Hands down, 1996 was one of the most important time periods to all mankind.

It was the year Kevin Lyman started the largest travelling music festival, Vans Warped Tour, also known as the longest running music festival in North America. Each year, the Vans Warped Tour gets progressively bigger, bringing in more money for fundraisers and a platform for artists.

There are as many as 100 bands per show and nine stages, ultimately providing a variety of groups for concert goers to enjoy. Warped Tour will travel to Atlanta on July 2, at the Aaron’s Amphitheatre at Lakewood. The tickets can be purchased online, at store retailers and at the venue. But before attending Warped Tour for the first time or visiting again, it is good to know what you might experience.

The Night and Morning Before

Before the greatest day of the year, the adrenaline is rushing through your veins. You are excited to be surrounded by people who adore the same bands as you. But you’re also going to be surrounded by people under near 90 degree weather or a total pour out. The following tips will help you feel more comfortable in your surroundings:

1. Have a drawstring bag that contains sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, and a small snack.
2. Make sure your ticket is securely tucked away in your bag.
3. Set a budget for how much you  will spend and stick to it. The Warped Tour website has a tutorial on downloading an app that shows the merchandise being sold. This app even lets you make a wish list of the items you want, place an order before the show, and gives you a confirmation code. When you get to the show, you can pick up the merchandise.
4. Get at least seven hours of sleep.
5. Hydrate with a lot of water (don’t worry, you will sweat all of it out).
6. Charge your phone. I would advise purchasing a portable charger.
7. Download the Warped Tour app for keeping up with autograph sessions and when bands play.
8. Make sure you have directions to get to the venue.
9. In the morning, eat a healthy breakfast, gather all of your materials, and lather on the sunscreen.
10. The show still goes on, rain or shine, therefore dress according to the weather.

When You Get to the Venue

As a veteran Warped Tour concert goer for, I understand just how hectic the entire experience can be. From the long lines to upcoming bands pleading you to listen to their latest single, the morning is truly busy. I suggest getting to your venue at least two hours early in case you run into any problems. The doors open at 11a.m. and close at 9 p.m. Surviving that long of a day isn’t easy, so here are some tips to work through it:

1. If you want to skip the line, the Feed Our Children NOW campaign will accept donations of an old cellular device, $5 towards the youth program, or 3 canned goods. A “Skip the Line” wristband will then be presented once you donate.
2. Purchase a map for $3 that shows the area and stages.
3. If going with friends, it would be best to establish a meeting spot.
4. Check the Warped Tour app to check out when bands will be doing signings.
5. Stay hydrated and make sure you eat.
6. Turn your phone off during the set in order to conserve battery life.
7. If you are getting in a mosh pit or wall of death, make sure to be safe.
8. Make friends with the other concert goers. It will definitely go a long way.
9. Don’t stress if you miss seeing your favorite band.

If your parents will not budge about letting you go, inform them that Warped Tour allows parents in for free (but your parents must be older than 28). Hopefully you fully enjoy your Warped Tour experience.