Music festivals--a place where all the weirdos come out to shine, a place where love for music and love for people is abundant, a place that opens your mind. I haven't been to as many as I would like to, but its on my bucket list. Before I die, I will go to every music festival within my musical taste. There are so many different types of festivals, all with versatile genres and I encourage everyone to go to at least one.
1. You will feel the love from everyone around you.
When I went to Bonnaroo, the slogan for the festival was "Radiate Positivity." The how-to-guide said stuff like "bring a good attitude!" "leave behind your negativity" I thought that was a little cliché at first, but when I got there, everyone was so kind and you could literally feel the positive atmosphere. As soon as you walk onto the grounds, people are shouting for joy and talking to each other and giving people high fives.
2. It is a great way to find new music.
Almost all of my favorite bands I have seen at a music festival. I didn't like a few of them until I saw their performance and their passion for music. Sometimes, it's so hot all you want to do is sit under a tent and then you realize that you love who ever is playing. There are SO many concerts you can attend, so its good to look into the artists before you show up to the festival, otherwise, its easy to get overwhelmed by the options.
3. You can be whoever you want at a music festival.
There are so many different people at festivals. You have your "festival girls," decked out in glitter, minimalist clothing and fairy wings; you have your ravers, who are clothed in anything neon, and furry; you have people who are just chilling trying to watch some concerts; you have festival fashionistas, who take every opportunity to wear their coolest outfits that they have saved for this festival specifically (me); you have the hippies, walking around topless and wearing the flowiest clothes and have probably been to countless other festivals; and any other "type" of person you could imagine. Nobody cares if you look crazy, they only care if you're having a good time! So put on that smile, and have a good time. Contribute to the positivity!
4. Food trucks have some of the best food.
Food is a little pricey at festivals, but some of the best food I have ever had has come from a food truck at a festival. There are foods I have never heard of, but it was the most delicious thing ever. The sizes are massive, so honestly, you could eat one or two meals a day and be set. The best crab cakes I have ever had came from a truck from Virginia, but I have no idea what the name of the truck is called :(
5. The art is BEAUTIFUL.
The picture above is a print that I bought at my most recent festival, Hangoutfest. The name is hilarious, but is a little inappropriate. Most music festivals are also art festivals, as well. I have gotten some of my favorite pieces of decoration from festivals, and every time I go to a new one, I get another piece of art. They are always super unique and I fall completely in love with every booth. You can get cool clothes for your next festival, you can get handmade jewelry, shoes, blankets, you name it. Anything that could be handmade, is.
Music festivals are the most beautiful, fun, fantastic party that you could go to. I can't wait for my next one. If you have never been to a music festival before, i strongly encourage you go. Whether you like hard rock, EDM, bluegrass, indie, or Christian music, there's a festival for you. So broaden your horizons and go check one out!
