How to Enjoy a Rock Concert

You don’t have to be a teen or a die-hard fan to enjoy a rock concert. All you have to do is know how to find a band you like and know where to sit in order to best experience the music. From packed stadiums with pyrotechnics to intimate indie shows at coffee shops, there are many excellent ways to experience rock.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Driving directions
• Water
• Tickets well in advance
• ID
• Cash
• Earplugs

1. Find a show that’s up your alley. If you're looking for that nostalgic one-hit wonder band from the '80s or '90s, you might want to check out some state fairs and festivals to see if they are in the lineup. If you want to experience the avant-garde up-and-comers, look for some flyers posted around town. Popular bands often post dates on their Web sites and at ticket vendors.
2. Get your tickets as soon as possible. Rock concerts are known to sell out hours after the tickets go on sale, so find out when to buy and be ready. More low-key shows, on the other hand, usually take money at the door.
3. Find out where you’ll be sitting. General admission shows let you seat yourself and often have a standing area. If you want to get up close to the band, get there well before the door opens. If you’d rather be comfortable and not be assailed by mosh pits and flailing arms, try sitting in the front row of the balcony for a good view away from the chaos.
4. Find out directions. Some venues are tough to find, so call the promoter or look up the address on a map beforehand. Missing that great opening song could be devastating, so don’t be late.
5. Bring your ID. Not all shows are for all ages and if you want to drink, you’ll be hard pressed to find a bartender that won’t question your age.
6. Be safe and have fun. Keep track of your friends and family and leave any breakables or valuables at home or in the car.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring cash to buy tour merchandise. Few bands on the road have time to cash personal checks or scan credit cards.
• Take the show times with a grain of salt. Although it’s polite to be there for all the bands, local underground shows always start late and the opening band is usually nothing special.
• It can get hot in the pit, so drink some water and leave your sweatshirt in the car.
• Wear contacts instead of glasses. Glasses can get fogged up and knocked around in a crowd.
• Believe it or not, there is somewhat of a method to the madness of moshing. Don’t jump in and push people violently and throw punches. Move to the music, not your machismo.
• Wear earplugs to protect your hearing. Professional musicians do it, so it’s okay for you too.
• If you are under 18 or 21, find out what the age restrictions are before you buy your ticket or show up.