When planning to attend a festival, there’s much more to think about than simply purchasing your tickets. Celebrations are planned across the world for a variety of different reasons. The festival could be for spectators or participatory. It could be based around music, a specific date or observance, lifestyles, or simply festivals that are intended for the entire family to enjoy. Regardless of what type of festival you choose to attend, there are several things to keep in mind before spending your money and purchasing the ticket.
The history of festivals began in the early 1800s as a celebration to worship specific religions that the individuals followed. From there, things have changed vastly, from ticket prices to outfits and everything in between.
What’s Your Budget?
Picture this – your best friends tell you about a new music festival they’d like to attend. All your favorite bands will be there, and you can’t wait to kick back with your friends and enjoy. Before you commit, decide what your overall budget is to attend the event. Consider aspects such as ticket cost, travel, festival outfits, hotels, parking, food, and gas, among others. Breaking down the amount you are comfortable spending helps you plan for the event and allows you to prepare appropriately.
● Tickets
- Most festivals will require an entry ticket. For example, tickets to Coachella, a famous multi-day music festival held in Indio, California, start at $449 and can go up to over $1,000. This cost does not include tax or other fees that may be added at purchase. Also, some festivals are several days long or even up to a whole week, requiring you to purchase packages or multiple tickets. Take a look at the details and see if you’re interested in attending each day. For example, if you’re planning to check out a music festival, pick the top bands you can’t miss and skip the other days.
● Travel
- Take a look at the location(s) of the festival you’d like to attend. Is it local enough that you will be able to drive? If you’re driving, think about the cost of gas and the wear and tear of the vehicle. If it’s not close enough to drive, you’ll need to research and compare flight costs to your destination. Don’t forget to include the cost to check your bag! If you are flying to your destination, you’ll need to find a means of transportation, which may be a rental car. Look at rates for different rental car companies to ensure you’re getting the best bang for your buck.
● Festival Outfits
- Half of the fun of attending a festival is planning out the perfect festival outfits. Do some research on the festival before purchasing tickets to see what types of festival outfits are typical. Some festivals are more theme or costume based, while others have an open, free-spirit vibe. Some of the top trends for festival outfits are boho-style two-piece outfits, athleisure, mesh, and neon colors. Florals, holographic clothing, pleather-type pieces, and bell sleeves are back and all the rage. Shoes are another important piece of your festival outfits, and with most festivals being held outdoors, try to plan for something comfortable. Before purchasing any clothes, check the weather for your destination to make sure you are dressing appropriately. For women, check festival regulations prior to attending to see if there are any regulations for what size of purse you’re allowed to bring into the event area.
● Hotels
- If you are traveling a long distance to attend a festival, you will likely need a hotel or Airbnb to stay at. This cost can add up quickly, especially if the celebration you are attending is multiple days. Contact the festival to see if they have any special arrangements or discounts set up with area hotels to try and save a few bucks before booking. Check the surrounding area to ensure wherever your lodging is located in a safe and secure location.
● Other Extras
- There are several other factors that may seem small but can really add up quickly if not accounted for. Prepare to pay for expenses such as parking, gas, food, drinks, and more. Check to see if you can bring your own food and beverages into the event area. Food at special events is costly, so this is another saving opportunity. Again, if the festival you are planning to attend is multiple days, these costs will add up even faster.
Festivals are an incredible way to spend time with friends and make memories you’ll never forget, but be sure to discuss these costs with your group beforehand. Finding flights, rental vehicles, and hotels that are in a price range everyone feels comfortable with will make your trip much more fun, not having to sweat the small stuff in the process!