What to expect when attending Hulaween music festival for the first time (or any music festival)
- Olivia Smith
- Sep 11, 2019
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 10, 2019
So you just bought your first music festival ticket. Hulaween is in one month. You may be having regrets on taking out of your savings to purchase an overpriced ticket, or you may be too excited to even care. Well my friend, the hardest part is done. Whether or not you have a group of people that you are going with, it may be a little overwhelming to make sure everything goes right.
Each and every music festival differs from one another. You may be camping out for a few days Woodstock style, driving a few minutes down the road, or traveling hundreds of miles away for a festival. It may be extremely hot and sunny or cold and rainy. Regardless, there is always a way to prepare.
Whether you make a new friend, discover your new favorite band, try a crazy outfit, or even fall asleep during a set, it is completely up to you to make the best of your time and money. I have provided a collection of tips and advice that I have gathered over the years to help you all out as best as I can.
You’re going to have to get used to big crowds and a lot of people.
Music brings people together. This is a fact. But no one ever seems to mention the amount of people coming together. Thankfully, most of the attendees tend to be the kindest people you meet. However, when your favorite DJ is playing their set in 15 minutes, you need to plan accordingly so you can beat the crowd for a closer spot. I highly suggest taking a look at the different set times and planning accordingly, so you are able to see at least a few minutes of as many artists as possible. Write down each set time and location in your notes on your phone, to avoid getting stuck behind long lines and crappy spots in the back of the crowd.
Porta-potties will be your new best friend.
If you prefer to be alone in the comfort of a luxurious bathroom, you’re going to have to get used to sharing. Don’t worry, they are normally efficient and regularly cleaned. While few festivals have actual stalls, you should expect nothing more but the wonderful porta-potty at every music festival. If you’re camping, bring your own toilet paper and baby wipes to leave at the campsite. When you gotta go, you gotta go!
Water, water, water!
No matter where you are or how hot it is, you MUST drink plenty of water throughout the day. After hours of standing on your feet, especially in the heat, it is so easy to get dehydrated. Alcohol doesn’t help. Whether you are drinking or not, always bring a Camelbak backpack and fill it with water. Most festivals will let you bring in empty backpacks or water bottles to fill up. Plan to bring as much water as possible with you, even though you will always find water stations throughout the festival grounds.
Bring comfortable (but CUTE) outfits.
Picking out your outfits for a music festival is always the best part. Some people, like me, love going to festivals for the sole purpose of dressing however you feel. You will see people wearing boho patterns, long kimonos, booty shorts, and even birthday suits. You are allowed to express yourself however you wish, but try to make it comfortable. If you’re going in the summer, pack light layers that you can bring with you in a backpack so you’re covered if it gets cooler at night. Wear shoes or boots that you don’t mind getting muddy that have a lot of support because you will be dancing. Amazon sells ponchos that you can roll up into your bag, should your parade get rained on.
Camping? You’re going to get dirty.
This year, Hulaween is offering a reserved camping option to ensure you find a good campsite. You can purchase this option on their website if you are interested (https://suwanneehulaween.com/camping-2019/). Although camping can be a little uncomfortable, it is also a great experience for you and your friends to share. I’ve camped in tents, backseats of cars, and on a yoga mat. If sleep is important to you, bring as many blankets and pillows as possible. Another essential you will thank yourself for bringing at night is earplugs. Neighbors will be loud, and artists will be on stage 24/7. Pack baby wipes for mini-showers and lots of mosquito repellent. Dry shampoo will always have your back if you can’t shower.
Get ready to have the time of your life.
Walking around the festival grounds, seeing your favorite artists perform with your best friends is the best thing you will ever get to experience. Even if something goes unplanned, try to remember where you are and stay positive! Everyone around you is willing to make sure you have the most fun you can. This may be your first festival, but it definitely won’t be your last.
Photo by: Emmanuel Ostrovsky México from Pixabay
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