Concert season is about to begin and it’s time to brush up on the spoken and unspoken rules of concert etiquette. Here are 11 tips to avoid becoming “that guy” at your next event. You know exactly who we’re talking about…
Underestimating travel time
We all know that Trimet can be unpredictable sometimes, so if you’re taking public transportation to the Chelsea Wolfe show, make sure you leave 10–15 minutes earlier than normal. If you’re taking an Uber or Lyft to an event, leave twice as early.
Speaking of Uber and Lyft…
Once the event is over, try to walk two-to-four blocks away from the concert venue in order to avoid those pesky prime time fees!
Will call holdups
If you have tickets waiting at will call, please put down your phone and put out your joint before you get to the window. The poor soul in the ticket booth just wants to help everyone as quickly as they can. Besides, the faster you get your ticket, the faster you get in!
Pushing to the front
If you arrive to the show late, especially with a group, don’t try to push your way to the front. Not only is it super disruptive, but it’ll upset all the people around you who got there early so they could be up front. I can promise that the music is just as awesome in the back!
Dancing and personal space
If you want to dance, please do! However, keep in mind that the people around you might not share your enthusiasm. Also, it’s always important to ask someone if they’re comfortable dancing with you instead of assuming so.
Holding your liquor
This is an important piece of advice, literally and figuratively. I’ve had many an alcoholic beverage spilled on me at shows, and it never gets less annoying. Make sure that if you’ve got a drink in your hand, you’re able to hold it steadily. If you start to feel sick, try to make it safely to the nearest bathroom or ask the venue’s bartender to call you a ride home.
Tall vs. short
If you get to a show late and you’re particularly tall, try not to purposely stand in front of someone who is significantly shorter than you. The concert floor is fair game before the show begins, but after that it’s good to let everyone else have the same opportunity to see the band.
Talking
For the love of Elliott Smith, please try not to talk during an acoustic performance. If it’s a heavier show, a little talking won’t hurt anyone. However, if you’re at an acoustic show, try and save the talking for after the set. Every whisper counts.
Turning your flash off
It’d be crazy for me to tell someone to never use their phone. Hell, I’ve wanted to take pictures at most shows I’ve been at. Be aware though, that some venues will eject you if they catch you using the flash on your camera, especially when the camera’s flash is distracting to the performers.
Buying merch
Never, ever, buy event merchandise before the show starts. You don’t want that vinyl copy of Kurt Vile’s new album to get destroyed, do you? There should be plenty of merchandise available when the show is over. Plus, you’ll be able to take home your new item without the worry of your hard-earned cash being wasted.
Be respectful
This is the most important rule of all. If someone doesn’t want you to buy them a drink, don’t. If someone seems too drunk, don’t try to flirt with them throughout the show. Remember, everyone is there to have fun and get home safely.