Imagine this: you’re at your favorite artist’s concert, having the time of your life. You’re singing, dancing, and soaking in every moment, but just as the most talked about part of the show is about to take place, your excitement immediately disappears when a giant sign pops up in front of you, completely blocking your view of the stage.
Concerts are supposed to be a fun occasion for everyone, so don’t be that person everyone hates by ruining the experience for others. Instead, help improve others’ experience by following a few of these tips below.
Do’s
Talk to People
Talking to other fans can make the experience more fun because you can share your excitement, favorite songs, or even previous concert stories. You might even make some new friends who love music as much as you do! Plus, concerts are always better when you can share the moment with others, whether it’s singing along together or freaking out over a special segment of the show.
MECA senior, Sophia Limon, agrees, explaining how experiences can be enhanced by talking to people.
“Try to make friends because at the end of the day everyone’s just a fan, everyone’s there to enjoy the same music,” said Limon.
Try to Get to the Venue Early
Arriving early makes it easier to find parking and get through security without feeling rushed. You might even have time to take pictures with cool backdrops or signs outside the venue, and some fans hand out freebies like stickers or bracelets. If you get there with extra time, you can also grab a bite to eat so you’re not hungry during the show. Avoid the stress of waiting in long lines when the show’s about to start. You don’t want to miss any minute of the concert!
Stay Hydrated
In a hot or crowded venue, it’s important to drink water so you don’t start feeling dizzy or sick and that your throat isn’t dry after all the cheering. The last thing you want is to pass out and miss part of the concert or lose your voice in the middle of it. Staying hydrated will help you enjoy the whole show without feeling tired or uncomfortable.
If the venue allows, bring a water bottle or take a break to grab a drink before the concert starts. You’ll have way more fun if you feel good the whole time and not on the verge of dehydration.
Use the Restroom Before the Concert Starts
During small breaks or intermissions, the majority of people rush to the restroom, which means super long lines. You might not make it back in time and could miss some of the best moments of the concert, or you could even hurt yourself running back to your seat.
Good Hygiene
No one wants to be stuck next to a smelly person at a concert, especially in General Admission (GA), where people are usually packed close together. Some artists have even called out fans for bad hygiene, and that’s not the kind of attention you want. It’s a good idea to bring small toiletries like deodorant, body wipes, or a mini perfume to stay fresh. Keeping yourself clean and smelling good makes the experience better for you and everyone around you.
Get Ready the Day/Night Before
Concert days are usually chaotic, so planning ahead can make things a lot easier. Pick out your outfit, pack your concert bag, and make sure you have everything you need the night before. This way, you won’t be rushing around last minute trying to find your tickets, charger/battery packs, or favorite accessories. Also remember to clear the storage on your phone. Nothing is more annoying than running out of storage while recording a good set. Being prepared will help you stay calm and focused so you can enjoy the concert without any unnecessary stress.
Dress up and Express Yourself
Wearing an eye-catching or creative outfit is fun, and it might even get you noticed by the artist or earn you compliments from other fans.
“I know a lot of people sometimes don’t dress up but the whole point of a concert, I feel like, is to dress up for whoever you’re seeing, like how people dress up for Sabrina [Carpenter],” said Sadie McBean, a senior at MECA. “You’re just supposed to dress up, that’s what makes it fun.”
Don’ts
Don’t Be That One Person
Concerts are all about having fun, but it’s also important to be mindful of the people around you. If most people in your section are standing up and dancing, then go ahead and join them! But if everyone is sitting, standing up might block someone’s view and ruin their experience. Always check what others around you are doing so you don’t accidentally become the person everyone is frustrated or annoyed with. Being respectful of your section helps ensure that everyone enjoys the concert equally.
Don’t Hold Up Posters/Signs at the Wrong Times
Holding up a poster is a great way to get noticed by your favorite artist, but it can also block people’s view of the stage. Some concerts have a specific time for fans to show off their signs, so it’s best to wait for that moment. If you’re sitting in the nosebleeds, holding up a poster for too long can upset the people behind you since they won’t be able to see. This can lead to arguments or even fights.
Don’t Push People
If you’re in the General Admission setting or the pit, it’s important to be careful and respectful of the crowd. Pushing others to get closer to the stage can be dangerous because people can trip, fall, or even get seriously injured. Some artists will stop the show if things get out of control, which can delay the concert for everyone. Instead of shoving your way through, try to move around carefully and be mindful of the people around you. No one wants their concert experience ruined because of unnecessary pushing and chaos.
Don’t Be Tall and Wear Heels or Big Hats
This one’s for the taller fans, while you can wear whatever you like, big heels or huge hats can make it even harder for shorter people to see the stage, especially in the pit. It’s annoying for fans who have been looking forward to the concert, only to spend the whole night staring at the back of someone’s head. Be mindful and aware of shorter fans who might be stationed around you.
Don’t Throw Things on Stage
Unless the artist specifically says it’s okay, never throw things on stage. While fans might do it to get attention or give gifts, objects can hit and seriously hurt the performer. No one wants to be remembered as the fan who injured their favorite singer. Plus, venues take this seriously, and you could get kicked out of the concert. If you want to give something to the artist, look for official ways to do so, like designated gift areas or fan events.
Don’t Write Inappropriate or Disrespectful Things on Signs/Posters
It might seem funny to write a joke or something bold on a concert sign, but remember that these artists are not your close friends. What you think is harmless could actually come off as disrespectful or offensive. Some artists might ignore it, but others could feel uncomfortable or even call it out in front of everyone. If you’re bringing a sign, keep it positive and supportive, something that will make the artist smile, not cringe.
Don’t Hold Up Your Phone or Arms and Block People’s View
It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and want to record everything, but holding your phone or arms up for too long (or using one of those annoying selfie sticks) can block the view for people behind you. Your arm will probably get tired anyway, and you might end up missing the experience because you’re too focused on filming. Maybe try limiting your recording and put your phone down for a bit and actually enjoy the concert in real time.
“When I went to see Melanie Martinez’s Portals tour, there was this person who wouldn’t put down their arms.” Limon shared. “They were waving them all the time, every video I got they were blocking [my view] and that [annoyed] me so bad. It’s just like bro, concert etiquette.”
Ultimately, concerts shouldn’t be someone’s negative experience. They’re usually expensive and people pay to have a good time with their favorite artist. So don’t be the person who spoils others’ fun because you blocked their view or pushed the people next to you. Remember to be mindful of who you’re around to guarantee a great time for everybody.
