Music Festival Do's and Don'ts
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✌️🏽Made in America Festival was such a dope experience! I definitely learned some major 🔑s to having the best time ever at a music festival. I compiled a list below of music festival do's and don'ts!
Do’s
Pregame
We all know that buying drinks at a music festivals can be pricey. The best solution for that is to pregame before you get there. Of course the buzz won't last you the entire festival, but at least it cuts down the amount of drinks you’ll purchase.
Wear comfortable shoes
There is A LOT of walking and standing at music festivals. The last thing you need is an additional reason (like uncomfortable shoes) to cause your feet to hurt.
Check the festival site for the list of things you can and cannot bring/do
It is important to know what you can and cannot bring/do prior to arrival. Most music festivals will have a list on their site that lets you know what is acceptable and what isn’t. Be sure to check it before you head to the music festival.
Make sure you know performance times prior to arrival
The best way to optimize your time is to be aware of the itinerary for the day.
Eat and use the bathroom before you get to the festival
Coming from a monetary standpoint, it's a good idea to eat before you get to the festival. We all know that prices are increased there. Also the only bathroom options are usually port-a-potties so it's best to use the restroom before you get there.
Be festive
One of the most fun aspects of going to a music festival is dressing up. Get creative! Do something fun with your hair, put pieces together that you normally wouldn't wear, but has always been in the back of your mind as something you would love to try. Have fun with it!
If it's a multiple day festival, see how the security check point is
The first day is your "trial and error" day so you want to be on your Ps and Qs. At this point, you have checked the website and you know what you are allowed to do/bring. Depending on how strict the checkpoint is when you pass through, that will help you determine what you can and cannot get away with for the rest of the days of the music festival. Disclaimer: be sure whatever it is you're trying to sneak in won't upset you if it gets confiscated. P.S. you didn't hear this from me!
Be early to get a good spot
The early bird gets the worm. This couldn't be truer at a music festival. Unlike a concert where you pay for the best seat, music festivals you actually have to arrive to the stage before everyone else. The earlier you can get to the stage before a performance, especially if it's a popular artist, the better.
Stay aware
You're there to have fun but safety is ALWAYS a priority. Always be mindful of your surroundings.
Have a dam good time!
You didn't pay all that money not to enjoy yourself. Things might not go as planned but let it roll off of your shoulders and be grateful that you get to experience something that many others don't have the opportunity to.
Don’ts
Don't forget to stay hydrated
Make sure you're drinking plenty of water throughout the day. It's very hot and most of the time you're standing out in the sun. Most music festivals will allow you to bring in a sealed bottle of water (but be sure to check the music festival site to make sure it's allowed). Alcohol + Sun + Dehydration= a disaster or even Sun + Dehydration= a disaster. Don't be the one they're carrying out on a stretcher! Water, water, WATER! I can't say it enough.
Don't go against the crowd
If you're at a performance that they're jumping around/mosh pitting, your best bet is to follow suit. Standing still is the quickest way to get pushed around/trampled. You should leave the area if you're not comfortable in that type of environment. Like Ludacris would say "Move b*tch, get out the way!"
Don't forget to experience all the festival has to offer
Music is the main attraction but there's so much more to experience at music festivals. From food to activities, there's plenty to see and do! I was actually able to ride a Ferris wheel for the first time!
Don't start nothing, there won't be nothing
Leave all the drama at the door. You came to have a good time.
Don't hesitate to make new friends
People come from all over the nation to attend music festivals. Clearly everyone attending has something in common since they're all there. Meeting new people can definitely enhance the experience.
Don't forget a bandanna
Bandannas aren't mandatory but it is a nice little addition. It gets very dusty due to the fact that there's a lot of movement on the grass/dirt. It’s a good accessory to cover your face with but it's also good to use to wipe your sweat or wear as a headband to catch your sweat.
Don't be pushy when trying to get through a crowd
What I found to work best while moving through the crowd is to be friendly and kind. Say excuse me as you're passing through and if you accidentally nudge someone say you're sorry. I found that, for me personally, when people were walking through and pushed me it was more frustrating than if they apologized to me or were friendly as they were walking through. I didn't mind them passing through as much. I used this method for at least two of the performance I wanted to see and it worked like a charm in getting me closer to the front of the stage.
Don't wear nice shoes or heels
You're better off wearing shoes you don't care about. A lot of times music festivals are on dirt/grass. Also, depending on who is performing you can be stepped on. There is nothing worse than wearing a fresh pair of kicks and within minutes they’re ruined. Girls, just leave the heels at home!
Don't bring a huge bag
A big bag is a sure way to get searched a little longer at the security checkpoint. Not only that but a large bag is going to get in the way when you're in crowds.
Don't be a party pooper!
Try new things and step outside of your comfort zone!
