Crowd Test Helipad Edition: Best Music. Best People. Best Saturday Night

by Dara Morgan

Crowd Test Helipad Edition: Best Music. Best People. Best Saturday Night

18 Feb 2025

Good parties are like children — you wait for them, you want everything to be perfect, and then, in the blink of an eye, they are gone, leaving you wishing they could have stayed just a little longer. That is exactly how we feel about last Crowd Test at Helipad that took place on February 15.

We gathered the best people in the city to soak up a picture-perfect creek view with a gentle evening breeze (oh, how we will miss it in upcoming summer months), great music, cool art, and some pretty damn good Margaritas. And, of course, our friends from Power Horse didn't disappoint, rolling up with their signature fridge full of energy-packed drinks to keep the party going long into the night.

Photo: Fedya Ro

Early birds got the beats (and the Art)

Arriving late? A rookie mistake. Those who turned up early were treated to a vibrant set by Hani J, the kind of warm-up that made it clear this was not going to be just another Saturday night. A laid-back atmosphere, good conversation by the water, and a chance to admire Fatspatrol’s powerful artwork from her Between Hope and Devastation series — what more could one ask for? Well, thanks to The Workshop DXB, we managed to bring art and music together in one seamless experience.

Photo: Fedya Ro

The most unconventional photo zone in town

Think this was a refined soirée without a proper party vibe? Think again. The photo zone — a repurposed old fridge — stood proudly, inviting every guest to leave their mark (literally) on the door. What was inside, you ask? A delightful chaos — some milk, eggs, sneakers, and books (which, let us be honest, is probably what any Sandy Times member’s fridge looks like in the weeks leading up to an event).

Photo: Fedya Ro

When the beat took over

As more guests arrived (and let us just take a moment to appreciate that ours are some of the most stylish people in Dubai), Kito Jempere and Lipelis took over the stage for an unforgettable back-to-back performance. The beats left no one indifferent, as the night unfolded into a perfect mix of a cool Dubai evening, a red-hot dancefloor, and an endless supply of energy.

Photo: Fedya Ro

And that was just the warm-up. When Frankfurt legend Ata stepped up, the crowd was more than ready. What time did everyone go home? We will not say — but, honestly, who needs sleep anyway?

Photo: Fedya Ro

The next one? Oh, it is coming

Will we do this again? You bet. Keep The Sandy Times close (and our Instagram closer!), and make sure to save a slot for us this spring. We are going to close out the season in style. And do not say we did not warn you — bring your sleekest outfit. You will want to look the part.

Photo: Fedya Ro

by Dara Morgan