How to Plan a Weekend at Blackpool Rebellion

For ten years, the Wasted Festival dominated the UK punk scene, and fans were devastated when its closure was announced in 2006. Luckily, the Rebellion Festival rose from Wasted's ashes in 2007 to take its place at Blackpool's Winter Gardens. Over the four days of the festival, hundreds of bands play on four stages, alongside market stalls selling punk music and merchandise. As with any festival, a bit of planning can ensure that you have the best time possible.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Buy your ticket. There's a discount for booking early, so order your ticket as soon as you can. Check the official Rebellion website for details on how to pay.

2. Book some time off work. Rebellion is a four-day festival, and it's best to be there for the duration. You may also need some recovery time when the festival is over.

3. Arrange your accommodation. If you're planning to stay in a hotel, try to find one as close to the venue as possible. The Blackpool Tourist Board can help with your booking. If you prefer to camp, you can get full details of local camping sites and caravan parks on the Rebellion website or from the Blackpool Tourist Board.

4. Make your travel arrangements. A large number of people will be descending on Blackpool for the festival, so secure your seat on that plane, train or coach as early as possible. The closest train station is Blackpool North. Blackpool Airport is the closest airport, and Manchester Airport is only an hour away.

5. Check the Blackpool Rebellion website regularly for updated information and band announcements. While you're on the site, be sure to join the Forum to meet other festival-goers and hear the latest rumours.

6. Plan which bands to see. The confirmed band list on the Rebellion website includes links to band websites, so you can find out more about each one. Once the schedule is announced, usually in the weeks just before the festival, you can work out when your favourites are playing.

7. Pack your bag. Your mother might tell you to include sensible items, like comfortable shoes and earplugs, but you'll make better use of a leather jacket, big boots, ripped fishnets and hairspray (for that all-important Mohican). Don't forget to bring your camera and lots of cash for the bar and the market stalls.

Resources

• Visit the official Rebellion website.
• Rebellion has its own Myspace page.
• Find a hotel on Fyldecoast.com.
• Let the Blackpool Tourist Board book your accommodation for you.
• Find out more about Blackpool.