It’s that time of the year where Slam Dunk returns to the streets of Leeds, Hatfield and Birmingham. With many bands and multiple stages, the day can become a bit long and exhausting. So whether this is your first or fifth time at the festival, below are some tips to help you get through the day.
1. PLAN AHEAD
For a festival with a lot of bands and 7 stages, there are obviously going to be clashes. Finding out on the day that your favourite bands Tonight Alive and Bowling For Soup are clashing is horrible, so it is always good to plan clashes ahead of time.
Band signings are also announced close to the festival, so make sure to check it out and fit any signings into your schedule. This will make your day more organised so you will have a better experience!
2. TAKE ENOUGH MONEY
One of the worst things is buying loads of merch and finding out you have no money left for any food. As food and drink are not allowed in the venue, make sure you bring enough money for the day for items such as food, merch and travel.
Also, be wary of pick-pockets and make sure to keep your money in a safe place and safe at all times. Last thing you want is to lose it in a mosh pit!
3. DON’T BE SCARED TO CHECK OUT NEW BANDS
Yes there are a large amount bands playing, but you won’t know all of them! There are times you may have a gap between bands so why not go check out an upcoming band on the Rocksound Breakout Stage or find your love for ska-punk on the Fireball Stage! Some of your new favourite bands can be found at Slam Dunk, just be willing to give them a chance.
4. STAY HYDRATED AND EAT
As stated previously, food and drink are not permitted into the venue , meaning you will have to buy inside. Drinks can be expensive so make sure to save some money for water or drinks throughout the festival. If the weather is hot it can be easy to get dehydrated so make sure to top up through the day.
Make sure to eat before the festival if you don’t want to buy lunch and make sure to eat and drink throughout the day to stop you becoming sick or dehydrated.
It is also key to make sure to stay hydrated when in big crowds, because who wants so spend their day in the medical room?
5. TRY TO GET THERE EARLY
This goes for both the opening and for the shows. Last year, there were issues with capacity, so if there is a band you REALLY REALLY want to see, make sure to get there a bit before their set to get a good spot and to endure you can get into the area!
A big tip for signings is to get there early. With a multitude of fans all wanting to meet the ame band in 30 minutes, not everyone may get seen so it is good to get there early to ensure you get to meet your idols.
Getting to the location before wristband collection early is also advised, as you can quickly pass through and get into the event as soon as it opens, instead of being stuck in a huge queue of eagar fans waiting for their wristbands.
Tickets for Hatfield (SOUTH) are sold out but a few tickets for Birmingham (MIDLANDS) and Leeds (NORTH) are avaliable at: http://slamdunkmusic.com/
Check out out other posts on slam dunk below!