Surviving Summer Music Festivals

I just spent my weekend sandwiched between city blocks and strangers, scattering back and forth between stages at a very well-attended music festival in a two-square-block area of Seattle. On the first day, expecting warm sun, I came in a t-shirt and jeans, flip flops, sunglasses, and a backpack. Things I forgot: water, sunblock, a hat, comfortable shoes...I was ready to be done with the whole thing by dinner time, despite the wealth of great music.

Of course, had I checked up on About.com World Music's How to Make the Most Out of a Music Festival, I may have thought of a few issues ahead of time. Now, this was hardly my first festival. Considering how many I've been to, I figured if I could stand to learn a few things about how to optimize my festival experience, it couldn't hurt to share that info with you guys, too.

I know two of the summer's largest folk festivals (Kerrville and Falcon Ridge), and many of the summer's smaller festivals, have already come and gone. But, there's still plenty of festival season left to take advantage of. I know, after this past weekend's experience, I'll be checking that guide again before I head to Pickathon this weekend.

More on Music Festivals...

What to Bring to Music Festivals

How to Make the Most Out of a Music Festival

Summer Hotspots for Folk Music Fans