5 tips for attending a music event

Wear appropriate clothing

The last thing that you want is for the night to be ruined because of uncomfortable clothing - nothing’s worse then getting blisters on your feet so you can’t dance! Avoid anything that is overly restrictive, bulky, or that poses a risk to other event-goers. Think about what the temperature will be and dress accordingly, so that you don’t end up freezing cold and not enjoying yourself. On the flip side, summer in Perth can reach scorching highs, so make sure that you wear light layers to avoid overheating and passing out, and think about sun protection if the event is outdoors. No good day ended with “and then I got heatstroke”.

Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of water before the music event, and once inside make sure that you keep it up to replenish the lost fluids from dancing and sweating. One of the most common conditions that first aid stations need to deal with at events is dehydration, and it’s really not a nice thing to experience so make sure that drinking water is a priority before and during the event. Similarly, have a meal about an hour beforehand so that you have plenty of energy.  

Don’t take valuables

While most people wouldn’t dream of stealing another person’s things, there are a few out there who are looking for an opportunity and ruining it for the rest of us. A music event that is crowded and loud can be an easy hunting ground for potential thieves, so avoid the possibility altogether and only bring the necessities with you. Keep bags close to your body and in front where you can see them, and don’t flash cash around - try to be subtle when pulling out your wallet. It may be worth considering having an emergency stash of cash somewhere hidden (for example in your shoe) so that if you do lose your wallet you have some money to pay for a taxi home.

Go with friends

Part of the fun is experiencing awesome live music with your friends, and this is also a great way to stay safe at an event. Pick a meeting point where you can regroup if anyone does get separated from the pack, and keep tabs on everyone so no one gets lost. While it’s fun to make new friends with people who share your taste in music, make sure that you stay with the people that you know.

Plan how you will get home

With everyone leaving at once at the end of the event it can be a little chaotic, so organise in advance how you will be getting home. If someone is picking you up suss out a meeting spot where they can easily collect you, but be aware that traffic can be hectic. For big events the organisers will sometimes arrange for public transport to be provided which can be a great way to avoid the traffic, but always travel with a friend and make sure that you know exactly how you will be getting home - it’s possible that you will need a lift or a taxi from where the bus or train drops you off, so plan this beforehand.   

Do not take or accept illegal substances

Drugs are illegal in Australia, including marijuana, so if you are caught with any drugs in your possession there are serious consequences. Aside from the legal ramifications there are massive safety risks when consuming any kind of drug, and it’s just not worth the risk. If anyone offers you drugs at a music event politely decline, and if they persist talk to a security guard. The health and wellbeing of event-goers is of the utmost importance, so anyone found to be disregarding the rules around substance abuse will be asked to leave.  

We are lucky to have some fantastic musical acts visit Perth, and there’s really nothing like seeing and hearing your favourite songs performed right in front of you. If you keep these tips in mind and adopt a safe attitude then you are guaranteed to have a memorable and enjoyable time.