When it comes to reality television, Vanderpump Rules has managed to reach ultimate hype and engagement heights on social media. The cast is young, attractive and busy with various projects in the entertainment sphere, not to mention leading drama-filled social lives that make for compelling TV. For James Kennedy social events and work go hand in hand, as the DJ has built a following for his uplifting party jams. And this past weekend he played the biggest event of his career.

“There’s no other vibe like Neon Carnival,” Kennedy shares with Los Angeles. “Getting asked to DJ the event for the 2024 edition was an absolute dream come true. This used to be a guest list I couldn’t even get on, so when I got invited to attend years later, I always had goosebumps on the way to the party. It’s the most legendary party in America, and it was magical playing on the 13th of April for the festival’s 13th year running.”

Here, Kennedy provides an exclusive look at some of his favorite moments from the weekend.

I arrived in Palm Springs on Saturday afternoon after traveling from Dallas from a gig I played the night before – the excitement had very much kicked in at this point!

I went straight to the Neon Carnival site so I could soak in the vibes for a few hours before I had to start prepping for my set.

The first person I bumped into backstage was Emma Roberts! She congratulated me on playing Neon Carnival and we took lots of pictures together.

As it got dark, I couldn’t pass up the chance to grab a picture with Jonathan Cheban AKA ‘FOODGOD!’

Managed to get a quick hang in with legendary nightlife figure and Neon Carnival founder Brent Bolthouse and his fiancée before my set.

After hours of anticipation, it was finally time for me to headline the Neon Carnival. I got this customized embroidered jacket made especially to commemorate my biggest gig so far.

It still feels so surreal to see my face under the Neon Carnival stage sign!! Couldn’t even see how far back the crowd went, there were so many people who turned up to watch me perform.

We headed on over to Coachella on Sunday to get a picture in front of the legendary ferris wheel.

I got to spend some time with my friend [and Vanderpump Rules co-star] Ariana Madix and her boyfriend Daniel on Sunday too. Til next year!