Very few things in life match the excitement of summer festival season! There are so many music festivals all over the world, each catering to a specific genre or musical aesthetic. They truly provide the best value to see some of your favourite artists and discover so many new ones. Plus, from the multiple stages, to the bold fashion, to the delicious food, you’re busy from the moment you step onto the festival grounds.
I, like everyone else, have been living vicariously through every influencer’s Instagram posts from Coachella and, honestly, the FOMO is real. I’m doing everything in my power to make it out to Osheaga in Montreal this August (RIP WayHome).
As a seasoned live music attendee, I wanted to pass along some tips to make your first (or second, or third, or fourth!) music festival experience the best it can be!
1. STAY HYDRATED!
This tip above everything else – drink tons of water. Spending hours in the sun takes a toll on your body without you realizing it. Most festivals let you bring in an empty water bottle that you can re-fill once you’re inside. You can also purchase a hydration pack for under $20 to insert into your backpack – this lets you maintain style and cut down on treks to the water stations.
2. Know where to find your friends.
Whether you’re splitting up to get drinks or catch different sets, the buddy system is more important than ever at a packed festival. Cell service is not always the most reliable, so make sure to choose a super specific meet-up time and spot – I’m talking a certain booth or food truck, not a sign that might move or an equally-crowded stage.
3. Don’t be afraid to rock out solo!
This is another big one for me, as someone who constantly goes to shows solo. There are actually several benefits, like being 100% on your own schedule, shamelessly trying all the food options and getting so close to the stage you can feel the artists’ sweat. No one will judge you – everyone will be busy having fun, as you should be too! If you would feel more comfortable having a buddy once you get to the festival, there are plenty of meet-ups organized on forums like Reddit for fellow solo fest-goers.
4. Don’t wear your favourite shoes.
I cringe a little every time I see people’s nice white shoes get dragged through the mud and dirt. (Don’t even get me started on the heels!) A staple pair of black Converse or Vans are both comfortable and cute, and you will be able to overlook any stubborn stains that can’t be washed off.
A related tip: bandanas are useful for more than just a fashion statement. They’re great for wearing over your face to block out all that dust and dirt in the air, especially as the day goes on.
5. Know when to take a break.
Combining the above tips, be careful to not overdo yourself, especially your first time around. Taking a break to sit down and retreat from all the running around lets you recharge (yourself and your phone) and get ready to continue living your best life. It also gives you a chance to explore what else the festival has to offer, such as photo spots and activations (which usually means free giveaways!).
Are you planning on attending any festivals this summer? Let me know in the comments below! Happy to provide recommendations on festivals and must-see artists based on your music tastes – might already have some of this content in the works too. 🙂
Happy festival-ing xx
