Ever since I became aware of what raves are, I've heard negative stereotypes about them. Just to list a few: People that like Electronic Dance Music do not have good taste in music, wearing rave outfits makes you trashy, ravers wear stupid bracelets, raves are only fun when you do drugs.
People are told time and time again to not judge a book by its cover, yet it's done all the time. I feel this to be especially true when it comes to outsiders looking in on Ravers. The best way I know how to describe raves, as a whole, is simply to say it's a culture. There is so much more to raves than just jumping around, listening to music.
First off, ravers come from all over the world. Sure, language could possibly be a barrier, but in the end, everyone has at least one thing in common- PLUR. PLUR stands for Peace, Love, Unity and Respect. Raves are judgement free zones, and you can share experiences with complete strangers, yet feel so connected with them. On top of meeting new people, "Rave Families" just form over time, and it's truly a beautiful thing. Rave Families can range from being your best friends that you grew up with/hang out with all the time or they can be the people you see over and over again at raves, and once you're together you pick up right where you left off at the last rave.
On to the next stereotype: The outfits. Yes, people do wear clothes that are revealing, but some people don't realize that the outfit is a costume. It is apart of the culture. Also, it's not required to wear revealing clothing. Plain, everyday clothes are just as fine. Or even clothes that would be considered Halloween wear. It really doesn't matter what you wear. As I've stated before, raves are judgement free zones. Raves are one of the few places where people can be themselves and express themselves freely. This is why people dress up in crazy outfits.
Furthermore, the "stupid bracelets" are not stupid bracelets. They are actually called "Kandi" and there is meaning behind them; they have become a tradition for ravers. To put it simply, people from all over the world design their Kandi with eccentric beads and colors and phrases and then exchange them at the raves. Sometimes your trade Kandi when meet someone new or just because you like each other's work. If you think about it, Kandi is basically a time marker. When you go and look back at your collection, you'll remember everything from which rave you were at, who gave you the Kandi, to what song was playing when y'all exchanged. It's truly a great way to connect with people.
Believe it or not, drugs do not have to determine what your rave experience will be like. It depends more on what your attitude is like while you're there and the people you surround yourself with. (This is where Rave Families come into play!)
If you're going to take anything from this article, this is what you should take: Don't knock it until you try it. If you're not ready for a full on rave yet, at least give EDM a chance. It may change your life.
P.S. Thank you to my friends for broadening my horizons and introducing me to the culture of Raves and Festivals.
