As a personal survivor of 3 Chilifests, and having sustained minimal casualties, I would like to impart some helpful knowledge that I have learned through my observations in the grand ol' town of Snook, TX.
1. Do NOT wear your favorite cowboy boots. Or favorite anything for that matter. They will be covered in mud, possibly rain, adult bevs, and chili (if you're one of the lucky few to actually find the chili.)
2. Pick a meeting place with all of your friends in case you get separated. Phone service is hopeless. I don't even know if Snook has a cell tower.
3. Invest in a LifeProof case for your phone. Trust me.
4. Charge your phone and put it on airplane mode so it doesn't waste battery searching for a connection. You will wish you would have followed this tip when you find yourself wandering around hopelessly looking for your friends with no one to keep you company but thousands of strangers and your dead phone.
5. You will be hard-pressed to find sustenance, but luckily there are a few groups that will be serving food for all you hungry girls out there. Though you might be reluctant at first, if you come across some frito pie, just say yes. You won't regret it.
6. Check the weather and plan accordingly. Ladies, wear waterproof mascara and don't spend too much time styling your hair. Unless you were blessed with beautiful mermaid locks, the chances of your hair looking presentable are slim to none. Just embrace the dirty hippy look.
7. Seniors: I know we all dread taking off our precious rings of gold, so if it fits, move your aggie ring to your middle finger to make it less likely to slip off. Or just leave it at home if you don't trust yourself.
8. The closer you get to the stage, the closer you are to the splash zone. Mentally prepare for a beer shower. On a positive note, if you forgot to take a real shower, find comfort in the fact that you might be drenched in Keystone anyway.
Side note: Chilifest is a party with a purpose that has donated over $2,000,000 to multiple charities. Know that the money spent on concert tickets is supporting a worthy cause. For more information visit Chilifest.org