Øya Festival, in many ways, embodies the best sides of the city. Tucked close to the centre, it contrasts lush greenery with an urban feel. It bottles the capital’s spirit with a hedonistic twist. Overpriced pints and ageing hipsters meet cascades of fans in pink cowboy hats, ready to stan their pop faves.
There’s a notable shift in fan culture this year. Øya crowds are usually tough to impress, but now, fans lead the way — especially on the opening days, as Chappell Roan and Charli xcx reign supreme. Coordinated outfits flood the grounds: pink, OTT clown makeup and tiaras for Chappell; brat green, kinky sunglasses and Arial Narrow for Charli.
Both artists deliver undeniable highlights. Their sets are stacked with hits, and the energy is electric. Two-thirds into Charli’s set, an audience member wonders aloud: “Does she even have any more hits left?” Somehow, she keeps them coming. By the time she closes with the Icona Pop classic 'I Love It', it’s clear—as Charli herself puts it—that 'Brat' “is a forever thing”. Earlier that day, she even found time to introduce a film screening for Joachim Trier.
