When I first started going to music festivals I did it for the thrill, the pure fact of having a good time. As I continued to plan different festivals and bring my friends along, I started to realize music festivals can give you more than just an enjoyable time. There is so much under the surface of just making memories.

Music festivals give you freedom. Going to a festival is almost like a vacation, you have nothing to worry about but having fun for the amount of time that you’re there. In saying this, you have the freedom to use your time however you want!

Being able to choose your every move without worrying about responsibility is a liberating feeling that we all deserve to experience at some point. Going with a group could potentially make this harder, but you can always stray off for a while and meet back up with your crew later.

The bottom line is pure freedom is a rehabilitating feeling, especially when you spend your weeks working or attending classes.

Expression is the most beneficial aspect of attending a festival. All around you people are wearing what they want, doing what they please and vibing to music that allows them to open up. Expression is so prominent at festivals, people bring poles with flags, cardboard cutouts and other items that are held high for all to see; the sight is completely refreshing.

Music festivals are completely judgement free zones that provide an atmosphere for people to bring what they have to the table, a place where you can be your complete unfiltered self.

Expression is vital for mental health, festivals implement a perfect opportunity for each to do so. It is not only radiating your own persona but also absorbing the expression of others that is fulfilling.

Being in an atmosphere with thousands of people expressing themselves is completely mind opening. It brings you this sense of belonging but at the same time expands your way of thinking.

After spending some time at a festival you begin to respect everyone in a unique way, I believe this is a benefit every single person should be exposed to at one point in their life. If every single person on this earth would open their mind to the differences we share, we would be able to come together instead of turning our backs on one another.

Because when inside a festival, despite our differences whether they might be physical, mental or emotional; we all come together in a bond over music.

Music festivals are not for everyone but I highly suggest you not only give it shot for the experience but for the freedom, expression and opportunity to open your mind. There is a place for everyone at festivals all ages, gender, race, religion, etc, and you'll be sure to find your niche.

Don't forget to check out the vendors as well, you will find homemade crafty items at festivals that you cannot find anywhere else. Most of the time, these treasures come from hard work and bare hands, it is amazing to see what humans are capable of making. Vendors might consist of either unique foods that are worth trying or homemade hand bags and clothing, either way it is difficult to find this diversity anywhere else.