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Fall concert szn is *officially* in full swing! Sabrina Carpenter to Gracie Abrams to Billie Eilish to T-Swift, so many of our faves are on tour. And whether you're heading out to your first show of the year or your first one ever, it's super important to know the ins and outs of concert etiquette. Not exactly sure what that is? We've got you covered with these simple do's and don't's so all you have to worry about is enjoying the show. 

Do: Plan *everything* ahead (yes, including your outfit)

@stephbohrer

Plan, plan, plan! As soon as those tix hit your digital wallet, start pulling together concert fits for your and besties, a route to the venue and accommodations if you're heading out of town. Getting to a show totally ready to go and on time can be stressful, but by planning ahead, you'll be sure to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions, arguments with your concert crew and unnecessary stress on the night of. 

Do: Read up on the venue's rules (and follow 'em)

@thegarden by @pdbym

Every concert venue has different rules and regulations to follow, which is why it's *super* important to read up on them well before you go. You should be aware of specifics, like what kind of bag you're allowed to bring in (some only let you carry clear bags) and whether you can have outdoor food or water bottles. 

It may make the difference between enjoying everything about the night and getting super upset because your fave tote bag and emotional support water bottle were confiscated by venue staffers. So just be sure you check all the boxes before you head out the door. 

Do: Stay calm, cool & collected

@honeymoon

Concerts can be *super* overwhelming. The merch lines may wrap around the venue, the music might get too loud for your liking, the lights may be too bright and maybe your seat neighbor is not the nicest human being or the fans in the pit are a little too pushy. When faced with these obstacles, it's important to take a deep breath, stay calm and refrain from totally freaking out or fighting back.

Is the merch line mega long? Get there early and be patient, remembering that everyone is there for the same reasons (that's to enjoy your fave artist and have a great time, ofc!). Strike up a convo with the people standing in line with you. Better to bond over the crazy wait time than stew in silence. 

Is the atmosphere a bit anxiety-inducing? Bring some earplugs to pop in, or take a bathroom break during some of the songs you and your besties don't totally vibe with to re-center yourselves. And, if anyone is making you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, don't hesitate to ask a nearby usher or security guard for assistance! After all, they're there to ensure everyone is safe and having fun, and they'll be happy to help you out. 

Don't: Try to meet the band

@lea

Have an official backstage pass or a meet-and-greet with the band? Then by all means, hang with them. But if you and your friends purposefully wait in the lobby of their hotel, or by their tour bus, or stand at a backstage door just hoping to snag a selfie with the lead singer, then you're probably just going to annoy them. Why? Because it can be a serious invasion of privacy. And even if the musician snaps that photo with you, they're probably not so cool with you just showing up out of nowhere. So show some respect and show them love from afar. 

Don't: Push & shove fellow fans

@oliviarodrigo

When there are thousands of fans crammed into one stadium, it's tough to find any personal space. And in crowded sitches, it can be natural to get annoyed by people creeping into your personal space. Here, patience is key. If fans are taking pictures and blocking the path to your seats, just wait for them to finish up and be sure to say "excuse me" to get past them. Kindness and patience goes both ways, and you wouldn't want someone to interrupt you and your besties' concert photo op by shoving past you (and we wouldn't either). 

And if you find yourself in "the pit" (the section that is closest to the stage and does not have seats), don't push or shove to get to the front of the stage. Be mindful of the fans who may have gotten there before you or those who need to be at the front in order to have an unrestricted view, is much more important. Just remember that you don't need to be front and center in the pit in order to have fun at a concert. Any seat is a good seat!

Don't: Cut lines 

@itssophiemilner

This one is a *major* concert faux pas and one you def don't want to commit. Lines for merch can be super long. The wait can last for a couple of hours and sometimes these lines can wrap around the arena or be split into different sections. If you’re unsure where a line starts or ends, ask a fellow fan instead of accidentally cutting in front of one.

Just be sure to "treat people with kindness" (like Harry Styles says) and you'll have a perf concert experience (in the merch line, in the pit or cheering from the stands)!

Looking for more concert content? Check out our TikTok @girlslifemag!

Slider image: @sydneyyyhull
Top image: @oliviarodrigo

by Felicia Bono | 10/27/2024