Camp Flog Gnaw Returns: Childish Gambino and Tyler, The Creator Shine

The highly anticipated Camp Flog Gnaw festival made its return on November 22, 2025, at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. Originally scheduled for November 15-16, the event was postponed due to heavy storms that affected travel and prompted ticket refunds. This year’s festival, curated by renowned artist Tyler, The Creator, featured a more intimate atmosphere, attracting a crowd primarily composed of local fans who secured last-minute tickets.

Headlining the first night, Childish Gambino delivered a poignant performance, sharing personal stories of health struggles, including a stroke he experienced. His candidness resonated with the audience, creating an unexpected but emotionally charged environment. “They say everybody has two lives, and the second life starts when you realize you have one,” he told attendees, emphasizing the importance of living authentically.

The shift to a more reflective tone was evident throughout the festival. Fans navigated the venue with ease, enjoying the slower pace compared to previous years. Luis Domingez, a first-time attendee, remarked, “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.”

Performances That Captured Hearts

The festival showcased a variety of performances that added to its unique charm. Early highlights included a captivating set from Geese, whose blend of indie rock and experimental sounds drew an unexpectedly large crowd. As the sun set, the New York band created a vibrant atmosphere that felt like a hidden gem discovery.

Following Geese, Earl Sweatshirt presented a laid-back performance, inviting friends and family on stage, which transformed his set into a relaxed gathering rather than a typical festival show. “Man, this just feels like a family reunion, doesn’t it?” he commented, capturing the festival’s overall vibe.

The emotional depth continued with Kali Uchis, who mesmerized the audience with her visually rich performance. Midway through her set, she paused for a montage of family footage and childhood memories, sharing her experiences growing up in an immigrant household. Her powerful message about human rights and community resonated deeply, particularly in a city shaped by immigrant labor. “ICE is terrorizing our community, and these are violations against human rights,” she declared, prompting a heartfelt response from the crowd.

As the night progressed, Childish Gambino’s performance included fan favorites such as “Redbone” and “This Is America.” His thoughtful pacing allowed the audience to reflect on the deeper messages woven throughout his lyrics.

Tyler, The Creator Closes with Impact

Closing the night, Tyler, The Creator brought a mix of nostalgia and energy to the stage. He creatively designed his set to resemble a metro map of his musical journey, with each album era represented. During his performance, a technical glitch led to a humorous announcement about an earthquake, prompting him to segue into “EARFQUAKE,” a clever play on the unexpected moment.

Tyler addressed the festival’s postponement directly, emphasizing the collective effort that went into ensuring the event could still take place. “The easiest thing to do was cancel it, but that didn’t feel right with my spirit,” he stated, acknowledging the hard work of his team and the support of the fans.

Throughout the festival grounds, attendees engaged in low-key activities, from screen-printing shirts to resting in designated decompression areas. The overall atmosphere felt warmer and friendlier, offering a sense of community that contrasted sharply with the high-energy vibe typical of previous editions.

“This is such an awesome way to celebrate,” Tyler remarked, highlighting the significance of the event in a year filled with changes. The festival, while not smaller in scale, fostered an environment marked by connection and reflection, demonstrating a shift in the Camp Flog Gnaw experience.

The return of Camp Flog Gnaw not only delivered memorable performances but also reinforced a sense of belonging among attendees, creating lasting memories in the heart of Los Angeles.