It's finally that time of year -- The sun's blazing, People are carefree, and most importantly, Vans Warped Tour has begun! The traveling music festival features over 50 bands, merchandise tents, and several amazing causes. Hundreds of people attend each year, making it one of the most popular events of the summer! That being said, newcomers can feel a bit anxious or confused as the what occurs at Warped. Well here are some tips and tricks to help you survive Warped Tour 2016.
First off, Warped Tour is an all ages event, meaning there is no need to worry if you are old enough to attend! The event even offers a free complementary ticket to the parent of a minor going to the show. It is an all day festival, beginning at 11 a.m. and ending around 9 p.m., depending on the venue. Finally, the event partners up with amazing organizations, such as Music Saves Lives and Feed Our Children Now. This gives the tour goers some pretty cool opportunities as well. If you're one of the lucky 100 fans to donate blood, you get to tour backstage, and if you donate to Feed our children now, you get to jump the line.
As a person who has attended Vans Warped Tour for the past four years, it is important to dress light and to keep yourself hydrated. There are several water refill stations spread throughout the venue provided by Cool Gear so make sure to keep those empty water bottles! It is also important to know what you can and can NOT bring to an event like this. Luckily, the event staff have provided a list:
What You Can Bring
1. Small, lightweight backpack (like a draw string bag)
2. Sunscreen
3. Small, homemade snack
4. ONE sealed bottle of water
5. Camera
6. Sharpies/ Pens (perfect for getting autographs and writing set times)
7. Cell phone
8. Comfortable shoes
9. Hat
What You Can NOT Bring
1. Chains (i.e. wallet chains)
2. Alcohol
3. Recording devices
4. Weapons (firearms, knives, etc.)
5. Any illegal substance
Throughout the day, band will hold signings and sponsors will be giving out free merch! So be on the lookout for your favorite bands tent and non-profit organizations giving out freebies. The opportunities are seemingly endless. The set times will be displayed on a giant inflatable vans warped tour wall, which is usually located by the main tent vans tent. Make sure to get there early and check it out!
The event staff, sponsors, and the band playing are all concerned about the safety of the concert goers. That being said, there are always paramedics on site and they can be found at the Medic station tent. So keep your eye out for a big first aid flag when you're in need. Finally, be smart when buying your tickets and attending the show in general. Vans Warped Tour does NOT sell backstage passes, VIP wristbands, or any other type of guest passes, so when you see that guy selling them in the parking lot, refuse them! Certain sets at the show can get pretty rowdy, so know your limits. If the crowd gets to be too rough, back up and enjoy the show SAFELY!
Find your states Warped Tour Stop and tickets at the official Vans Warped Tour site!
