Totems and non-negotiable meet up times at designated areas. When me and my group split for sets we always have a spot to meet at, at a specific time and we’ll stay there till everyone arrives.

Have a designated meeting point

This is what totems are for

Totems

the 'front of house' aka the sound booth will always have the prime visual and sound placement, pick a side of that and make it your permanent spot. doesn't matter what stage your at just hang out in the same sound booth spot. If you absolutely have to separate, pretty easy to just stick together tho, but if you HAVE to then you move the meeting spot BEHIND the sound booth since generally its avoided and has more space for spotin out the homie

Festival rule #1: Don't look for your friends. Festival rule #2: Don't leave fun for fun.

My plan for every festival:
Get supplies for weekend.
Arrive.
Set up camp.
????
Take down camp at end of festival.
Go home.

We'll hang out if the universe throws us together.

Damn, how to decline meeting up with friends at a festival?

I just wish I had friends to go to a festival with. 😜

“I prefer to play things by ear at fests instead of making plans. I’m sure I’ll run into you at some point!”

Fr i can’t remember the last time I was actually excited for a lineup or headliner and I’ve been going to just enjoy myself with my fiancée 😂 I love wandering around and doing dumb poses and taking pics and eating each others food

-A "frog togg" towel to put around your neck

• Chug a bottle of water in the car or while walking up from camp. Toss the empty bottle and have another sealed full bottle in your bag to fill up after you drink it
• A hat to protect your face from the sun
• A handheld fan (the kind that clacks, that you have to wave your hand back and forth to use) that you can use not only for yourself but to fan others

This was me and my husband's first time to this festival but having been to others I brought/did the following:

• flat or small charging block. I didn't use it but we were not familiar with the area and didn't want to get too lost after.
• Propel or Gatorade bottle packets, sugar-free. I spaced these out throughout the day and they helped a lot!
• SPF 3oz bottle, a chapstick, and face sunscreen. I almost ran out of sunscreen but also applied religiously every 2 hours.
• a hat with an all-around brim. Don't get too attached just in case it's knocked off by a surfer or it just flies off when headbanging.
• cheap sunglasses! There wasn't giveaways here so I brought a cheap pair of plastic sunglasses. They survived.
• a very packable oversized cotton scarf. Used to cover my legs or sit on the ground. The husband didn't want to use it while standing for some sets... I walked away with a light tan, he was burnt and was showing signs of heat exhaustion.
• 1 plastic reusable water bottle (with a strap), 3 regular water bottles. We each drank 1 bottle before entry and had the other inside.
• I wore a workout set with an oversized cotton long sleeve. Also used it to sit on. Tied around my waist when not in use.
• Ate a decent breakfast but had one large meal meal while there. Avoided alcohol and only had a few sips of a clear soda. I think this helped me the most!!
• I recommend: a small fan, a few individual wet wipes (the sand is fine and will get everywhere), buying cold water when you need it, and maybe one of those cooling neck towels.

Overall, great experience and even if I had brought a fan or neck towel it wouldn't have changed my experience by much. I do wonder why organizers didn't have a sunscreen sponsor. Other festivals typically offer free stands and you would think the Sunshine State would be all over protecting half to mostly naked bodies but no. The burns I saw on some people looked like hell!!

Start hydrating a week before. Try to be in the sun more leading up to the festival. Shoes are a big one. Be comfortable not pretty

• Buy new sport soles for your shoes a couple weeks before the festival. The default soles your shoes come with are sometimes not good enough for 30+ miles of walking in 4 days.

• Eat a meal before you go inside. Save a ton of money by minimizing the festival foods. Buc-ee’s is also a great place to visit after the festival, it is only 10 minutes away.

• Dress for the weather. It shocks me to see people in full goth attire and costumes in 100 degree heat. Every year I reserve 4 white/bright colored band shirts to wear for WTR.

