Introduction to festivals

As the days stretch longer and the sun paints the sky with pink and gold, it’s official. Summer is upon us, bringing with it warmth and possibility. For many, summer is filled with festivals, vibrant gatherings where music, culture and community collide to create unforgettable moments. From sprawling fields of rural farmland to major city streets, festivals offer another source of enjoyment as one looks for new memories to make.

At the center of this summer festival circuit lies Lollapalooza, a cornerstone of Chicago’s cultural landscape and a place for music lovers to come from all over the world and enjoy a wide range of artists, music and community. Yet, while Lollapalooza may be one of the largest festivals, with nearly 100,000 attendees each day, its offering of music and charisma isn’t what you would get from other festivals.

What to be aware of

Having attended Lollapalooza for the first time last year, I can attest to the energy at the festival. From navigating the lineup to mastering the art of so-called festival survival, here’s a comprehensive guide I think everyone will find useful to ensure a safe and enjoyable festival experience. 

For those embarking on their first festival(s) this summer, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. First and foremost, come prepared. From sunscreen and comfortable shoes to a refillable water bottle and a portable phone charger, the key to getting through a festival is being ready for anything.

With each festival featuring a diverse array of artists spanning almost every genre imaginable, there’s something for everyone to enjoy each day of no matter where you decide to go. One thing I think is important about for Lollapalooza in particular is ensuring you explore new sounds and artists in the festival. Last year, I went into the festival planning on attending Carly Rae Jepsen’s show, not insanely familiar with her discography by any means. That being said, after the show, I fell in love with her music. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve listened to her albums “Emotion,” “Emotion Side-B,” and “The Loveliest Time” since. 

Extra important tips

Depending on the number of days you plan on attending, I beg of you, do not forget to take care of yourself during each show. Stay hydrated, nourished and well-rested so you can fully enjoy the festivities without burning out or passing out. Take breaks when needed, and seek shade during the day in-between shows. Festivals can be overwhelming, but remember it’s a marathon, not a sprint. So, listen to your body and prioritize yourself above all else.

Know your limits. The exhaustion and dehydration hadn’t caught up with me until around the end of the second when I pushed myself too hard during The 1975’s show. Me and my friends were insanely close to the barricade, and the feeling of not being able to move was very overwhelming paired with the dehydration and the anticipation of the L-train ride home after made me feel like at any moment I could pass out. I say this not to scare anyone out of festivals, just know your limits is all I can say.

Miscellaneous information

Focusing more on this year, I am only going to be attending two of the four days. Out of all the artists that are showing out, There were only a few that interested me and quite a few that made me reconsider if this year was going to be worth it. There are also quite a few artists I’m excited to see that I haven’t listened to before. I’m hoping to experience the festival effect again (falling in love with an unfamiliar artist during a show).

Another thing to be sure of is that you have enough storage space on your phone. The amount of videos and photos you will be taking may vary on the number of artists you see and days you attend. However, after four days last year and seeing around 10 different artists, I had added nearly 1,000 new photos and videos onto my phone.

Festivals are about more than just the music, they’re about creating lasting memories, creating new connections, and celebrating life to the fullest. So embrace the festival spirit, soak in the sounds, and let yourself be swept away by the magic of summer and music.

Ranking of Lollapalooza Headliners

1. SZA

I’m most excited to see SZA because her album “CTRL” has been a constant comfort of mine, and I’ve enjoyed almost everything she’s put out since. I’ve watched clips of her performances online, and she always delivers an incredible show. 

2. Tyler, the Creator 

Although I won’t be attending his day, Tyler, the Creator performances are legendary. While I might not buy a ticket just for him, seeing him at a festival would be a luxury. Knowing festivals don’t tend to bring back the same artists multiple years in a row, I’m sad I’m missing this opportunity to see him.

3. The Killers

What can I say, I love bands. And when those bands have hits that I grew up listening to in the car, how can I not be excited to see them? I’m not too familiar with their discography or their dynamic as a group, but I’ve heard they know how to put on a show, and am considering seeing them or Future X Metro Boomin.

4. Future X Metro Boomin

An astounding duo who know how to engage with a crowd. I’ve given their latest album they released this year a listen once, and there are definitely some standouts that I wish could see from prior works and this year. As of right now, it’s still up in the air who I’ll see, The Killers or Future X Metro Boomin.

5. Blink-182

While I’ve heard most of their hits, I’m indifferent about seeing Blink-182 perform. I do enjoy bands, but I’m not disappointed that I’m missing out on the day they’re performing, they’ve never stood out to me.

6. Hozier 

Hozier is one of those artists that I don’t understand listening to. Every single one of his songs is inescabalbe. Whether you’re at the grocery store, scrolling through social media, or turning on the radio in your car, he’s going to be there, waiting. I’ve had my time with him, and I don’t enjoy his voice.

7. Stray Kids 

I did say that I’m a sucker for bands, but not when I feel like they’re contributing to the downfall of an amazing genre that is K-pop. There are plenty of other major K-pop groups that I would’ve enjoyed seeing instead. That being said, I’m excited that festivals are recognizing K-pop as a genre now. This is the third time a K-pop act has headlined Lollapalooza in it’s time since 1991.

8. Melanie Martinez 

At the bottom of my list is Melanie Martinez, whose music and disturbing persona doesn’t resonate with me. I find her music unbearable, and there isn’t anything that compels me about her as an artist. I’m completely okay missing her set on Sunday.