As many of you Atlanta residents & surrounding denizens know, Atlanta is a major hub for all sorts of entertainment-- from sports to musicals, conventions to music festivals-- there's always something happening in the ATL. Next week, bands and musicians such as Twenty One Pilots, The Killers, Grouplove, Daya, Deadmau5, and many more will make an appearance and perform at Atlanta's Piedmont Park on September 17th and 18th, 2016. It will be a very exciting time for concert-goers from all over the state, but for anyone new to attending music festivals, the experience can be both overwhelming and tiring. Below are 5 things I recommend for surviving a music festival, based on my past experiences. It can be easy to forget any of these items when you're so excited about seeing your favorite band play.
1. Sunscreen
Most music festivals typically take place between March and October, because the weather is warmer and the days longer. This also means a ton of sun exposure, especially since most music festivals take place in parks that are open and have minimal trees. Sunscreen is very important, regardless on how long you plan to stay out in the sun. A couple years ago, I attended Shaky Knees Music Festival at Atlanta's Central Park. I neglected to wear sunscreen before I departed for the show. I was going to see the group Best Coast, and their stage was positioned in an area of direct sunlight. My back was facing the sun during the entire performance, and only for an hour. When I got home, my shoulders and the part of my back exposed to the sun was as red as a lobster. On top of that, I felt ill from being in the sun without sunscreen for so long. Lesson learned--always wear sunscreen to music festivals. You might make your weekend uncomfortable by getting burned.
2. Portable Phone Charger
I can't stress enough how important this is to have with you. I have been to show after show, most of the time solo (I have an interesting taste in music different from my friends, so going solo is pretty normal for me), and not having a phone with a charged battery can cause an array of problems. Sure, people lived without them back in the days of Woodstock, but hey, having a working device to contact someone is important, especially if you are alone. Most concert-goers take photos, shoot videos, and tweet or Instagram in between shows which quickly drains a battery. Charging in between shows or whilst taking a lunch or dinner break in between sets will help keep that battery juiced for the duration of the festival. Having a charged phone will allow you to request an Uber or a Lyft, or call a friend to pick you up from the show.
3. Reusable Water Bottle
Music festivals are very expensive to attend. I have been charged as much as $6 for a 20oz bottle of water. That's ridiculous! Most music festivals nowadays provide free water at water stations scattered across the festival grounds to keep their guests hydrated, since it would otherwise be a liability if they required you to purchase water. A reusable water bottle will be very handy because it will help keep you hydrated in the summer heat. You do not want to pass out in the middle of the mosh pit!
4. Comfortable Shoes
When I first started attending music festivals, I thought flip flops were the best things to wear the whole weekend considering the hot weather. I was wrong. When I finally came to my senses, I realized tennis shoes would be so much better for a number of reasons. 1.) They have more support and your feet are less likely to hurt after a long day of standing. 2.) Your feet won't hurt nearly as bad if you get stepped on whilst in the middle of the mosh pit. However, if you insist on wearing open-toed shoes, Chacos are a great option because they provide excellent support compared to those dollar store flip flops.
5. A Plan (or two) for Transportation
Atlanta locals frequently take MARTA to get to different shows and events in the Atlanta area. However, not every music festival has a subway or bus station close to their venues. Having a couple plans in place on how you intend to get home after the festival is crucial. If your phone is charged, call a Lyft or an Uber. However, there are times when cell reception may not be strong at a festival, so look into nearby parking in case you need to drive. If you plan on drinking at the music festival, make a plan to have a friend or family member pick you up. Know how you are getting home, and make sure you are safe in doing so.
To my fellow readers, I wish you a happy weekend at Music Midtown! I will be there, jamming to The Killers, right along the barricade separating the stage and the mosh pit (or so I hope to be). Stay safe and rock on!
