The annual Hardly Strictly Bluegrass festival returns this weekend inside of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park from Friday, Sept. 30- Sunday, Oct. 2. The three-day concert is free admission and will host over 100 artists on seven stages. This year’s lineup includes artists like, Emmylou Harris, CAKE, Dropkick Murphys, Cyndi Lauper, Chris Isaak, Patty Griffin and many more. Each day there will also be a silent disco dance party.
The festival is one of the largest live music events in country music. Each year the festival gathers thousands. This year alone, an estimated 750,000 people are expected to attend over the weekend.
HOW TO SURVIVE HARDLY STRICTLY:
Avoid parking With so many people attending, it’s encouraged to avoid parking if possible. Instead you might want to walk, bike, ride the bus or carpool with friends.
Get a schedule Don’t miss out on catching the artists that you want to see. Download the mobile schedule or keep a pamphlet with you to check the times and locations of an artists’ set.
Keep hydrated Standing under the sun for hours in large crowds can be overwhelming, especially if you’ve been drinking. Make sure to keep hydrated and take breaks under some shade when needed.
Take a backpack Carry a bag with you and pack whatever supplies you might need, portable charger, blanket, hand sanitizer, Tylenol, etc. Attending a music festival can be somewhat of a mission and you never know what might happen.
Bring your own food and drinks Although there is food and drinks available at the park, you can always save some cash by just bringing your own.
Put your phone on batter save mode Being amongst a large crowd can drain your phone battery. Put it on save mode and avoid getting stuck without a phone.
Dress comfortably Prepare for a lot of walking, sitting, standing and dancing. So wear the right shoes, bring a sweater, some sunglasses and maybe a hat.