So I’m going to a Canadian festival roughly modeled after Burning Man alone this week. I’ve never gone to something like this before, but expect to have a weird time (hopefully in a good sense).
Have you ever gone to something kinda like this (BM itself, a regional burn, outdoor multi-day music festival with that kind of vibe)? I’d love to hear people’s stories/hard-earned wisdom.
I’m literally taking a break from the sun, packing out from a regional burn at this very moment. So many incredible stories and incredible people. Lots of cool, kind people who are just excited to share something they’re excited about with others (especially at smaller events/regionals).
My hard earned wisdom is that you are not an audience member at a burn- you’re a participant, an integral part of the experience for everyone else, so don’t be afraid to talk to folks and to join in on whatever shenanigans are going down. Also, bring more sunscreen than you think you’ll need and apply it more often than you think you should.
I prefer covering up to regular sunscreen. A sarong or two will keep the sun off effectively. I found a few days of sunscreen application while camping got pretty manky.
$20 camp shower and a storage bin solves the mank, but I burn easy, so its a yes and situation for me. :)
Nice! Glad you had a good time!
Yep, I’m trying to keep the participatory aspect of it as front of mind as possible. Goal is to talk to as many people as possible, and say yes to as much stuff as I can (within reason/limits of personal safety). Was hoping to have some particularly cool thing/wandering experience at the ready, but for lack of planning gonna try and compensate by bolstering cool shit other folks are doing where the opportunity arises :).
If you’re heading to Sideburn, get the dust app. (If you haven’t already). https://dust.events/docs/intro/ (link for Android or iOS app is here).
It is an app (for burning man & regional events) that has details of theme camps, art, music & the events on during the festival. They may have a paper guide and the app can be more up to date.
I recommend having a look through the events so you have the option of preparing for any you require something specific for (like a particular color clothing etc). The app doesn’t require internet access after retrieving the event data if you don’t have reception at the location.