Concert Etiquette

  

 Concerts 80% of the time tend to be really fun! (and sweaty). When I have the time to, I absolutely love going to support the multitude of bands that I listen to and just go all out at the general admission standing area. Personally the best part about enjoying lesser popular bands is that the tickets are almost always cheaper, and sometimes you even hang with them for a bit at the shop booth. However, there can be some "party poopers" in the crowd that can really just kill the mood sometimes, whether from their excessive smoking or really bad hygiene. I'd like to dedicate this week's blog to them and how you can do your best NOT being that person.

Smoking

First things first, let's discuss the smoking problem. Look, I get it, some individuals enjoy smoking or vaping during a show. If the concert is outside too then I probably wouldn't mind it as much. However, here's the thing: not everybody enjoys secondhand smoke, especially in a packed room. If you have to smoke, try your best to be considerate. Step off to the side if you can, or at least notice who's nearby. No one enjoys leaving a concert with the smell of an ashtray or having irritated eyes and lungs. Keep in mind that we're all there for the music, not to have a smoke-off.

Moshing

Let's discuss roughhousing and mosh pit rules. For those of us who enjoy heavier music, mosh pits are a great way to let energy out and relate to the music. But here's the golden rule: mosh pits are for fun, not for fighting. There's a huge difference between friendly pushing and shoving and actually trying to hurt someone. If someone does fall, pick them up immediately—it's not being polite, it's a matter of everyone's safety. And if you don't like moshing, stand around the edges of the pit or find a spot that's out of the way of the mayhem. All that everyone should be able to enjoy the show the way that they want to.

Hygiene

Lastly and most most importantly, personal hygiene. I'm not trying to shame people for a little bit of funk, it happens. but when you're going to be packed with a bunch of other people, showering real quick and putting on deodorant can make all the difference in making sure everyone else in your vicinity is comfortable. Nobody wants to share a seat with someone who has not showered in a day or two or is dressed in something that smells like last week's trip to the gym. It is not about being pristine, but rather being respectful to the people you're attending the concert with. Trust me, a little bit of extra effort goes a long way in regards to keeping an upbeat environment.

Attending concerts is all about enjoying good music alongside other music fans. By being considerate of others nearby and following some common-sense rules of etiquette, you can help make the experience enjoyable and memorable for everyone involved! Got another point about etiquette in concert that I might've missed? Let me know in the comments.