Festivals – What we Learned and What You Need to Know

Festivals – We learned a lot over the weekend and want you to know what to expect when attending these fun events.

Know Your Festival

Do your research! Know what to expect when attending the festival you have chosen. What types of things do you need to pack? Will there be events happening within the festival such as concerts, firework displays, or theatrical events. If so, do you need to bring a blanket or folding chair? This is important information. You want to be as prepared as possible.

Make Sure You Understand The Full Cost

This sounds simple enough, right? Well, it’s not as straightforward as it used to be. The latest trend is to have festivals within festivals. For example, a food festival of some sort may have a more exclusive selection of foods by upscale chefs within the main festival. So, what does this mean for you? That’s simple – an upcharge. These festivals within festivals are not free. There is an additional fee to attend these exclusive events. And, sometimes, these fees are quite high. Make sure you do your research.

That being said, if the festival within a festival is something you are truly interested in attending then bay all means go for it! Just don’t let the extra fee be a surprise.

What Does Admission Include?

Check out all the details. Know before you go. What exactly is included in your admission fee? This is important. The admission fee for most festivals is just that – admission only.

Parking

Paying for parking can come as a surprise fee for a lot of people, especially if you aren’t a frequent festival goer. Make sure you check into the parking situation. The going rate in our area is around $20. We have heard of much higher rates in larger areas. Be sure to check and budget for this fee.

Don’t Rule Out The Local Festivals

Just because you don’t think you will like a local festival because it’s small and free to attend, don’t rule it out. These little festivals can surprise you! Give them a chance. The worst case scenario would be that you spend a couple of hours outside in the fresh air with your neighbors.

We attended the Pirates of the High Seas and Renaissance Fest over the weekend. Check out our latest YouTube video for more on that. Festivals – What we Learned and What You Need to Know.

Want more information on saving money on domestic travel for festivals? Check out our post How to Save Money When Traveling Domestically.