How to Choose a Location for a Rave

Location, location, location. This adage is true not only in real estate but also in party planning. Here are things to consider when selecting the location of your rave.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Start early. Be sure to plan, scout and secure a party location 1 to 2 months in advance. If you do not have a site, there can not be a party. Also, the location will impact the planning of advertisement, set-up/clean-up, audiovisual needs and other party elements.
2. Get organized. Assemble a team responsible for all location-related tasks that will arise before, during, and after the rave. Create a checklist to guide your activities. There should be one person who provides direction to and receives reports from other team members. This person can also serve liaison to a point of contact at the location.
3. Consider your budget. Securing a space can be your largest party expense. However, leverage your resources to find something affordable. A bar or club may be willing to give you free or discounted space on a particularly slow night as long as it makes all alcohol sells. You or a friend may live in a loft or studio that could be an inexpensive party location. Raves can be held in a variety of venues including open fields, wooded areas, rooftops, warehouses, garages and barns. Be creative in your location selection.
4. Identify what you need in the space. You want an accessible space that is safe, well-ventilated, and appropriate to the size of the party. There should be an adequate dance floor/area and room for your DJ's, live bands and a bar. Make sure that the space will accommodate your use of audiovisual equipment. Determine whether you will be able to plug-in multiple pieces of equipment without blowing out the electrical system. For partygoers wanting to sit and talk, there should be a separate area with quieter music. Consider having an ambient room for those in need of rest and attention due to drug/alcohol use, dehydration and exhaustion. Check for adequate restrooms and a place for coats.
5. Understand and adhere to the rules that limit your use of the space. If you intend to use a fog machine, check whether you can disable the fire alarm. Consider dark curtains, blackened windows and sound-proofing to keep the lights and sounds of the rave within the space. Determine permissible parking and smoking areas, noise levels and other issues which may be problematic for neighboring residents and businesses. By proactively addressing these concerns, you decrease the possibility of your party being interrupted by a call to the police.
6. Leave the space as you found it. If you moved furniture or anything else, put everything back where it belongs. Clean up all trash. You may also need to clean restrooms, the immediate exterior of the building, etc. Before the party, determine the degree to which you should clean and any other expectations attached to your use of the location.

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