Concert season is right around the corner, but there are some things you should know before you jump in. Whether you're a pro at music festivals and concerts, or you have never gone to one before, there are always things that we tend to overlook.
Do get there early. Whether you have tickets for seats or if it is general admission, either way you want to arrive early. Parking will not be easy and depending on the location of the concert traffic may be backed up. To avoid worrying about these hold-ups, arrive with plenty of time to spare.
Don't bring a large sign. We all know that person who makes a sign for every concert that the band members most likely do not even read. They hold this sign up over their heads during the show and most of the time it's a big pain to everyone next to and behind them. Don't be this person. Even if the band can read your sign, nothing will really come of it. Save everyone around you the hassle, and leave your sign at home. In this technological age, if you want to send a message to a band member, you can do it via Twitter.
Do dress appropriately for the weather/venue. If you are at an outdoor amphitheater in the middle of August, dress in a light shirt and shorts or a skirt. You do not want to be too hot, especially if the concert involves standing in large crowds. If you have long hair, you may even want to put it up in a ponytail. For an indoor venue, it will still be crowded, but you could bring a light jacket in case the air conditioning is cranked up.
Don't wear uncomfortable shoes. Whether you're standing for most of the concert or just have a long walk from the car to the venue, you do not want to be wearing shoes that aren't good to be wearing when you're on your feet for a long period of time. At the concert, you do not want to be thinking about how much your feet hurt. Close-toed shoes are best for crowds, because if your feet get stepped, on your toes will be protected.
Do drink lots of water. The last thing you want is to pass out and have to be carried out when you're trying to enjoy the band. Make sure you have something to eat before you leave and drink a full bottle of water. If you are allowed to bring in water to the venue, then bring a bottle with you as well.
Don't forget your tickets. The last thing you want when you arrive is to realize that your tickets are still on the table at home. Have your tickets out and ready. The process of getting inside will be much easier for you and everyone else. Also, have your bags ready to be checked, as most concerts will have a purse inspection.
Do take pictures and videos. We can get caught up in the excitement and forget all about making memories! Take pictures of yourself and your friends before the concert starts and of the band on-stage. It can even be beneficial to get a couple of videos of your favorite songs. Now, no one wants to see your terrible quality concert videos on your Snapchat, but they are still good to have for your own personal memories.
Don't take too many pictures and videos. You don't want to be that person with their phone over their head videotaping the whole time. Make sure you get a few quality shots, but do not record the whole concert. The point of being there is to actually be there, singing along and enjoying the experience. You cannot do that if you are on your phone the whole time.
Do learn the words. In my opinion, concerts are much more fun when you know all of the songs on the set list. If it is a band that you aren't as familiar with, take the time to learn some of the songs before coming to the concert. It will be that much more fun to belt out the lyrics with the rest of the crowd.
Don't push and shove to get ahead of people. For those general admission concerts, there is going to be a lot of struggling to get to the front. We have all seen that girl elbowing past everyone. There is a method for getting to the front that does not involve irritating everyone around you. It is best to get as low as possible and squeeze through the crowd. Be prepared for tall concert-goers to be pushing you; that's what you get with general admission.
With these tips in mind, there's nothing stopping you from having the time of your life at concerts this summer! Don't forget to sit back, relax and have fun!