Bring a factory sealed water bottle. Amazon has these little carabiner water bottle holders that are relatively cheap that you can clip on a belt loop so you don't loose your bottle and keep your cap. Wear light clothing that covers your skin to prevent sun burns and faster dehydration. Include a Bandana if not for your head and neck to help keep dust out of your lungs and eyes around stages like garage and octane. If you choose to mosh there are rules. Crowd killing (intentionally punching people) is a dick move in most people's opinions. If someone falls help them up don't trample them. If someone wants out of the pit let them out. If you find a lost item hold it up so the owner can find it or return it to lost and found when the band is done. If you choose to crowd surf keep your legs crossed and arm spread but not flayling. This prevents you from getting hurt and others. Also helps to carry you better.

You can also use them as a smidge of shade to block the sun ;) and I'm pretty sure those fans helped a lot of people in crowds. I'll never stop fanning those that need it

i do this all the time, especially if i am tripping.

i hate using the word “vibes” but sometimes the people around you just don’t give off a good vibe and if that happens, i just move… even if it means sacrificing a good spot i have been at most of the evening

but more often than not, i hang out near the back and it’s never really an issue compared to when you try moving forward in the crowd.

shows are too expensive to suffer though people you don’t want to be around and not enjoy yourself.

I struggle, cause I am a "let's move" person, but my girlfriend is a "I was here before them. Why should I give up my spot?" Person. Makes some shows unbearable and we end up just leaving cause she cant stand the idea of "giving in" to their asshole-ness.

Yeah I agree. The sea of phone and not dancing is harder to deal with than a generally not very “plur” crowd that at least is dancing.

But 100% correct about creating your own pockets. I sometimes see a bad crowd as a challenge. I try to have a contagious degree of fun and sometimes it works!

I’ve had amazing times late night at small shows when it’s almost empty and just me and a handful of friends. Sometimes it’s almost the most fun bc it feels like the dj is playing just for you and ur friends.

Same, I came to all of this when I met my boyfriend at 33 years old and I hate crowds so much. I stand as far back as I can and often end up with my pash over my face so I can just focus on the music and dance in peace.

100% agree with your second point. If you can't find the good vibes, it's on you to create them by either finding the like-minded people or putting out so much energy that they're attracted to you.

A bit different, but I find nothing more satisfying than arriving at a rave at opening hour, and taking the initiative to start the dancefloor while everyone is still huddled in the back chatting. 

Head down, eyes closed, not overly expressive to give people the confidence to come join you. Get lost in the zone by yourself for 10 minutes only to look up and realize there's now 30 people around you all dancing too. There's nothing like it. 

I feel the normal take is just complaining about the crowd lmfao. That’s a fair point, I’ve been in that situation tho & walked away from them too met back up later 🤣

Well that’s kinda the point right? It’s obvs distracting for the person doing it, and can distract others behind you, pulling them outta the moment. I don’t care too much - I try to catch a couple clips from the shows I see for longevity and to bring me back to that moment later - when I do it I put my phone on the bill of my hat, screen lit only the minimum, and keep moving while I do.

I will say, there’s no worse feeling than being the caboose of your group and the movement stops suddenly - right in front of another group. I always feel so bad but like how are you supposed to prevent that…

I always have a good time and don’t really pay attention to the crowd. I go to a festival at least every 3 months. If I don’t like where I’m at, I go somewhere else. It’s who you go with that makes it also. You also have to go into it with optimism. If someone is pushing through, who cares just let them pass and keep watching the show. I’ve always had a good experience at all the festivals. I just give head nods and a smile to everyone around me, but I’m always focused on the show and my crew

Edit: good experience

Get a totem

Pick a rally point and time between shows

It's too crowded now to try and find your friends in a crowd once the set starts regardless imo, even with a totem.

Yeah we've done stuff like that before. The problem is you can't rely on everyone in the group having cell reception all the time

11 year EF goer here:

have meetup places or spots you usually go to at each stage and then people can come and go

at ranch my friends and i designated a tree to go to if youre lost at any point

tripolee right side in line with the bathrooms

observatory - back left by the wonky tree

sherwood, right side in line with the strings frmo the beer tent

you get the idea
and then adjust if the crowd is too big or smaller than expected

also, the less you worry the better. the Forest provides all you need. it's ok to be lost, you never know who or what you may find. just know where camp is!

Put an airtag on their shoe or in the hydration pack or something haha

Sometimes it's nice to break from a group and do your own thing, ya know?

