The 1980s was a decade filled with memorable music, fashion, and cultural trends. One of the standout aspects of this era was the magic of the music produced during this time. Aptly called "Magic songs 80s," it encapsulated a feeling of nostalgia, escapism, and pure joy. During the 80s, various genres flourished, including pop, rock, electronic, and new wave. Iconic artists and bands emerged, shaping the music scene with their unique sounds and catchy melodies. The magic of the 80s music can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the use of synthesizers, upbeat rhythms, and memorable lyrics.
Certainly, Witchfest has a little bit of everything for everyone. “The scavenger hunt is a fun, free game,” said Lucinda. “The witch displays are enchanting for their eyes to behold.” A deceptively tricky challenge to find different displays and themed decorations throughout the nooks and crannies of Gardner Village, the yearly scavenger hunt adds a dash of whimsy to exploring Gardner Village. This year, the finds included a witch in an outhouse, another stranded on a shark-surrounded raft and a third using her “eye-phone.”
Visitors of Gardner Village flock to Witchfest from all stages of life gaggles of teenagers, parents holding their children s hands and young couples out on dates. Disclosure This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended.
The magic of the 80s music can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the use of synthesizers, upbeat rhythms, and memorable lyrics. Synthesizers played a pivotal role in creating the magical sounds of the 80s. With advancements in technology, musicians had access to new electronic instruments that allowed them to experiment with different sounds and create captivating melodies.
Exploring Historic Gardner Village at the 19th Annual Witchfest
The recipe for a perfect Halloween calls for fried green tomatoes, a dash of alpaca kisses, a hundred spools of colorful yarn and an ounce or two of laughter to taste. The witches of the historic Gardner Village will vouch for it. Masters of brewing ooky-spooky fun, they fly in every year to Witchfest, one of Utah’s top Halloween celebrations. While this West Jordan shopping center remains popular all year long, Witchfest sparks with an irresistible charm. From Sept. 14 through the end of October, hundreds of costumed visitors from across the Salt Lake Valley came each day of the festival to shop, dine, cackle and play.
Every October, Gardner Village turns into a quaint Halloween town. (Courtesy of Gardner Village)
Witchfest events ranged from magic shows to weekly parades to nighttime parties. One would only need to take a simple stroll through Gardner Village to see it decoratively transformed into a Halloween-lover’s dream. Between dancing to music and diving between shops, visitors inevitably bumped into the stars of the celebration — the witches themselves. These witches put on photo-ops, dinner theatre shows and in-character breakfasts to bring the enchantment of Witchfest to life. Gardner Village’s Lucinda the Witch has attended or performed for Witchfest each year since it first started in 2000.
According to Gardner Village’s blog, Witchfest isn’t only a celebration of Halloween, but “a celebration of womanhood.” It’s “an excuse to trade those high heels for pointed toes” and “a time to drop the laundry basket and pick up a broom (for riding, of course!)” For many, witches represent female empowerment as powerful, magic women who embrace oddity and go against the grain. This is especially true to Lucinda’s personal interpretation of being a witch. “I don’t want people to associate Lucinda with a real person’s name,” she said. “Every woman has an alter ego, and ‘Lucinda’ is definitely an alter ego.” Speaking after witching-hours, she said, “I hope I can give you Lucinda’s perspective when I’m not Lucinda,” and laughed.
When it comes to performing, Lucinda said, “It’s fun, it’s exciting. The costumes are amazing, so they say.” But her favorite part? “Getting to meet the families,” she said. Visitors of Gardner Village flock to Witchfest from all stages of life — gaggles of teenagers, parents holding their children’s hands and young couples out on dates. “It’s intended for the whole family from the youngest child to our oldest witch, who is 382,” said Lucinda. “That’s how old one of our witches says they are!” When asked what Witchfest means to her, Lucinda’s answer was immediate. “Family traditions,” she said. “Because it’s just a ton of family traditions. We have families who have been coming for years and years and years and years, and it’s definitely magical.”
Pumpkins galore! (Courtesy of Gardner Village)
Certainly, Witchfest has a little bit of everything for everyone. “The scavenger hunt is a fun, free game,” said Lucinda. “The witch displays are enchanting for their eyes to behold.” A deceptively tricky challenge to find different displays and themed decorations throughout the nooks and crannies of Gardner Village, the yearly scavenger hunt adds a dash of whimsy to exploring Gardner Village. This year, the finds included a witch in an outhouse, another stranded on a shark-surrounded raft and a third using her “eye-phone.”
