Now that it's finally summer, the time for music festivals is in full swing! Whether it's Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, CMA Fest, a local music festival or another concert, the best thing a person can do is be prepared. After all, who doesn't want to make the most of their day and be able to enjoy all the wonderful live music? These before, during and after tips, tricks and essentials will help you have the best time!
Before:
1. Be Sure To Drink Plenty Of Water.
Since you'll be spending all day in the hot sun, this is crucial especially if you're planning to drink alcohol as well. From personal experience, I have experienced the effects of dehydration while at a concert which caused me to not enjoy the experience as much.
2. Plan Ahead Of Time.
Some music festivals will have multiple stages and performances happening at the same time. I have found that planning out which performers I really want to see and when I have time to eat in between, has allowed me to have the best time.
Pro tip: Some music festivals even have their own app for the performance times and festival details, that you can download to your smartphone.
3. Figure Out The Best Way To Pay At The Venue.
I have found that some music festivals have started going cashless. This means that you can either put money from a credit or debit card or put cash into your festival account. There were stations to do this at the concerts I went to, but it is very easy to do it online as well. This way, you're prepared and don't have to wait in line while at the venue.
4. Consider Weather Appropriate Clothing.
Most likely, it will be hot during the day but what will the weather be like at night? This is a factor to consider when planning on what to wear and if you want to bring additional clothes to keep warm later in the day.
5. Transportation.
Have a safe ride planned ahead of time, especially if you will be consuming alcohol. You don't want to be concerned about how you will get home, when you should be enjoying the music.
6. Don't Forget To Eat.
If you're at the festival all day, it is extremely important that you eat something while you're there. Many festivals hire vendors that sell all different types of food. Another option is, if it's possible, to leave the festival venue and go somewhere nearby to eat. Bringing snacks into the venue, if permitted, is another great option.
During:
7. Wear Sunscreen.
And don't forget to reapply it! If you're anything like me, then you can't be outside for very long without seeing the affects of the sun on your skin. If your music festival lasts longer than a day, you wouldn't want to get burnt on the first day and not be able to enjoy the other days of the festival.
8. Don't Spend Too Much Time On Your Phone.
I know it can be tempting to continue updating social media while at a concert or festival, but you wouldn't want this to get in the way of enjoying your experience. There's plenty of time to update social media after the fact, but only a single chance to get to experience the performance live.
9. Wear Comfortable Old Shoes.
Nobody wants blisters or to be concerned that their shoes will get messed up from mud, rain or spilled beer.
10. Watch Your Alcohol Consumption:
If you're of legal drinking age, the last thing you want to do is spend a lot of money to go to the music festival, then drink so much that you don't even remember it! Moderation is key.
11. Don't Forget To Have Fun.
I know I've given you a lot to think about, but don't forget why you're at this music festival!
After:
12. Share Your Experience On Social Media.
If you don't post a picture from the concert, did you really go?
I hope this guide helps you have the very best time at any music festival you attend this summer!