Luckily last year for the Dandadan panel, since they clear out rooms before 18+ panels - that was somewhat fair. But that line was MASSIVE

Yeah panel camping just seems to be a reality for AX

• better if you have consecutive panels you ARE interested in
• much worse if your panels are in different rooms

It’s kind of messed up when a popular panel is coming up and the previous panel gets a huge crowd and not because people are interested, but because they’re just camping out for the next one. It gives off the wrong impression to the current panel host, like people don’t actually care about what’s happening now. Feels a bit disrespectful, honestly.

Check the schedule! It will say “rooms will NOT be cleared “ meaning people can sit for how long they want! (Pretty stupid concept tbh. Some panels will be filled with people who are not really interested but are willing to wait there , but I think AX is either short staff/need quick transitions, that they don’t want to clear the rooms ) Also if the panel is reallly popular, u wanna come in 2-3 panels ahead of it . (Wanted to see Offline tv , people waited the moment the room open and basically sent up a tent inside )

I noticed a lot of popular panels are first thing in the day. So hopefully we won’t see a repeat

My first AX i had to learn this lesson too! Thanks for the PSA!

I dont mean to seem rude, but if someone doesn't want to touch a stranger they shouldnt have to. I know some people have a huge fear of being accused of sexual assault and some of them may be worried about that. (I've heard a lot of stories of people being groped while crowd surfing) And others might just want to enjoy the show without having to have someone directly above their head. If youre crowd surfing you should know the possibilities that can happen. Yes people shouldnt just be left to fall on the floor, they should definitely have people at least trying to catch them if that happens just like youd try to catch someone thats passing out. But other people also shouldnt be expected to put their comfort aside just because someone else wanted to crowd surf without considering how the people around them will feel about it. Both of them seem inconsiderate imo. Yes its a concert, and yes its a pit, but we all still need to be considerate of those around us. And we all need to watch out for each other and keep each other safe.

Yep, I'm one of the fallen ones lol.. already bruising and in pain🥲 shortest way to put it, empathy was definitely lacking last night lol I miss the old like 2012 crowd when everyone stuck to pit rules and went crazy.. with this crowd I felt like over half the crowd was more concerned about recording every single thing on their phone.. uhg another ick.. take pics vids whatever great but damn people when ur arms been raised for over 20 min recording I think its time for a break lol... and also bc ur phones blocking our view #shortgirlproblems lol

Yeah same here! My friends and I started lil small mosh pits which were so much fun!! It’s like people don’t want to enjoy themselves because they want to record on their phones

Don’t catch someone if you feel like your own safety will be at risk. Period. Don’t let elder folk speaking from an elder emo pressure you guys into putting your own safety after a strangers. Even if “Kellin” said. Kellin is safe and sound on that stage. He’ll be fine regardless.

People crowdsurfing know the risk before going up there. Your safety > anyone else’s. Take care of one another of course but prioritize yourself first.

Crowd surfing entitlement is crazy. I keep saying this again and again. PTV/SWS peak fanbase currently is around 14-18 year old girls in the pit now a days who camp out. It’s just how it is. Nobody chose this. Not anyone’s fault. Expecting teenagers to carry grown people is nuts. I’m sorry and maybe I sound like an asshole but if one can do it- please take care of the crowd surfers. But for the little girls in the pit. Don’t sacrifice yourself for someone trying to catch a wave.

If you duck- you’re ducking bc you’re well aware they won’t fall on you and the people around you will catch them. I’m sure nobody’s crazy enough to duck knowing there’s a HIGH chance someone will fall on their spine.

And if you’re gonna duck and nobody around you seems to catch the person. TELL SOMEONE. That’s you taking care of yourself first and then trying to take care of the next person. There’s a 98% someone still step in for you. If nobody’s says anything-just move and respectfully don’t be in someone’s way if you’re not gonna help. Good on you for staying safe though!

I’m not catching anyone who I feel like weighs more than me- FUCK that. If you wanna be part of the fun- educate yourself in crowd surfing to do it right on the receiving end. But you’re in NO obligation to anyone but yourself.