Gardner Village is a shopping center after all, and Lucinda calls the variety of stores “really fun.” The shopping center features a variety of small businesses that sell all kinds of items. Willow Hill Yarn Company offers knitting supplies and lessons while Story Book Nook sells children’s books and toys of all kinds. Find knick-knacks such as antique teacups, comics and jewelry at Aunt Elsie’s Trinkets and Treasures, or stop by the Utah Sports Collective to grab new fan gear for game day. The shop I love most at Gardner Village is a candy store, Chocolate Covered Wagon, which makes gourmet truffles, fudge and caramel apples. “My favorite caramel apple is the White Rapids Caramel Apple,” said Lucinda.
A whimsical coven of witches. (Courtesy of Gardner Village)
Aside from sweets, Lucinda recommends two other bites from Gardner Village. “I do love Naborhood Bakery’s Margherita pizza,” she said. “And of course they’ve got delicious pastries.” Naborhood is a small shop similar in feel to Paradise Bakery and Kneaders. “Fried green tomatoes are delicious from Archibald’s Restaurant,” said Lucinda. Archibald’s is a slightly more upscale sit-down restaurant seated in the belly of the flour mill located at the head of Gardner Village.
By way of the Trax Red Line, Gardner Village is located about 40 minutes away from the University of Utah with a stop directly across the street from the shopping center. Aside from Witchfest and year-round dining and shopping, Gardner Village offers several year-long activities including painting nights, escape rooms, a duck pond and an animal rescue petting zoo with sheep, ponies and alpacas. The village will also be decorated again this coming December for the holidays.
As for Lucinda’s ideal day spent at Gardner Village? “I would dig up worms near the pond, eating caramel apples from Chocolate Covered Wagon,” said Lucinda. “And then, of course, flying my broom.”
The use of synthesizers added a distinct futuristic element to the music, making it instantly recognizable and enchanting. The upbeat and energetic rhythms of the 80s music contributed to the magic of the era. It was a time when people sought escapism and a break from the realities of everyday life. The lively beats and infectious grooves provided a sense of joy and celebration, transporting listeners to a world of carefree fun and excitement. Another element that made the magic songs of the 80s so enchanting were the lyrics. Many songs of this era told stories of love, dreams, and adventure. The lyrics often conveyed a sense of optimism and hope, resonating with listeners and creating a magical connection. These songs became anthems for a generation, inspiring them to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams. The magic songs of the 80s continue to hold a special place in the hearts of many. They evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding people of a simpler time filled with youthful exuberance and endless possibilities. Even today, these songs are often played at parties, weddings, and gatherings, bringing people together and creating a sense of shared joy. In conclusion, the magic songs of the 80s represent a unique and unforgettable era in music history. The combination of synthesizers, upbeat rhythms, and memorable lyrics created an enchanting musical experience. Until today, these songs continue to be cherished and celebrated, reminding us of a magical time filled with music that will forever hold a special place in our hearts..
Reviews for "From Clubs to Festivals: How 80s Dance Music Changed the Nightlife"
1. John - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "Magic Song 80s". The songs were a far cry from the catchy and iconic hits of the 80s. The production quality was poor, and the album lacked the vibrant energy that characterized the music of that era. Overall, it felt like a weak attempt at recreating the magic of the 80s, and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking for a nostalgic music experience.
2. Sarah - 1 star - "Magic Song 80s" was a complete letdown. The selection of songs on this album was questionable at best, with most of them being obscure and forgettable tracks from the 80s. Moreover, the vocals were poorly executed, and it was evident that the artists lacked the talent to do justice to these iconic songs. Save yourself the disappointment and avoid this album.
3. Mark - 2 stars - As an avid fan of 80s music, I was excited to give "Magic Song 80s" a listen. However, I was left unimpressed by the lackluster renditions and uninspired performances. The artists on this album failed to capture the essence and charm of the original songs, leaving me longing for the authentic 80s sound. I would instead recommend seeking out the original recordings or other covers by artists who can do justice to these classic hits.
4. Emily - 1 star - "Magic Song 80s" was a complete waste of my time and money. The interpretations and arrangements of the 80s hits on this album were bland and lacked any originality. The life and energy of those iconic songs were completely lost in the process. I would strongly advise against listening to this album if you are looking for a genuine 80s music experience.