Festivals have sky-rocketed in popularity. Basically mostly everyone has been to at least one festival, is going to one or dying to go. Personally, I was lucky enough to go to two. In 2012 I went to Tomorrowland, one of Europe’s biggest and definitely one of the most famous festivals. Reason being is that it attracts different people because it caters to different genres. In 2013 I opted for a rock festival, which like Tomorrowland is also in Belgium, Rock Werchter. If someone would come up to me and ask me which I enjoyed most, I would definitely have a difficult time answering.this is becauset they are completely different, and I was once told that your first festival will definitely be your favourite, and I can definitely agree because nothing will replace the high you get when you experience your first festival.
Festivals are definitely something you should experience at least one (which probably won’t be the case because you’ll want to keep going), where you let yourself go and experience new things which you will definitely not experience anywhere else.
“it’s a real sensation to the senses- based
on what you see and what you hear”
– Karl Cox (Tomorrowland 2011)
Which Festival should I go to?
Well it all comes down to your personal taste. There are all types of festivals out there, with different types of music. Just one suggestion, your first festival will always be your favourite and you will definitely keep it close to your heart, so choose wisely! I suggest a big festival since you will get the most unforgettable experience. (not that any festival is forgettable)
Will it break the bank?
Not really. Basically you will need the festival ticket price which varies from one festival to another. Whether you choose to camp or stay at a hotel, will definitely have an effect on your budget. A camping site is usually no more than 50 euro for the whole stay. Hotels are more expensive, plus you would need transportation to and from the festival. When it comes to spending money, festivals aren’t that expensive, if you’re a bit careful of course.
What should I pack?
Well this again varies whether you are camping or sleeping at a hotel. If you’re camping the obvious tent, sleeping bag etc are needed. I would definitely suggest packing an air mattress with you because sleeping in a tent for 3 to 4 nights is not as pleasant as it sounds especially when you are partying all day. If you don’t own a mattress, I would suggest not spending money on one. A lilo would be just fine (yes the one you use for the beach). They are not as comfortable as a mattress but they’re cheaper and definitely lighter in weight. Weight is definitely an important factor especially if you are travelling with a low cost airline- trust me every little thing counts (1kg overweight will cost you 15eur with Ryanair). I emphasise on the weight not only because it would cost you if you are overweight, but if you are camping, you will most likely to have to travel quite a bit to reach the camping site, so the lighter your luggage the easier the trip. I would suggest researching the country you are going to and looking at the predicted weather so as to know if to pack summer or winter clothes. I would suggest t-shirts and cardigans so as to be prepared for cold weather. Also, if the you get there and realise it is cold just buy a festival hoodie (you’re going to buy it anyway so as to have a piece of merchandise from the festival)
What should I wear?
Get out of your comfort zone! Festivals are all about wearing crazy clothes — but research first because every festival is different and you don’t want to go looking like a loony. For example at Tomorrowland the crazier you look the better- the clothes, the make-up and the accessories. For summer festivals, when it comes to clothes, the less the better. Do pack a bikini, because if it is warm enough you might actually be running around with shorts and a bikini top.
If you’re planning going on a festival this summer, I’m jealous! (have fun for me). If you’re not, then I’m guessing you’re planning on going to one next year like me, because festivals are the great new in thing at the moment. Exercise your hands, because you will tire them out while jumping and clapping, shouting your head off and feel as if you’re living in a dream.