Going to concerts and live performances is fun, but the concert experience can be intimidating or overwhelming for young audiences. As a teenager, you need to prepare ahead of time to ensure an enjoyable concert experience. By communicating with your parents and having a safety plan in place throughout the event, you are sure to have a great time at the concert.
Things you should know
Review the policies, rules and age restrictions of the performance venue before purchasing tickets.
Ask your parents for permission to arrange transportation to and from the performance venue.
Bring a charged cell phone and cash to the concert. Eat before the show or bring enough money for snacks and water.
Wear comfortable clothes and weather-appropriate shoes. Have fun and be safe!
Part I. Ticketing and Logistics
1. check that the concert venue is suitable for all ages.
Some venues, especially those serving alcohol, only allow guests over the age of 21. It’s a good idea to find out a venue’s age policy online or over the phone before planning to attend a concert. If you buy a ticket and are turned away at the door, you likely won’t get your money back.
2. Ask your parents for permission.
It’s a good idea to check with your parents before you buy a ticket to make sure they give you permission to go. Talk to your parents to determine how you will get to and from the concert and discuss ground rules for staying safe at the event.
3. Get a friend to go with you.
For your safety, it is best not to attend a concert alone. Find at least one friend to go to the concert with you and plan to pair up on the day of the event. If you can’t find a companion, consider posting on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to see if anyone else in your social network is interested.
4. Buy tickets.
If it’s a popular band’s concert, find out exactly when tickets go on sale and be prepared to buy them as soon as you can to make sure the show doesn’t sell out; Ticketmaster.com sells tickets for big shows, but if you’re going to a smaller show, check the venue’s website online to find out how to buy tickets. Once you’ve purchased your tickets, print them out and keep them in a safe place so you don’t lose them.
Make sure you can afford the tickets before you buy them. If you can’t afford them, ask your parents for a loan and then find a way to pay them back through extra chores or working outside the home.
Never assume that you can buy tickets at the door, as you run the risk of being turned away.
Avoid buying tickets from resellers online who will likely try to scam you.
5. Research venue policies and regulations.
Find the webpage of the venue and find out what is happening on the day of the show to avoid any hassles. Find out what time the doors open and if you can bring your own food/water. Make sure the venue is no older than 21 so you don’t risk being turned away at the door.
6. Coordinate transportation.
Plan how you will get to and from the concert venue. Ask your parents to give you a ride, or suggest carpooling if your friends are also going to the concert. If your parents are driving you, be sure to set up a pick-up time and location before the concert. If you can’t find a car, find a way to use public transportation [4].
7. Listen to the music.
If you don’t know all the bands that will be performing, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with their music ahead of time so that you can fully enjoy the concert.
Part II Attending a Concert
1. Prepare a small bag with essentials.
Bring a charged cell phone, cash (at least $20-$30), water bottle, sunscreen (if it’s an outdoor concert), earplugs, and snacks. Make sure you bring your tickets!
2. eat something before you go to the concert.
Concerts can be exhausting and the food sold at concert venues is often overpriced, so you’ll need to fuel up ahead of time to make sure you have enough energy to enjoy the concert to the fullest. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water.
3. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing.
Concerts are crowded and lively, so lightweight, loose-fitting clothing (such as shorts and t-shirts) is the best choice, and comfortable shoes are essential. For outdoor events, bring a hat for shade and a raincoat or poncho if there is a chance of rain. Be prepared for rowdy crowds, so don’t bring any expensive jewelry.
4. Arrive early. Arrive at least an hour early to ensure you can get into the venue, find your seat and settle in before the show starts. If your ticket is a standing room only ticket, you will have a better view the earlier you arrive. If you want to be near the front row at a large concert, consider arriving a few hours early.
5. Be aware of exit locations. In case of an emergency, you need to know where you can leave as quickly as possible. If you’re with friends, choose a landmark near an exit where you can meet up in case you get separated.
6. Stay hydrated.
Especially if the concert is outside, you’ll be hot and sweaty, and you’ll need to drink water to curb the risk of dehydration. Bring your own water bottle, or be prepared to purchase one at the event. Many outdoor event venues have hydration stations so you can continue to stay hydrated throughout the event.
7. Take breaks when necessary. If you feel tired of singing and dancing, don’t be afraid to take a break away from the crowd. Find a place to sit away from the crowd, cool off, and drink some water. You’ll enjoy the show more if you can take a break before you reach your limit.
8. Exit safely.
After a concert, people tend to leave the venue all at once. The rush can be overwhelming and sometimes unsafe. Stay with your partner and be careful not to fall. If you are afraid of crowds, consider skipping the encore and leaving a few minutes before the concert ends.
9. Relax after the concert. After a great concert, you may be both excited and exhausted. As soon as you get home, you should start relaxing in order to get some rest. Be sure to drink plenty of water and consider having a snack and/or watching TV to help relax.