Image via Complex Original
What does the continued growth of the EDM scene mean? No, not more advertisers. No, not more overdoses. We're talking about the overall number of people attending EDM festivals. EDM is made to be danced to, and the American festival season is on the rise as well. It's easy to see why so much money is being poured into EDM not to cultivate new labels or artists but to improve upon (and expand) the festival circuit. If the bubble's expanding, it's because of these events. That said, with more EDM hitting the radio, new listeners are finding out about the dance music scene and, you're bound to get more newbies hitting their first EDM shows in 2014. Don't fret, though, DAD has you covered. We wanted to hit you guys with some quick tips to help you not only get prepared for what you're about to experience, but to enter the EDM festival circuit as safely as possible.
Be adventurous
Yes, we know, you're probably going to an EDM festival to see one DJ in particular or hear some song that you have played on loop via YouTube gearing up for this event. And we're not saying you shouldn't indulge... but don't stick to one thing. EDM festivals can have huge lineups, and cater to a number of different sounds. Take a stroll and explore some of the tents for newer DJs, or spend 15 minutes in an area or room with music you're not normally hearing. You'd be surprised what a good DJ in a different sound can do to your perception of a genre you say you hate.
Be alert
With music playing that loud, one of your five senses is cut out. That means you have to be alert, whether it's looking around to making sure you aren't getting hit by flying elbows (or glowsticks) or that you're not bumping into people or that the creeper who's staring at you is at a far distance. Shit can get hectic REAL quick, and you want to make sure you are in control.
Be knowledgeable
Just because you've not been there before doesn't mean you have to look like a doofus. If you enjoy the EDM scene, do some research before you get to the event. At the very least, find out what genre within the EDM umbrella that you like, and see which DJs at said festival will be playing it. That's not to say that you should expect your at-home playlist to be heard during the event, but having a passing knowledge of who's playing will help you leaps and bounds, especially if you meet someone who's a) more knowledgeable than you and b) cool enough to school you on said DJs or genre.
Stay hydrated
Whether you're on drugs or not, festival season normally takes place in warm(er) months. Especially the summer. With the direct sunlight, and the dancing you androids should be doing, at the very least you need to keep your water consumption game on point. The best idea is to buy a bottle of water, then find the refilling station (or water fountain) to keep yourself refilled.
Bring a backpack (and pack wisely)
If the festival you're going to allows backpacks, consider bringing one. Don't go overboard with what you're carrying, though; that teddy bear might be cute and make you look like a doll on the dancefloor, but you might be better off bringing a cellphone charger (and an extra, fully-charged battery), an extra t-shirt, and other necessities. Having a place to stash your water bottle helps as well.
Consider ear plugs
Dance music is made specifically to be played loud in clubs and on any massive rig. You'd be doing yourself a huge favor by thinking ahead and getting a pair of earplugs (the more custom, the better). You'll be able to enjoy the music while at a festival, and will be able to attend more festivals in the future.
Be aware of your surroundings
At the very least, remember where you parked / where your taxi or bus station is. Some of these festivals are placed in the woods or in other remote areas; wandering off can cause huge issues. Also, if you're like DAD and want to hit a number of different areas, it's good to have a map handy (and even set up some kind of schedule for yourself).
Be comfortable
This ranges from the clothes you are partying in to the space you allow yourself. Front row at Ultra is prime location, but being squeezed to death up on the guardrail is never a good look. Neither is rocking cute but impractical shoes or jeans. The better you feel, the better time you'll have.
Remember to have fun
DAD can be like a dad at times, but it's really about making sure you're raving safe. Don't be so locked into how to get through an EDM festival that you forget that you're there to hear AMAZING MUSIC at EXTREMELY LOUD VOLUMES with a bunch of people you love (and might not even know). Prior proper planning FTW.