Both of my kids went to EDC Orlando (Electric Daisy Carnival) recently for a three-day run. I sent them off with my top ten music festival tips — a mix of mom-wisdom and real-life festival experience.
1️⃣ Having a rock star fit is half the battle
Looking good is fun, but comfort keeps high vibes flowing. Bring multiple pairs of shoes for the weekend so you can rotate each day if needed. Your feet will thank you by day three.
2️⃣ Bring cash, a phone charger, and wet wipes
Wet wipes are gold in a music festival port-a-potty world.
3️⃣ Get a good meal in you
You’re going to need the fuel.
4️⃣ Have a meet-up spot
Pick a location to meet your crew at the end of the night. It’s easy to get separated. Cell service can be spotty, so make a plan before the music starts and the signal drops.
5️⃣ Earplugs are our friends
If you like to be close to the action, invest in music-lover earplugs. Some shows/spots can get uncomfortably loud. Permanent ear ringing sucks.
6️⃣ Keep your valuables secure
Keep your keys, phone, ID, and credit card in a pack or pocket that closes. Make sure it’s somewhere no one can easily grab and never set it down – not even for a second.
7️⃣ Hydrate
Dehydration sneaks up fast when you’re dancing for hours. Carry water at all times. You don’t want to make it to the next set only to realize you have to leave to get water. Or worse, end up at the medic.
8️⃣ Respect the vibe
Ask for consent. Every time.
9️⃣ Plan a sober ride home
Plan out your sober ride in advance— your future self will thank you. If you can’t connect with a ride share right away, walk a mile away from the venue and try again.
🔟 Remember the magic words
Just Sparkle. Everything else can wait.
💫 Love you all. Have fun. Be kind. Be safe. Be your most sparkly self.
What festival tips would you add? I’d love to hear your wisdom — feel free to drop your best advice in the comments below.