21 Years at Ubiquitopia: How did that happen?

We are frequently asked how this particular form of organized chaos came into being. Truthfully, we pose the same question to ourselves with equal regularity.

Many years ago, in 2002, a group of colleagues, accompanied by several Norwegian acquaintances, received an invitation to the Soundquilt music festival in Gore, Virginia. We arrived with no preconceived expectations. We pitched our tents in a field beneath a solitary tree and found ourselves thoroughly delighted by both the music and the company. Fortune placed us adjacent to the band Uniquitone, with whom we established an immediate rapport.

Lacking any notable musical talent of our own, we applied ourselves to the pursuits in which we possessed genuine competence: preparing food, consuming beverages, and distributing both with enthusiasm. Uniquitone, it transpired, shared a similar appreciation for these activities. Extended conversations around the fire ensued late into successive nights.

The following year we elevated our contribution by roasting a pig, liberally coated in a hot-and-sweet mustard of exceptional quality (Bone Suckin’—still unsurpassed), and cooking it over an open fire within the confines of an old foldable gate. The result proved unexpectedly popular; we succeeded in feeding a substantial portion of the festival attendees.

At some indeterminate hour—most probably four o’clock on a Saturday morning—a conversation arose concerning the possibility of establishing our own festival. Uniquitone would supply the music; the as-yet-unnamed Nøff Nøff BBQ would supply the sustenance. The proposition appeared sound. We formalized the agreement with a ceremonial toast of Norwegian aquavit—specifically Linje Aquavit. Our selection of Aquavit has since improved.

As reliably as day follows night, the subsequent year witnessed the inaugural Ubiquitopia 1. Attendance consisted primarily of the band, ourselves, and a modest scattering of friends. Female representation was conspicuously limited; few partners elected to join the gathering. Nevertheless, the event qualified as a success. Music flowed continuously, food was abundant, and beverages were never in short supply. The experience proved sufficiently agreeable that we resolved to attempt it again the following year as Ubiquitopia 2.

Twenty-one years later, we continue to assemble annually. The gathering has expanded well beyond the original band and kitchen contingent to include friends from widely varied backgrounds. I make a point of tracking the number of plates served each year; the recorded maximum stands at approximately four hundred. I should add, for the sake of accuracy and equity, that female presence is no longer scarce. We now refer to these participants, with appropriate respect, as wives.