Some of us are festival veterans, we’ve been to so many we can’t even count and along the way we’ve learned tricks and tips to help survive the many obstacles that can be thrown at us. For some, Moonrise is a first festival experience, an experience that can be somewhat intimidating and daunting if you’re not sure what to expect so check out our top tips and tricks for surviving the two days of excitement and madness.
Eat a good breakfast:
We all now breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and this especially holds true when you’ll be dancing your heart out in 90 degree weather for two days so eating a good breakfast to give you lots of energy is our #1 tip. A lot of times we get too distracted to remember to eat once we’re there so having a substantial meal before you arrive is key. Not a breakfast person? Well this year Moonrise will be providing a whole bunch of amazing food vendors in the grounds, look out for a full list releasing soon!
Avoiding Lines:
If you attended last year you know this ended up being a huge problem, if this is your first year attending you got lucky. While previously we would have just suggested arriving early at the gates with your tickets in hand the whole process will be much smoother for 2016. Moonrise has decided to have early pick up dates starting the Thursday before and will have multiple entrances.
Staying Hydrated
This is another very important festival tip. Between the dancing and the heat your bound to shed a couple pounds in water weight which can leave you feeling dehydrated and then later sick. We all want to avoid the medical tent so your best investment is a Camelpak. Not only is it a back pack that holds water but you can keep your other items in it as well. You’re allowed to bring them in empty and fill them at the available water stations for free. Walmart sells them as well as Amazon. Moonrise will also have their volunteer Star Team who passes out water bottles and makes sure everyone stays well hydrated.
Earplugs
You may be one of the ones who stays in the open area of the stage far back from the stage or the speakers, but if you’re tempted on getting as close as possible or end up next to a speaker you’re going to want these #1 items to pack. Earplugs will save you from the incessant ringing in your ears after a long day of loud music. Plus, who wants hearing aids by the time you’re 30?
Surviving the heat and Sun
SUNSCREEN. This will save you from that painful burn or even worse, sun poisoning. Heat exhaustion can ensue as well, and while staying hydrated will help this taking breaks under the stages with tents or some of the chill shaded areas Moonrise provides will ensure you stay cool. Still can’t seem to cool off? Moonrise always has a misting tent. It gets a bit muddy, but the cool water will surely take your body temperature down a notch or two should you feel like you’re over heating.
What to wear
This is usually much easier for men to figure out than women, we love our festival outfits, but this is key for not only staying cool but staying comfortable. When it comes to shirts and shorts, wear something loose fitting or stretchy, if it wicks away sweat, even better, shorts and tank tops are usually best and bringing a jacket or shirt if you go the shirtless or bathing suit route is best in case it gets cool at night. Don’t make yourself miserable by wearing flip flops, your toes will surely get stomped on. Your best bet are sneakers, they’re comfortable, will ensure less chance of blisters and keep your legs from feeling like they want to fall off by the end of the day. Some people even go as far as inserting gel soles, they feel magical when you’re on your feet all day. Stay away from heels ladies, it’s not worth it! Don’t forget your sunglasses, this will save you from squinting all day!
Miscellaneous items
There area million tips we could share but here are a few things to be sure to pack that you may not think of:
- Poncho: the plastic ones are under a $1 and if you’re worried about it raining these are great to have.
- Plastic baggie: Great for your phone if it starts to rain
- Chapstick: Make sure it’s sealed when you’re bringing it in. Otherwise security might snatch it. But this is great for if the sun starts to chap your lips.
- Bandaids: If you’re blister prone these will be a savior
- Fanny Pack: If you don’t want to carry around a backpack all day fanny packs are one of the easiest bags to carry
- Hair Ties: If you have long hair these are something you don’t want to forget. It keeps your hair off your neck and out of your face when it gets super hot.
Our last and final tip: Don’t be afraid of the Medical Tent.
They’re there to help you and can usually provide you with almost anything you need. They’re always clearly marked on the map and medics are constantly roaming the grounds keeping an eye on everyone to make sure we’re all having fun and staying safe. The festival map will also point out exactly where everything is, so you wont have to worry about not being able to find it.
We hope these help and there are many more tips and tricks so if we missed any you’ve found super helpful be sure to share!
Moonrise tickets are still on sale and can be purchased here
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http://www.moonrisefestival.com