Southampton - The Shinnecock Indian Nations PowWow grounds were transformed into world of wonder this weekend for the first ever Escape2NY festival. The brainchild of Fred Fellowes, Escape2NY was modeled after the U.K.'s famed Secret Garden Party. "I don't think it was ever in my plans or thoughts to expand the Secret Garden Party to New York, if it wasn't for the introduction to the Shinnecock Nation," said Fellowes.

Inside of Braindrop - a sculpture by Kate Raudenbush. (Nicole A. Flotteron)

The event, which has been two years in the making, was far more than a music festival; it was a highly interactive party featuring a mix of art, music, culinary experiences, and a shopping bazaar. "Our underlying theme is that being involved in something is more fun than watching something," Fellowes said of the festival.

The Shinnecock Indian Nation, which had fought for 30 years for federal recognition, and struggled to increase profits for its people, agreed to host the event on their PowWow grounds, and in doing so, formed a unique partnership with Fellowes and his vision for the festival. Aside from providing an income stream to the Shinnecock Nation, Escape2NY helped to fix up several buildings on the PowWow grounds; helped to do some landscaping, as well as clearing of overgrowth.

For Fellowes, it is the non-tangible effect the festival had on the Shinnecock people that mattered most; "There's such a cultural impact. All of the members of the tribe I've met have been having a great time," explained Fellowes. "It's all rather new and brilliant."

Festival goers donned their hippie-chic best, frequented the beverage tent, and danced the day and night away as they bounced between the dance tent, main stage, acoustic stage, and art installations, which were curated by Winkel and Balktick.

While attendance was reportedly low on the first day of the three-day festival, numbers peaked by Saturday evening to near capacity in anticipation of a performance by indie folk group Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeroes.

Edward Sharpe performing his hit song "40 Day Dream" at Escape2NY. (Nicole A. Flotteron)

The festival also featured performances by Patti Smith of Montreal, The Vaccines, Best Coast, Mates of State, Chairlift, The Postelles, The Psychdelic Furs, White Rabbits, Au Revoir Simone, Hank and Cupcakes, Reptar, and many more.

According to Fellowes, each day of the festival followed a different theme, which was then reflected in the art and décor of the main stage. The performances on Friday had more of a rock 'n roll influence, while Saturday's performances were crossover. Unfortunately, Sunday's performances, which were to be dance beat and rhythm oriented were cancelled due to inclement weather.

Perhaps the most eclectic mix of people was found in the area behind the main stage, known as the "woodlands area." The trees provided concert goers with shade and respite from the hot sun by day. By dusk, the woodlands appeared almost enchanted, as colored light and art installations illuminated the historic Reservation grounds. "The woodlands has got the best vibe and the best style," said Fellowes. Concert goers sat on blankets and in hammocks in the woodlands, as well as frequenting the woodlands bar and dancing.

When the night drew to a close, concert goers had the option of going "glamping," a new and luxurious take on a traditional camping. Glampers enjoyed boutique accommodations, and perhaps most popular, frequenting the Shanghai Mermaid; a speakeasy cabaret reminiscent of clubs in the 1920s and 1930s.

The Escape2NY Festival brought a new culture of art and music to the Hamptons in what will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most unique and entertaining music festivals the East End has ever seen. Early this morning, Escape2NY announced that it would be back again next summer to host the festival again. "An important part of this is taking ownership of this event and taking it forward. I'm very excited to see what we can design for next year, and how much better it can be," said Fellowes.