5 Things to Bring to an Outdoor Concert

Summer is here, and in the Midwest, we like to take full advantage of the few months a year we get to be outside without freezing our hind-ends off. A big part of that is our outdoor shows. In our area, that means Moon Tunes, Great River Sound, the Altra Rocks Summer Concert Series, and Rock Fest!
But an outdoor show takes a little preparation. so with that in mind, here’s 5 things you should bring to every outdoor event.

Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Check the weather forecast before heading out and dress accordingly. Bring layers if it might get cool in the evening or rain gear if there’s a chance of showers. Proper footwear is also a MUST. Apart from any jumping and dancing you’ll be doing, bigger events will have you covering a lot of ground just walking.

Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the sun by bringing sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. Even if it’s a cloudy day, UV rays can still penetrate through. This is especially important if you’re bald like me.

Portable Seating or Blanket: Most outdoor concerts involve sitting on the ground or bringing your own chair. A lightweight, portable chair or a comfortable blanket can make a big difference.

Hydration and Snacks: Stay hydrated throughout the event by bringing a refillable water bottle. Packing some snacks like granola bars, fruits, or nuts will keep your energy up during the concert. Food and water sold at outdoor events can sometimes be outlandishly priced. Just Google “Woodstock 99” to see how that can make things go south quickly.

Portable Charger: Don’t let a dead phone battery ruin your experience. Bring a portable charger to keep your phone powered up so you can capture memories, stay connected, and navigate your way home after the concert. This also makes for a good safety precaution at bigger events. You don’t want a dead battery to get between you and reconnecting with friends, especially when alcohol is involved.