Many people believe that having the Electric Forest Music Festival in Rothbury is not good for the community. There are some negative impacts in the area, but overall I believe that the festival has a positive impact in the communities surrounding it.
Although some businesses and the locals might be negatively impacted by shoplifting, traffic issues, or disrespectful people on their properties, the festival can bring a positive impact to the community. The amount of people that flock to Rothbury bring a new level of business that wouldn’t come any other way. Once people see how nice the area is, they might even come back again.
People might think that the people that put the festival together are only worried about their profit, but there are many ways that Electric Forest helps the communities around it. Both the band programs of Shelby Public Schools and Montague public schools have received generous donations to benefit the students learning. As an alum from the Shelby band program, I know how big of an impact Electric Forest has made. They donated thousands of dollars so we could buy new equipment, new uniforms, create a piano lab, and new instruments. It was a blessing for our program and we are very grateful for all the effort put into helping our small town band. On top of donating money to our program, our marching band gets to march through Electric Forest. Most of us would never get the opportunity to experience anything like Electric Forest without this chance. It’s a glimpse into a different kind of atmosphere, in a safe and fun way. It is thrilling to see all these people coming together, and being supportive of our band. If you check out the Music In Schools Program page on the Electric Forest website, there are 6 pictures of my band. Electric Forest has impacted our band, and we have left our mark there as well.
Having Electric Forest only 10 minutes down the road is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. I love having the opportunity to go to a big music festival, but be able to go home at night to sleep and shower. Plus I’m able to work during the day. I might not be fully experiencing it, but at least I get to be a part of it.
I’ve never been to any other big music festivals, but I know that Electric Forest is one of the most unique places and experiences ever. The way it is set up is incredible. They turn forest and ranch areas into a work of art. Sherwood Forest is one of the most beautiful places ever. At night all of it lights up and a new kind of energy flows throughout the entire festival.
The music is always incredible. There are so many different artists to see and it changes constantly. I’m so lucky that I can see such great artists so close to home, because i’m sure I wouldn’t see them any other way.
I will always love my time at Electric Forest. The atmosphere is incredible and I have loved going for the past two years. The festival can be such a positive impact in my community and others, and be a great thing for the people. I can’t wait for Electric Forest this year, and I hope other people are just as excited as I am.
