Gig Going 101
Teen Spirit’s guide to gig etiquette. Our top tips and tricks to gig-go like a pro.
DO - Come prepared
Our 3 main pillars of gig preparedness are: 1) Buying presale tickets! It secures your cheap ticket early and supports the artist so they know people will show up. Slow ticket buying = higher chance of early show cancellations. 2) Charging up! A fully charged phone (or portable) = access to your cards, ID, camera, friends, and a safe ride home. 3) Bringing ear plugs. Protected ears = less risk of tinnitus and hearing loss by age 40!
DON’T - Miss The Opening Act
Imagine you bought a concert ticket to Olivia Rodrigo, rocked up to hear the first act, and then Chappell Roan walked out on stage. Well, that’s exactly what happened at the Guts world tour in 2024, just before Chappell got her huge break. On lineups, opening acts are chosen for a reason! If you like the headliner’s music, chances are, you’ll love the openers. Rocking up on time gives you more bang for your buck and helps you support local artists who may become your new favourites.
DO - Mosh Responsibly
You may have heard the term ‘mosh pit’ before; the area at the front of a stage where punters are encouraged to move, jump, dance - and in heavier pits, slam into each other. Moshing responsibly is about reading the room. If you’re at a calm indie show, use the pit to dance. If you’re at a rowdy punk show, match the energy of the room with your jumping and pushing. If you’re repeatedly knocking into someone, make sure they’re okay. If someone falls over, pick them up immediately. Happy days!
DON’T - Be ‘That’ Person
Remember to be respectful of the punters around you; everyone is there for a good time! If you’re talking loudly while a band is playing, rocking up late and pushing through the crowd to get to the front, or holding your phone up high and filming most of the set, heads up – you’re negatively affecting the experience of those around you. Be kind and treat other’s the way you want to be treated! (Pro tip: only film a song or two. It’s always better being in the moment)!
DO - Look Out For Each Other
A golden rule of going to gigs is to always look out for each other – even strangers. Gigs can be busy and overwhelming, where people can lose their friends, feel unwell or get uncomfortable. If you spot a mate or stranger in need of help; check up on them. If a serious situation develops, flag it with security or venue staff. Stay safe and have fun!
Don’t - Forget The Benefits!
Did you know going to live music gigs boosts feelings of self-worth by 25 per cent? That’s more than yoga or walking your dog! Concerts can be a great form of self-care and a way to release stress. Plus, dancing, singing and hanging out with mates are directly linked to feel-good chemicals like dopamine and oxytocin. If you need a reason to convince your parents to take you to a gig, show them this!
FESTIVAL TIPS!
DO: Establish A Meeting Point
Festivals can be very busy, and phone reception can be pretty spotty. When at a music fest with friends or family, a great idea is to choose a designated location to meet up if you get separated, or plan to meet up with people. Choose a specific food truck, or recognisable landmark – this way, you always have a fail-safe if the crowd gets too busy.
DON’T: Throw Things On Stage
We’re sure you’ve seen the bizarre videos of artists like Harry Styles pelted with an air-borne object launched from the crowd. You might want to share something special with the artist or band you love, but it rarely goes well if you throw it at them. Not only does it disrupt the performance and create a tense environment, but it’s dangerous to the people on stage, the crowd and crew.