While searching the internet you find out that your favorite artist has a concert nearby.
You and friends make a plan in a group chat for the concert. But as time passes by you start communicating less, and when you arrive at the concert everything is uncoordinated. Two of your friends are wearing matching outfits, someone else is wearing a chicken suit, and 2 people don’t even show up. This is why planning is so important.
How do you plan for concerts? How should you dress? What should you bring?
It’s common for people to dress themselves based on the artist they are seeing and the forecast of the day. If it’s sunny then you should wear lighter clothes, and if it’s on the colder side then you should layer to keep you warm so you can still wear light clothes underneath. You should also coordinate your outfits based on the aesthetic of the concert and genre. For items most concert venues don’t allow large backpacks, so make sure to pack based on necessities.
This sentiment is shared by many teachers and students.
“Well I’ll probably bring water, of course, and then a snack,” says Charlotte Cartwright, 9, when asked what she would bring to a concert.
“I would probably make sure I have chapstick, gum, my wallet, and my credit card if I want to buy some merch or snacks. Normally you can’t bring in a water bottle or other things, but if I could, water to stay hydrated. And a snack as well…spicy cheez-its!” Ashleigh Wood, World History/Geography Teacher, explains while drinking her Celsius at 9:30 in the morning
After you’ve put on your outfit, you’re ready to head over to the venue. Make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes early so you can get parking. And if you’re with other people, carpooling will reduce the parking spaces you need. Moving in a group is also more effective at concerts because of safety, and you can talk about the concert after it’s finished. Some venues offer food and drink but it’s honestly better to just pack your snacks and drinks.
When you enter the venue make sure to be mindful. Don’t go around pestering people or trying to break any of the rules. Depending on the venue the rules might vary. For example some concerts allow outside food and snacks whereas some don’t, they could also have pet regulations. While the concert is going on, try to maintain a distance from other attendees, tons of concerts end up with a few crowd surges or full-blown riots. Other ways you can prevent crowd surges are wearing decent footwear (ex. sneakers), staying hydrated, and listening to directions that security/police give you.
Another event that can happen is theft. It can be subtle pick-pocketing or just straight up threats. To protect yourself you should put your items in a secure bag and be spatially aware.
Lastly, when leaving the venue you should check for all your belongings, make sure your friends/family are in sight or close by, and you know where the closest exit is to your parking spot. This is also the time to buy merch if you haven’t already.
