This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Rochester chapter.
Dandelion Day is only a few days away, which means it’s almost time for one of the most exciting events of the year: the D-Day concert!
After a lot of speculation and guessing (though most of the guesses were Smash Mouth), the band was finally announced by UR Concerts. And I don’t know about you, but I’m super excited to see Matt & Kim perform on Friday!
Concerts are one of my favorite things to attend. There really is something different between listening to a band’s music alone and watching them perform live. Watching people perform live is just fun. There’s always high energy and you’re surrounded by others who enjoy the same things as you do.
So, in preparation for D-Day, or any other concerts you may attend this summer, here are some of my most helpful concert survival tips that I’ve gathered from my years of concert-going.
1. Pack light.
No one wants to be stuck carrying a huge bag. It limits your ability to move around, and it’s also a nuisance for the people around you. Carry the essentials in a small bag (it can even be your pockets, whatever works), and only bring the essentials: phone, keys, wallet, etc. Try to keep your hands free, so you’re able to wave your hands to the music as much as you want.
2. Stay hydrated.
It gets hot in concert crowds, so make sure you have some water on hand as you’re waiting for the band. Passing out is not an uncommon occurrence at shows because people get so hot and dehydrated, so it’s better to be safe than take the risk.
3. Dress comfortably.
Concerts get tiring, especially if there’s no seating and a lot of time between acts. That means a lot of standing and waiting, surrounded by many strangers. So opt for closed-toe shoes over opened-toe (seriously, you don’t want to feel people constantly stepping on you), and wear something breathable and something you can move around in. It’ll make the experience more bearable.
4. Arrive early.
This is more for if the concert is general admission only, meaning there’s no seating and spots are first come, first serve in a standing room. Lines will be long, and if you’re a short person (like me), it’s frustrating to have to watch a show from all the way in the back. So try to arrive a few hours earlier. It’s also a good chance to hang out with friends before the show, or meet fellow fans!
5. Participate!
Nothing is worse than a boring crowd. You paid money for this show, so get into it! Wave your arms, sway to the music, sing along! Don’t just stand there, straight-faced and stoic.
6. Don’t spend the entire concert on your phone.
I know how tempting it is to film every single moment, especially when it’s a band you absolutely love. I’m not opposed to a few pictures or videos, but just make sure to not let that be your entire experience. Make sure to focus on the music and the band. After all, they’re performing for you.
7. Remember your ticket!
Or in the case of D-Day, don’t forget your ID! This seems like common sense, but you’ll be surprised how often people leave the house without the thing they need the most.
Hope you have fun watching Matt & Kim perform, and have an amazing (and safe) Dandelion Day!