Entitlement in rock shows now a days is insane. Take care of one another but never EXPECT or ASSUME someone will take care of you unless you’re with a close friend who accompanied you.

Stay safe.

Hi I have a question for yall that were in the pit, my friend said people were lining up at 7 am, but do people really not let you walk up? Like if we get there when doors open are we stuck at the back of the pit or do people let you in?

Also i can't believe this is even needing to be said but JESUS MAN WEAR DEODORANT SOME OF YALL LITERALLY HAD YOUR OWN FUNK THAT SMELT LIKE IT WAS MARINATING FOR DAYS🥲

I am watching the stage, not the crowd...

Why should my fun be halted because someone's version of fun requires other people's participation, willing or not.

Most venues will say they don't permit crowd surfing then don't stop it when it happens.

Therefor, injuries are the venue's problem.

If I had advice to share with the new generation of Coachella attendees, I'd say choose your own adventure. No need to always stick with your group. If you wanna see someone and your friends don't, just go on your own adventure and meet back up with them after. Don't sacrifice artists you wanna see just to stick with the group.

Anyone who brings gum. PLEASE save the wrapper and spit your gum into it when you're done, then throw it away in a trash can! I had like 8 pieces of gum stuck to my shoes from walking around last year. Absolutely disgusting.

I think they say no gum for this reason. I don't expect anyone to follow that rule, but please y'all! WE LIVE IN A SOCIETY! Dispose of your sticky ass gum properly.

There’s a gated (sometimes elevated) area situated around the center or rear of the stages and tents. The sound and light techs work the mix from there within the crowd so they know what it’s sounding like to the audience. Naturally the sets sound best around these areas, and if you can get right in front of them there’s no one behind you pushing through

to your second point, if you want the best sonic experience, find the sound booth.

I wish! We’re taking the year off and throwing a Couchella instead. Hopefully we’ll be back next year. 🤞🏼

Yes this is me and my wife! One of the Coachella photographers took a pic of us two years ago. We cherish it so much :)

Solid advice, thanks for sharing

Side note does anybody know what kind of camera that they will let in, that can take pictures like that?

Was just going to say this. I'll take sound booth area over front row at almost any show ever.

Heres the thing no one gives two flips about the way we present ourselves in public. The WORST thing that someone may think is "wow that person is weird" thats it! I am sometimes weird in public just for the fun of it because when it is all said and done we are all just human.

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As long as you are not disturbing the peace you will be fine. Music festivals are a great thing to attend because no-one is focused on you they will be focusing on the music. Dont be afraid of other people we are all just people.

Definitely following these responses. I’ve always wanted to go to Coachella or shaky beats but can’t handle the anxiety induced thoughts of going alone in a big crowd like that

Honestly I’m hella awkward sometimes, but I was like do I play warframe or go to this kick Norse festival. I just went I was hella off put by so many people but I just said fuck it I’m here imma nerd out and I really enjoyed myself made some acquaintances as well

I get a little overwhelmed in crowded places and bored and resentful if I’m dragged out somewhere that I can’t leave if I get tired. Try to bring stuff as a back up in case you’re not digging the scene you’re in. I try to stay engaged with friends and such but I feel like certain social situations can feel like punishment. Consider whether you’d benefit from bringing the following: earplugs, something to read (kindle, book and flashlight, or just your phone with an extra power supply). Feel free to go on a little adventure with your partner. Don’t feel like you can’t step out of the social group if you need to collect yourself. You sound real sweet and I’m sure people like you if you give them a chance to know you. If it’s not a fit, then c’est la vie. You’ll find your people. Give your partner a heads up and ask them what they expect from the experience. I wouldn’t want you to expect something that doesn’t align with their hopes for the festival.

I’m assuming it’s an outdoor music festival and it’ll last from the daytime into the evening. Make sure you get all your sleep the night before, stay hydrated, wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and don’t lock your knees when you’re standing for long periods of time. Bring sunblock and maybe a hat and some sunglasses. Don’t eat total junk. You can’t just go home if you get sick or drowsy from greasy food or too much alcohol. I try to follow these guidelines for festivals so that I can won’t be bothered by the things I could’ve avoided.