Surviving The Festival

As the festival season comes to a close with the largest Sacramento finale, the annual Radio 94.7 City of Trees at Papa Murphy’s Park, I look back on the year and think: “was I prepared at all of the shows I went to? Did I bring too much stuff? Did I forget something vital?” This my dear friend is why I want to create a list– a checklist if you will– for surviving this upcoming weekend’s City of Trees festival and festivals beyond.

• Check the weather. The day might be warm, but the delta breeze can definitely blow at night. Come prepared like Anna Rose (‘18). “Since most festivals go into nighttime, it’s always necessary to bring something that will keep you warm for the later shows.”

• Always have a portable charger. If you’re planning on being at the event from opening to close and want to Snap the whole thing, you’re going to need some extra battery. Sometimes you’ll be able to find outlets, but for convenience, grab something you could throw in a small backpack.

• Bring a CamelBak for water and to hold your charger and sunscreen. Make sure the bladder is empty before you get in the gates. Most festivals have water stations where you can refill and replenish. Make sure to stay hydrated!

• Do your homework and check set times before you get there. As my dad always says, “if you fail to plan, plan to fail.” Make sure you know when each band plays so you can get to the stage with time to spare.

• Bring a blanket because there is always grass to sit on. If you are going to make it all day long and there is only general admission, you’re going to need to rest and refuel. A blanket is also a great way to get a place to rest and stake out your spot. “During the festival [City of Trees Last Year] I had a blanket to sit on which was great because it saved a spot on the field and was nice to sit and relax instead of standing up the whole time,” said Evan Recanzone (‘19).

• Make sure you check the website for FAQs and a list of what you can and can not bring. Make sure what’s in your bag follows the rules so everything is smooth sailing once you get in. It would really stink if you showed up with a nice sandwich and you had to throw it out at the gate. 

• Make sure your tickets are legit. The worst feeling is buying a ticket off of Craigslist for a deal and then getting to the entrance and realizing you bought a fake ticket. Junior Gina Matista (‘19) can attest to this when she tried to buy tickets for an Ace of Spades show on Craigslist. “It was rude and it made me upset because I really was looking forward to going with my friends,” she said. Buy from the actual website and be smart when buying secondhand tickets.

And if you’re at City of Trees this weekend, come say hi! We can jam to some sweet tunes together.