Music festivals offer a unique experience, creating a one-stop shop concert extravaganza. From EDM to country music, all genres host a staple festival featuring the best artists in their field. Every year, some of the most popular must-see music festivals include Lollapalooza, Coachella, EDC (Electric Daisy Carnival), UMF (Ultra Music Festival), and Tomorrowland. No matter the type of festival you sign up for, use these tips for surviving your first music festival.
What To Pack
Most festivals span numerous hours, with the bulk of the festivities occurring when the sun sits sky high. Packing sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles ensures you stay safe in the sun and avoid overheating or dehydration. Other essentials to secure in your bag include a light jacket for cooler evenings, a first-aid kit, a portable phone charger, and some wet wipes.
What To Wear
Aside from the actual performances and festivities, a major part of music festivals is their fashion aesthetic. There are numerous ways to dress for a music festival, but most fits tend to match a certain style. Between the summer heat, geographic location, and concert style, many festival-goers wear items like shorts, crop tops, bodysuits, and flowy fabrics to create practical and stylish looks. Festivals allow you to explore creative and dramatic expressions of fashion and makeup. Allowing yourself to play around with looks makes the festivities more enjoyable and is one of the best parts of festival-going.
How To Stay Safe
Festivals attract large crowds and often pack people tightly during concerts. For many people, the mass gatherings paired with loud sounds and flashing lights cause overstimulation. Taking moments away from the crowds allows you to take a proper breather, recenter, and calm down.
On top of creating an overstimulating atmosphere, the grande population of festival-goers also makes it easier for people to lose their friends and be victims of item theft. Designating a meet-up place and keeping your phones on ensures you and your friends stick together and manage the crowds safely. Wearing bags that secure tightly closed or strap on in a way that allows you to keep tabs on your items further ensures your safety and minimizes risks of theft.
How To Optimize Your Time
Most music festivals feature a range of artists and activities to explore. Managing your festival schedule optimizes your time and ensures you get the most from your ticket. Many festival schedules go live before the event, allowing you to prep and plan your day accordingly. Pick out the performances you want to prioritize, set aside time for snack breaks, and familiarize yourself with the map to create the ultimate festival experience.
Everyone should attend at least one festival within their lifetime. Each is different, from food fests to renaissance fairs, offering unique opportunities to explore. Music festivals reign as the top festival experience and continue to attract countless people each year. With these four survival tips, you can join the trend and enjoy your first music festival to its fullest.