If you’ve ever entered a Fandiem campaign thinking, “There’s no way I’ll actually win,” you’re not alone. That’s exactly how Shana felt when she donated for a chance to see Dave Matthews in Cancún. Like so many fans, Dave’s music had been part of her life for years, tied to family, memories, and moments that stick with you forever.

She never imagined it would lead to meeting him face to face.

Entering the Sweepstakes: “Why not?”

Shana didn’t enter expecting anything in return. She entered because Dave’s music meant something to her, and because the campaign supported a good cause.

“My dad and brothers and I always listened to Dave together growing up. I don’t follow many famous people, but I’ve loved him my whole life. When Fandiem advertised this opportunity, I felt called to donate. It was a good cause, and I figured there was no way I’d win. Still, I thought, why not?”

When she found out she won, it didn’t feel real at first.

“I was like, is this real? But then I was over the moon. I couldn’t wait to surprise my husband. I just felt incredibly blessed.”

The Trip Becomes Real

Once the flights were booked, it started to sink in. This was actually happening.

“From the start, Fandiem was easy to work with. They flew us out of our small town so we didn’t have to drive two hours, which was amazing. When we got to the airport, there were other Dave fans with signs and great energy. It already felt special.”

For anyone who has ever traveled for a Dave show, you know the feeling. There’s this instant connection with the people around you. You’re all there for the same reason.

Arriving at Moon Palace took it to another level.

“It was our first all-inclusive resort, and it was beautiful. There was a dedicated check-in area for Dave and Tim attendees, and everyone was so welcoming. One fan even bought us drinks when we didn’t have cash to tip yet. Dave people are the best people.”

More Than a Festival. A Community

One of the things that makes Dave & Tim Riviera Maya so unique is the community. It is not just a concert. It is a gathering of fans who genuinely care about the music and each other.

“Getting into the festival grounds was easy, and we had great standing room near the stage. Everyone started chatting and sharing stories. When people found out we were sweepstakes winners, they were genuinely happy for us. We even exchanged information and plan to stay in touch.”

Even as longtime fans, moments like that still surprise you.

“I’ve been to many concerts and festivals to see Dave, but never experienced community like that. Being part of it was incredibly special.”

Finally Meeting Dave

Then came the moment every fan dreams about.

“Fandiem connected me with the backstage manager, and he told me to relax because I was so nervous. He said, ‘Dave’s really cool, just relax.’ I tried, but I couldn’t believe it was happening.”

When Dave walked in, he was exactly who fans hope he is.

“He was so kind and friendly. We shook hands and talked for a while. It felt very relaxed.”

Shana brought her Some Devil record, an album that carried deep personal meaning. Dave signed it, along with a setlist, and even added a small drawing.

She also gave him a gift.

“We gave him a silly shirt that says ‘Safety Third’ with Chattanooga underneath. I also gave him a letter to thank him and tell him what his music has meant to me.”

They talked about music, life, and even joked about AI.

“When we took the photo, he insisted I stand in the middle. My husband joked it would prove it wasn’t AI, and Dave started laughing. It was just a genuine conversation. He made it feel comfortable and real.”

A Full Circle Moment

The shows themselves were everything you would expect and more.

“The music was incredible. Nathaniel Rateliff was fantastic, and Tim Reynolds is just phenomenal on guitar.”

Then something happened on the final night that made the experience even more meaningful.

“At the very end of the last show, he played ‘Some Devil.’ That’s the album I listened to with my dad before he passed, and the one I had him sign. Maybe it was already planned, but in my heart it felt personal. I’m just so grateful it happened.”

Anyone who has ever heard a Dave song at the exact right moment knows that feeling. It stays with you.

Memories That Will Last Forever

Meeting Dave was the moment that brought everything together.

“Standing there talking with him felt surreal. I never imagined something like this could happen to me, but it did. It was the best experience ever, and I will never forget it.”

Shana entered to support a cause and honor an artist who meant something to her. She left with new friends, unforgettable memories, and a story that still doesn’t feel real.

That is the magic of these moments.

See Shana's full experience HERE