Way Out West 2019

Gothenburg, Sweden

Way Out West 2019: Sweden’s Musical Giant!

One of Sweden’s number one music festivals is back this Summer and bringing a massive lineup to its stunning woodland setting. Way Out West is Gothenburg’s annual music and film festival takes place at Slottskogen City Park for three days in August. The festival features some of the biggest local and international names in the world, as well as the hottest new-comers, film premieres, challenging conversations and more. Way Out West even offers ‘Stay Out West’, a unique vegetarian food and robust club program that takes place in central Gothenburg. Since its debut well over a decade ago, the festival has won multiple awards, particularly for its sustainability as well as its intimate and inclusive atmosphere. 

“The three-day festival is a must for all music-loving, culturally oriented young minds” 

Over 100 artists are expected to perform at this years edition of Way Out West, which is expected to attract over 30,000 per day across the three-day event. This year’s lineup features a diverse range of international headlining acts; including American rapper Cardi B, English singer-songwriter James Blake and Swedish Singer Zara Larsson. The likes of Stormzy, The Cure, Seinabo Say and Honey Dijon can also be found on the massive lineup.

Where to view Way Out West 2019

Way Out West takes place at Slottskogen Park in Gothenburg, Sweden. You can find the event at Slottskogspromenaden, 414 76 Goteborg, Sweden. 

How to get around Gothenburg

The nearest major airport is Gothenburg-Landvetter Airport, located approximately 20 minutes east of the city centre. Most major and budget airlines operate throughout this airport, making it easy for visitors to travel to and from this event. Getting around Gothenburg is easy as the city has a wide range of public transport options. A single public transport ticket/card gives you access to Gothenburg’s trains, buses and boats. There are also many taxi options available throughout the city, however, the fares are not regulated in Sweden. Approved taxis will always carry yellow number plates and popular companies include Taxi Kurir, Taxi Goteborg and Minitaxi. 

Styr & Ställ, Gothenburg’s bike rental system, makes it easy and affordable to rent bicycles throughout the city. Over 60 rental stations can be found around the city and bikes can be picked up and dropped off at any station. The first 30 minutes of any rental is free; followed by 10 SEK for an additional 30 minutes and 20 SEK after that. Electric scooters have also become increasingly popular throughout the city through the app ‘Voi’. You can locate dockless scooters throughout the city via the app and rent them for 1.50 SEK per minute; in addition to a 10 SEK starting fee. 

Where to stay for Way Out West 2019

There are a range of accommodation options available throughout the city of Gothenburg. Everything from shared hostel rooms to boutique hotels and Airbnbs can be found in and around the city centre. If you are visiting for the first time, we recommend staying in the city centre; as the festival is easily accessible by public transport. 

There are also two nearby accommodation options located within walking distance of the event. Slottsskogens Hostel and Linnéplatsens Hotell offer both shared dorms as well as private rooms; with rates starting at around $30 per night. You can explore a range of nearby options below. 

Things to do in Gothenburg 

Gothenburg offers a number of popular attractions ranging from historical buildings and venues to stunning outdoor escapes. Gothenburg Botanical Garden is one of many popular outdoor locations; featuring large, tranquil gardens with walking and running paths, greenhouses, water features and more. Similar venues include the Universeum; a vast science centre with a rainforest zone, and the Horticultural Society; a 19th-century park feature a rose garden, woodland, sculptures and more; and of course, the Slottsskogen. Popular museums include the Gothenburg Museum of Art, the Volvo Museum and the Museum of Gothenburg. 

If you’re seeking a thrilling adventure, Gothenburg’s popular amusement park ‘Liseberg’ features a number of rollercoasters amongst many other rides, as well as a garden. It is one of the most visited amusement parks in Scandinavia. 

If you are exploring the city centre, make sure to stop by Haga; a charming area of the city featuring traditional wooden buildings and cobbled streets. Haga is home to a number of candlelit cafes and pubs, bistros, bakeries, quaint stores and more. It is also home to Skansen Kronan; a 17th-century fortress. Just a short walk across the bridge is Feskekôra, an indoor fish market and popular attraction in Gothenburg. The long-running seafood market features two restaurants and offers a range of freshly prepared foods.

Who to see at Way Out West 2019

This year’s edition of Way Out West features over 100 local and international artists from across all genres of music. Here are three acts you definitely don’t want to miss at Way Out West 2019! 

Cardi B – American singer, rapper and songwriter Cardi B is one of many international headlining acts at Way Out West 2019. Kicking off her career only four years ago, this artist has quickly risen to fame and has even won multiple awards including Grammy’s, American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards and even Guinness World Records! Make sure to check out the American superstar and sing along to her catchy chart-topping tracks. 

Jon Hopkins – Performing an exclusive live set, English musician and producer Jon Hopkins is definitely one to watch. Originating on the keyboard, the musician has produced and contributed to albums for many popular artists including David Holmes and Coldplay. After producing the award-winning movie soundtracks, Jon Hopkins continues to showcase his talent throughout live performances on some of the biggest stages in the world.

Zara Larsson – Swedish hero Zara Larsson will be one of many hometown talents to perform at this year’s edition of Way Out West. The singer/songwriter achieved national fame at only 10 years old after winning Sweden’s Got Talent. She has since gained international stardom with a number of popular tracks including ‘Lush Life’ and ‘Never Forget You’. Seeing someone perform in their home country is always an incredible experience and definitely should not be missed. 

Way Out West 2019 Dates

The next edition of Way Out West festival will take place from August 8-10, 2019.