Los Angeles is the home of pop-ups. Whether it’s for a brand you really like, a new movie coming out, or even an event happening right here at UCLA, they seem to be happening all the time. During my time at UCLA, I’ve attended quite a few music pop-ups, and I really enjoyed them. I’ve attended pop-ups for Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Olivia Rodrigo, and most recently, Billie Eilish‘s concert film for her Hit Me Hard and Soft tour. In this article, I’ll explore what it’s like to attend these pop-ups, how they create community among fans, and why they’re absolutely worth checking out.
Pop-ups are Free
One of the best things about artist pop-ups is that most of them are completely free to attend. In a city as expensive as LA, it can be hard to find activities that don’t require spending a lot of money. Pop-ups allow fans to engage with an artist’s world without needing to purchase a concert ticket.
A Great Opportunity to Meet Other Fans
Artist pop-ups create an inclusive space where fans can connect with others who share their interests. It gives fans a place to share their excitement in a judgment-free environment. Whether you’re attending alone or with friends, it’s easy to engage in conversations with people who are just as excited about the artist as you are.
They Have Unique Photo-ops
One thing artist pop-ups always do well is create immersive experiences. Many have themed rooms, decorations, photo booths, and displays inspired by the artist’s music or aesthetic. They make for some really fun photos and memories. For Harry Styles’ pop-up for his newest album, Kiss All the Time, Disco Occasionally, his entire shop was filled with cool photo opportunities. One of my favorite parts was a disco room, where you were allowed to bring in a digital camera and take photos. There was even a free photo booth!
Experiences like this are what make artist pop-ups so special. They allow fans to fully immerse themselves in the artist’s vision while also creating fun memories along the way.
Exclusive Merchandise and Freebies
Many artist pop-ups offer exclusive merchandise that can only be purchased at the event. Prices can vary, making merch accessible to fans with different budgets. Some pop-ups even give away free items, such as posters, stickers, photo cards, or other collectibles that fans can’t get anywhere else.
For example, at both Harry Styles’ and Billie Eilish’s pop-ups, there was merch available for under $10. Harry had an exclusive Kissco tote bag, while Billie was selling chocolates that were only available at the pop-up. This made it possible for fans to leave with something special without having to spend a lot of money.
At Olivia Rodrigo’s pop-up for her new single “drop dead,” she had a wall of gum where fans could grab a free Olivia Rodrigo-themed Hubba Bubba gum. She was also giving away free posters, which made the experience even more exciting. These little freebies may seem small, but they make fans feel like they are getting something unique that they can’t find anywhere else.
You Never Know Who You Might See
One of the most exciting parts of attending a pop-up is the possibility of seeing the artist. While it’s very rare, artists occasionally make surprise appearances at their own events, creating unforgettable moments for fans. For example, Billie Eilish surprised fans when she showed up to her pop-up at Century City Mall. While there is never a guarantee that an artist will show up, the possibility alone adds another layer of excitement and anticipation to the experience.
Things to Be Aware Of Before Attending
While artist pop-ups are a lot of fun, there are a few things to keep in mind before showing up. The first is that you will most likely be waiting in a long line, and in LA, that often means standing outside in either the hot sun or the rain for an extended period of time. Make sure to dress comfortably, wear sunscreen or bring an umbrella, and bring water if possible. I would also highly recommend bringing a portable charger, since you’ll probably be taking photos and videos, as well as just using your phone throughout the experience.
Another thing to be aware of is that some of the most popular merchandise and experiences can sell out quickly. Whether it is limited-edition merch, freebies, or interactive experiences inside the pop-up, arriving later in the day may mean missing out on certain items. If there is something you really want, it’s usually worth arriving early.
Despite these small inconveniences, the overall experience is still worth it. A little planning can go a long way in making sure you get the most out of the event.
Hopefully, my experiences have inspired you to check out the next pop-up for one of your favorite artists. Go prepared, take some pictures, and don’t be afraid to meet new people. Whether you leave with exclusive merch, a freebie, or just some fun memories, artist pop-ups are an experience that is totally worth checking out.