Despite record-breaking temperatures, this summer’s heat has not stopped music lovers from going to concerts, even at outdoor venues. While personal safety is a factor at any concert or large gathering, normal concerns are amplified by the Texas heat.
But don’t worry — outdoor concert experiences don’t have to be burdened by sweat and stress. There are plenty of steps you can take to set yourself up for a good time.
First, hydration is key. Miles Bourgeois, sophomore engineering and physics double- major, recommended drinking more water than you think you need.
“Typically, the shows that I see have three bands playing, so I’ll drink another two cups before the first band, two cups between the first and second, and more between the second and third,” Bourgeois said.
Nathalia Fernandez, a junior neuroscience major, says to factor in the time you’ll be waiting outside into your hydration plans, especially if your ticket is for general admission. General admission tickets work on a first-come, first-served basis, wherein everyone pays the same amount for a ticket, and proximity to the stage is dictated by who’s first in line on the day of the show.
Fernandez says she usually waits around an hour in line when she has a general admission ticket. She tries to get near the part of the crowd where the most jumping and dancing happens, which is often referred to as a mosh pit.
“I like getting up to the front because if I’m going to pay to be in the pit, I want to be close to the front,” Fernandez said.
Another way to keep cool at concerts is to dress practically. With outdoor concerts, you have to consider not only the heat itself, but the fact that you must endure that heat for multiple hours around hundreds, if not thousands, of other individuals.
Bourgeois can attest to this importance after wearing a leather jacket to see the band The Warning this summer.
“That was a very poor decision, and I learned from that experience,” Bourgeois said, who has since swapped his long-sleeved look for a more practical denim vest.
Grace Le, sophomore neuroscience major, also recommends bringing things like cooling towels and fans since temperatures in Texas can linger in the 90s and 100s even after the sun goes down. She also recommends personal safety items, depending on what the venue allows.
“I would recommend looking at the website beforehand, but sometimes they will allow pepper spray or tasers,” Le said.
Le, Fernandez and Bourgeois all recommend going with a group, or at least with one other person, as another way to maximize your safety.
“Go with good friends because that makes the downtime while bands are going off the stage fun,” Bourgeois said.
Fernandez points out that when you’re in a group, needs like going to the bathroom or getting water won’t jeopardize your spot in the crowd.
“Just make sure you’re with other people and other people know where you are,” Fernendez said.
It doesn’t take many steps to prepare yourself to have the best time you can at a concert outdoors — you just need to be smart, practical and aware of your surroundings.
