When I ask people if they have been to a music festival, the people who have immediately go in depth about their experience, explaining the “magical journey” they endured with their 5 best friends. On the opposite spectrum, people who have not attended a music festival (yet) conjure some of these outlandish, misconceived ideas, including:
“Isn’t everyone who goes to a music festival on drugs/alcohol?”
This is one of the most popular responses I hear, and I’m here to tell you it’s also one of the most inaccurate. Of course, there are some people who enjoy downing 18 beers or taking a trip through Alice’s Wonderland, but by no means is everyone under the influence. In fact, many people choose to spend the entire festival being sober- and have an amazing time.
“I HATE EDM (electric dance music), it’s not even real music.”
Let me start by saying that before I went to my first festival, I absolutely hated EDM too; nevertheless, after seeing an EDM show for myself, for a lack of a better term, it blew my mind, because there is nothing else quite like it. Furthermore, most festivals AREN’T just EDM, offering a variety of music, including, country, indie, folk, rap, reggae, funk, rock..the list goes on.
"How can you even afford to go to those?"
It's really not that hard to budget your money wisely. It depends on how far you are traveling and the type of tickets you want- VIP gets special amenities, but general admission is WAY cheaper. It varies from festi to festi, and how much you spend on extra things, (merchandise, other random, unneeded things) is your own decision.
“I’ve been to a concert, I didn’t like the sweaty, squishy mosh-pits in the crowd.”
This is hands down one of the most significant differences between music festivals and your average concert. Unless you are at a music festival predominately containing rappers, mosh-pits are practically nonexistent. Most of the time there is tons of room around you to have a good view of the stage, dance, (and breath)- everyone is really considerate of one another.
“I don’t know any of the artists performing.”
Looking at a lineup and only knowing a couple of performers out of over 100 is one of the best parts. There is nowhere else you will find the variety of talented performers that are seen at a music festival. It will broaden your range and taste in music and add 18 new favorite artists to your list.
“I wouldn’t like a camping festival, don’t you get super dirty and gross?”
My favorite festivals are those which include 3-4 days of camping; the bond you form with your old friends, and also new friends, is unreal- it’s like gaining new best friends all over the world! Showers usually consist of baby wipes and hand sanitizer, so yes, everyone ends up smelling a little funky by the end of the weekend, but it's all a part of the experience! Also, a lot of festivals aren’t camping and can be from 1 to 5 days long- it’s really all about your preference.
“I have nothing to wear to a festival.”
If this is the only thought stopping you from attending a festival, you are in luck! Everyone wears whatever they want, there is no dress code and I promise, you won’t be judged by anyone. If you want to wear the bare minimum (or none at all), a crazy Halloween costume, flowers on your head, a cute dress, or your plain, everyday t-shirt and jeans, DO IT!
“I cannot dance.”
Fear not my rhythm lacking friend, a lot of people cannot dance! Some festival goers actually have great dancing skills, but most people just let the music move them. You can shuffle, head-bang, sway side-to-side, nod your head, flail your arms around in the air; it doesn’t really matter, because everyone is there to enjoy the music, not judge your dancing skills.
“I don’t think I would fit in with 'ravers.'”
How would you know if you haven’t gone? I’m not even exaggerating when I say this, festivals attract some of the coolest, most unique, and free-spirited individuals I have ever met. Unlike anywhere else, people will randomly walk up to you and start a conversation or compliment you on your outfit. If you are lost, they include you in their group and make sure you find your friends later in the night. They hold the nasty Porta-Potty doors open for you, they fan the back of your neck or share their water when it’s too hot, they trade bracelets and give high-fives and tell you they hope you have an amazing weekend… And you’re telling me these aren’t your kind of people?
