I have been to a few music festivals before, but there’s always something exciting about trying a new one, especially with the right company. This year, my boyfriend Choc and I cleared our schedules to attend our first-ever Aurora Music Festival, and day one didn’t disappoint.
We arrived a bit before sunset, just as the crowd started filling the open field. There were groups in matching outfits, fans carrying light sticks, and couples like us just looking for a good spot to sit. The energy was relaxed but buzzing—people chatting, eating, and waiting for the first act.
The lineup was stacked—BGYO, Moira Dela Torre, Arthur Nery, TJ Monterde, Rico Blanco, and BINI—and it drew a mix of Gen Z fans, longtime OPM listeners, and attendees who just wanted to make their weekend special.
P-pop group BGYO kicked things off, and they didn’t hold back. Their energy, choreography, and interaction with the crowd set the tone early.
When Moira came on next, the vibe shifted into something calmer, more intimate. As usual, her voice was soft but steady, and the field quieted down as she sang heartbreak anthems and love songs she is known for.
Arthur Nery followed, bringing his laid-back charm and signature falsetto that had the audience swaying. His set was smooth and effortless, and it was clear the crowd knew every lyric from his hit tracks such as “Pagsamo” and “Isa Lang.”
Singer-songwriter TJ kept that easygoing feel going, mixing sentimental tracks with casual stage talk that made the show feel more personal, even from where we stood. Near the end of his set, the crowd got a surprise: KZ Tandingan stepped out for a duet of their song “Palagi.” The two shared the stage naturally, and the chemistry between them was as felt as the music itself. It was one of the standout moments of the night for me. It was purely magical.
Not long after, Rico Blanco took the stage—and so did the rain. At first, it was just a drizzle, but by his fourth song, it turned into a steady downpour. Still, the crowd didn’t budge. Umbrellas went up, picnic mats were used as covers, and then he played his classic hit track “You’ll Be Safe Here.” It felt like no one minded being drenched. The song was a personal favorite; I held Choc’s hand tighter.
It was around 11:00 p.m. when BINI took the stage. Their performance was sharp and upbeat despite the wet stage and tired crowd. The group’s colorful visuals and tight choreography helped end the festival on a high note, giving everyone one last reason to dance before heading home.
Aurora’s first night had all the marks of a memorable music festival—big performances, an unexpected rainshow, surprise moments, and a crowd that came for the music and stayed for everything else.
For our first Aurora, it left a pretty good mark on us. Definitely worth the trip.