The Sounds of Summer
July 28th, 2026
About the Event
The inaugural "Lei’d Out Loud" music festival brought a beach-themed celebration to Florida State University’s Union Green on April 18, featuring regional indie rock musicians and a crowd adorned in floral prints and leis. The festival was entirely student-organized, originating from a friendship between Weatherboys frontman Jacob Da Costa and Creative Director Josie Liederman, both residents of FSU’s Music Living-Learning Community in Cawthon Hall.
Organizing Team
The festival was spearheaded by a team of four undergraduates:
- Josie Liederman – Creative Director
- Jacob Da Costa – Weatherboys frontman and co-founder
- Alana Ginter – Manager
- Sandra Kiggen – CDU Talent Buyer
The team handled all aspects of production, including contracts, sponsorships, logistics, safety, venue booking, insurance, artist hospitality, and merchandise design.
Funding and Sponsorships
The festival was free to the public while ensuring fair compensation for artists, achieved through grassroots fundraising and a partnership with Dr. Greg Jones and the FSU College of Music. Sponsors received promotion across digital and physical marketing channels, the festival website, and onsite branding.
Performances
Hundreds of attendees enjoyed sets from bands like Rohna, The Nancys, Hello Sister, Stellus, Walking Blue, and alumna Sophia Camille, culminating with headliner Edgehill and host band Weatherboys. Weatherboys debuted a custom light show designed by guitarist Bryce Ouzts.
Future Plans
Despite the organizers nearing graduation, positive community feedback has inspired them to turn Lei’d Out Loud into an annual tradition. Plans for 2027 include higher production values, expanded marketing, and securing new sponsorships.
“Day of show logistics went very smoothly, and all of our artists were happy! Everyone who showed up seemed to have a lot of fun,” said Liederman.