The countdown begins! Get ready music lovers, Music Midtown is steadily approaching and hosts a killer lineup that swoons all types of music fans of all ages to Piedmont Park. This is a quick guide to
Plan Ahead
Book where you are staying far in advanced. Hotels will sell out! Another great option for those who plan too late or avoid hotels, check out airbnb which has a unique place for you to sleep for the night across metro-Atlanta. Whatever suits you just make sure you reserve your accommodation asap.
Find the lineup here (the lineup is scheduled to host more musicians). Figure out who you want to see. Schedule your shows and do your best to avoid scheduling conflicts. If you wish to wait hours so you can try to get front row for (your favorite band here), you are not alone. Everybody wants to get as close as possible, but if you are blocking the way for true fans of the band currently playing be considerate and don't spoil the fun. Go to the concert with an empty mindset and you will be surprised by someone you've never heard. You've spent good money, try not to waste it on one show. Explore the festival, meet new people, listen to new music, and have an amazing time.
What to Avoid
Lines are not fun and port a potties lines can take over 30 minutes just to use the restroom. If you really have to go, look out for children’s port a potties — they are just as convenient and generally there is never a line.
Eating at the park can be expensive, but you are allowed to leave at any time and return after checking out. If you can find a break in between sets head on over to Trader Joe’s and Woody’s to hydrate and stock up on deliciously fresh food. Make sure you check out before leaving the park or else you will not be allowed back in!
Do not lose your wristband! I repeat do not lose your wristband. If you lose it, your festival adventure will come to an unhappy ending without being able to see Drake or Elton John perform.
Avoid the dope. Please whatever you do, do not take random substances from strangers. It is a festival and exciting and wild, but do not trust what others are readily handing out for free even if they say it is okay and fine.
Getting lost. Cell service is spotty at large venues and will make your phone worthless. Arrange a rendezvous point for an emergency. Use glow in the dark paint, LED wristbands, glow sticks etc. to make spotting out your friends easier. Don't hesitate to ask for assistance from the staff under any circumstance.
Safety First
Your health is the most important thing, and by staying healthy you'll have the greatest show in your life!
Beat the heat. Stay hydrated, eat, and stay out of the sun if you can. Fuel up on water, either bring one factory sealed water bottle or one empty bottle and refill it endlessly at several conveniently located watering stations across the park. Drink as much water as you can because dehydration is a serious ailment for festivals.
Sunscreen is crucial to making it out alive. Sunscreen prevents deep awkward sunburns and helps shield the heat from you, just make sure you apply multiple times throughout the day.
If somehow some way, a recreational substance(s) enters your body make sure you remain chill and enjoy the good vibes. If possible stay with your friends or designated group to watch over you and check up on you every once in awhile. Especially drink a lot of water while under the influence.
If you are 21+ and plan on drinking, do it responsibly. This is an all ages event, chances are there will be children there. Don't make them witness their first drunken stranger shitshow. Enjoy the show, don't ruin it for others and yourself by getting belligerent and blacking out. If you have a weak tolerance for alcohol don't throw it down. Just sip, sing, and groove. Watch out for your friends, you don't want to carry them around for the rest of the night.
Be wild yet tamed. Over 10% of all emergencies at concerts are from crowd surfing please be cautious on who you plan on jumping on.
What to Bring
Blanket and/or towels are a necessity if you plan on laying back and sitting on the green. Towels are great for removing excess sweat and drying off.
Rain or shine means rain or shine. An emergency poncho in the event of a flash storm to prevent your festival gear from getting drenched and ruining your things. If you’re the reckless daredevil type that enjoys getting soaked at concerts then ignore this.
Cash is essential. Stuff your pockets, socks, and bras full of hard cash to avoid ATMs and the possibility of losing your credit/debit card(s) and ruining your evening. All vendors will accept cash, not all will accept cards.
A fully charged mobile device used strictly for communication to last all day (yeah right, good luck with that).
A map — mental, physical, or digitally download the MM map from the Music Midtown App and learn where everything is (food, stages, restrooms, and exits).
What NOT to Bring
these are definite no no's
backpacks
camelbaks
professional cameras (anything with a detachable lens)
rollerblades/skates, scooters, skateboards
outside food
weapons
pets (service dogs okay)
illegal substances
glass
aerosol cans
tents and chairs
coolers
Apparel
safety & comfort > looking good (if you can't resist)
Do not wear open-toed shoes. There will be mud, dirt, feet stopping hippies, and no time to tend to your broken toenails. Comfortable beat up sneakers or throwaway shoes are a must. You won't have to worry about getting them scuffed or have painful feet from standing and jumping for 12 hours. Rain boots are a good go to option if it has been raining days prior to the event (September 18th & 19th). So check the weather in advanced!
It will be hot. Sweat wicking material is the best option for your shirt and pants. Denim holds moisture in longer than cotton or polyester and takes decades to dry. You may get wet, you may get drinks spilled on you, or you may sweat your heart out when you see your favorite musician, so find something you won't care about getting stained or ruined. Hats are heavily suggested and can top off your outfit. They keep the rays out to keep you cool.
Purses are iffy. I know a lot of women can't live without them, but at a festival like this you don't need them. Pack intelligently & minimally. Invest in pockets or socks. If you have to bring a purse make sure it is small and can be strapped across your chest.
Transportation
MM is a car-less event and is not recommended to bring your own vehicle because there is no designated parking. Private neighborhoods will be blocked off to the public.No camping at the park.
There are 5 main entrances to the festival where you must check in, find the one best suited for your arrival.
• Charles Allen Gate is located at the corner of 10th Street and Charles Allen Drive.
• Park Drive / Bridge Gate is accessible from Monroe and Park Drive.
• Lakeside Gate is accessible from the 14th Street entrances into Piedmont Park or by Magnolia Hall.
• 10th Street Gate is located across from Grady High School.
• 12th Street Gate is located at 12th Street and Piedmont.
UBER is highly praised — for first time users your first ride is discounted $20 with the promo code MusicMidtown2015. Uber is the modern day taxi and prevents congestion. Lyft is another great transportation service.
MARTA is super convenient and avoids the congestion of the busy Atlanta streets. Map out your route HERE.
Walk or Ride your bike on the Beltline. The Beltline wraps around the entire city and provides a safe, green alternative mode of transportation. It also supports a healthy lifestyle! There is a valet service for bikes located near the 10th Street entrance.
REMEMBER: have fun and enjoy the show(s)! Have a blast with other like musically-minded people. Stay hydrated. Be happy. Get your groove on.
For more info, head over to MusicMidtown.com.
