. From May 7th to May 9th, the music unfolds alongside a parallel program of wellness activities that carry the energy into the morning. 

With that in mind, we asked a slew of Sandbox regulars - DJs, creatives, and longtime attendees who return year after year - what first-timers should know to get the most out of the experience.

Nazli Reda 

Sound Engineer

“Pace yourself. Hydrate. Wear earplugs. AirTag your friends.”

Noushka Farag

Visual Artist

"Sandbox holds a very special place in my heart because I took part in all of them, and watched it grow into what it is today ♥️

My top advice would be to come early and leave late! Check out artists you've never heard before and support the local DJs! There are so many amazing artists at Sandbox that people miss out on because of their slots, or because they don't know them, and most of them end up playing incredible sets!"

Marwan Auf 

Sandbox Main Protector

"Whether you're working the festival or attending it, you're in for an unforgettable ride. This is my 8th edition, but my excitement is still the same all these years later. I have seen how Nacelle built this festival from scratch by paying attention to every detail, making sure that it lives up to and exceeds the expectations of its thousands of attendees. Every year it delivers something special!"

Seif Talaat Zein (STZ)

DJ

"Embrace and enjoy it from the first second, make new friends and memories and don't always chase big headliners. My most memorable Sandbox sets are from DJs that I had never heard of before then.

Don’t over-plan it. Wander. Say yes to new music. Drift between stages. Meet new people. The magic’s usually not where you expect it."

Zeyad Gohary 

Photographer

"When in doubt, leave your friends behind… the best of Sandbox can’t be planned. Make up for it by sending  a “XYZ stage NOOWWWWW” on your crew's WhatsApp group. 

Go early. Leave late. Avoid the crowds. 

The second afters is never worth it.

Drink lots of water. Take rehydration salts. 

Never leave Gouna right after the festival. Give yourself at least two days of recovery before you face reality. Go all out. You can sleep when you get back to work."

Waleed Moawfi 

DJ, Co-founder of Geeza Records

“Skip the afterparties, it’s a three-day festival and the daytime is always fun. 

If someone says “I’ll be right back,” they’re probably off on a side quest you won’t see them for hours.

Check out the micro stages as well as the main ones, there’s always some great local talent bringing heat.”

Seif Khrifan 

Carebox Doctor (10+ Years Keeping Sandbox Safe)

“Stay hydrated, wear ear plugs, comfy shoes, bring an extra layer for the night, pick a meeting spot in case you lose your friends and most importantly always know where the Carebox is so you can reach us easily whenever you need any help.”

Hannah Pattan 

Visual Artist 

“I've shifted between attending sandbox and working it over the years but definitely my main tips would be, do your own thing, wear comfortable shoes, respect those around you, have a good breakfast and come early. A lot of people like to come in the evening and I think they're missing out - so start your day nice and early in the sun  🌞🌻"

Akladios

DJ

"Sandbox is all about the music, and people coming together to really enjoy it. Get ready to get groovy! Pace yourself so you don’t miss a moment. It’s such a beautiful, safe experience you’ll keep going back. Everyone there shares the same love for music, so you’ll make beautiful connections. Be open to new experiences, new friends, and discovering amazing artists."

Loulii Megahed

Sound Healing Therapist & DJ

"My advice would be: Slow down, don't rush, trust and follow your ears then you will find your groove."