Attend a live music festival with a string budget.
Tips to Attend a Live Music Festival on a String Budget
Attending a bluegrass festival on a tight budget is definitely doable! Here’s a breakdown of strategies to help you enjoy the music without breaking the bank:
Ticket Strategies:
- Early Bird Deals:
Finding early bird ticket pricing involves being proactive and utilizing various resources.1 If possible, purchase tickets well in advance. Many festivals offer discounted “early bird” pricing. So you may ask yourself, how do I find these “early bird” deals? It’s easy. You probably see these early bird deals almost daily for numerous events and not think twice about it. Let’s break it down:
Direct from Event Organizers:
Most of your event organizers will have an official website set up for the event and its promotion. Here are some strategies to get your discounted tickets.
- Official Websites:
Most of your event organizers will have an official website and is the most reliable source of the event or festival. Look for a “Tickets” or “Registration” button or section to proceed with your discounted ticket purchase. Many event websites will prominently display early bird pricing and deadlines.
- Email Newsletters:
Sign up for email newsletters from event organizers or venues. They often announce early bird deals to their subscribers first. If you don’t have email (many folks don’t!), opt in for the snail mail method. You will still get a notification of discounts prior to the rest of the world. Sign up for BIg Bend Bluegrass Association newsletter and receive festival news and early bird discounts.
- Social Media:
Follow event organizers on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. They frequently post updates about ticket sales and promotions.
- Volunteer:
Volunteers are valuable and most events will be seeking additional volunteers! Some festivals offer free or reduced admission in exchange for volunteer work. This can be a great way to experience the festival from a unique perspective. You may even get the chance to meet and greet the hired entertainment up close!
- Look for Smaller, Local Festivals:
Large, well-known festivals often come with hefty price tags. Seek out smaller, regional bluegrass festivals. The Annual Big Bend Bluegrass Festival is a smaller intimate festival that folks love to attend and is indoors! These tend to be more affordable.
- Check for Single-Day Tickets:
If a multi-day pass is too expensive, consider purchasing a single-day ticket to catch your favorite performers.
Accommodation Savings:
- Camping:
If a festival does offer camping, this is usually the most budget-friendly option. Pack your own tent and supplies. RV or campgrounds will have electrical hookups, laundry facilities and other activities at the park. Some parks will offer discounts for a multiple day stay. There are opportunities to stay at RV parks for free if the park is seeking help. Many die hard bluegrass festival goers are retired and fans of entertainers they love to follow.
- Share Accommodation:
If camping isn’t your thing, split the cost of a hotel room or Airbnb with friends. If you’re thinking of attending the 4th Annual Big Bend Bluegrass Festival in Alpine, Tx.; Bienvenido Big Bend offers a discounted stay for the festival. Alpine Bed & Breakfast is a wonderful Airbnd offering a discount through their website. Parker Hotel is the host hotel for the event and offers a discounted stay as well. Another quaint accommodation with a beautiful courtyard perfect for a group to jam in is the Alpine Country Club.
- Stay Further Away:
Accommodations closer to the festival grounds are typically more expensive. Consider staying a bit further away and driving or using public transportation. Check festival websites to see if there are host hotels or other businesses offering discounts for the event.
Food and Drink on a Budget:
- Bring Your Own Food and Drinks:
Pack a cooler with your own food and beverages. This will save you a significant amount of money on overpriced festival food. Check the festival’s rules regarding outside food and drinks. If you’re camping, bring a portable stove and cook your own meals.
Many festivals offer free water refill stations. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Alcoholic beverages at festivals are often expensive. Consider limiting your intake or bringing your own (if permitted).
Transportation Tips:
- Carpool:
Share a ride with friends to save on gas and parking costs.
- Use Public Transportation:
If available, utilize public transportation to get to the festival.
- Walk or Bike:
If your accommodation is within walking or biking distance, take advantage of this free and healthy option.
Other Budget-Friendly Tips:
- Pack Essentials:
Bring everything you need, such as sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes, to avoid having to purchase them at inflated festival prices if the festival is outdoors. Bring your own favorite chair if the festival allows this to save on a chair rental if you don’t want to sit on the ground.
- Limit Souvenir Purchases:
Resist the urge to buy expensive souvenirs.
- Enjoy the Free Activities:
Many festivals offer free activities, such as jam sessions and workshops. Take advantage of these opportunities.
By planning ahead and being mindful of your spending, you can have a fantastic time at a bluegrass festival without draining your wallet. Lastly, enjoy the magic of a live bluegrass music festival!