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Here you'll find info about artists, rumors, camping tips, and the infamous Roo Clues. Have a look around then create an account and join in the fun. See you at Bonnaroo!!
I may be old now but I was 15 once...sometimes it seems like not so long ago. I'm also the parent of 2 daughters. So allow me to weigh in.
Even as an adult, Bonnaroo can be challenging. Yes, even if you have camping experience. You have unpredictable weather conditions...can be very hot, dusty, etc... you have 70 or 80 thousand people crammed in a park, most of whom don't know one another. Like others have pointed out, most people are very friendly and helpful - I'd estimate 95-97 percent at least. Still, in a crowd that large, 3 to 5 percent jerks is a lot of people.
You also have the added variable of what if something goes wrong medically....anything from food poisoning to heat exhaustion to your friend decided she'd try just a little bit of something (alcohol or other substance) and it got way out of hand. I'm not saying that you or your friends will...but the temptation is there and real. There are people walking around peddling their wares to anyone who will buy. Your neighbors at camp may want to share thinking that they are being friendly. At 15 you are not equipped to make these kinds of decisions or deal with the consequences.
I could go on but I'm sure you would quit reading if you haven't done so already. Bottom line is no. I do not recommend it at all. I took my youngest daughter for the first time when she was 16, with a friend, and required that they check in frequently. Even at that I was concerned for her.
You've got your whole life ahead of you to go to festivals. You don't need to start now.
I'm not telling you this to be mean. I'm talking to you the same way I would talk to my daughter.
I mentioned this in another thread where a teen was asking about going to Bonnaroo...
Going to Bonnaroo on your own is not the same as going down the block in a big city on your own. It's more intense and there are different situations that you may not be used to or even aware of in your normal life.
As someone who was a very independent and adventurous 15 year old I can honestly say that I would not have been able to handle Bonnaroo without an adult at that age. As a parent I can absolutely say that my child would never, under any circumstances be going to Bonnaroo at age 15 without me. I honestly don't even feel that Superfly/AC Entertainment should allow anyone under the age of 17-18 into the festival without and adult but that's not for me to decide and I'm sure there are some experienced teens that could handle it with the right amount of preparation. I would say to either get a day pass (if they make them available again this year) or have a responsible adult bring you then maybe go it alone once you are older.
Post by alainamaree on Feb 21, 2014 7:55:14 GMT -5
well, I have discussed to my mom about both of us going, with a few of my friends. but last year she was diagnosed with a rare blood disease, which really affects her physically. I don't think she would make it through the Bonnaroo heat, from what I've heard it's pretty grueling. So with that said, would it be unwise to have her just stay in Manchester or somewhere nearby? Would that be pointless?
well, I have discussed to my mom about both of us going, with a few of my friends. but last year she was diagnosed with a rare blood disease, which really affects her physically. I don't think she would make it through the Bonnaroo heat, from what I've heard it's pretty grueling. So with that said, would it be unwise to have her just stay in Manchester or somewhere nearby? Would that be pointless?
Sorry to hear about your mom.
If your mom were to go, you should be able to get Access camping for her. Never been in Access, so not sure what other amenities you get, but would be worth checking out. Don't know if they have a shaded/cooled area for her to hang out in during the day.
As far as your mom staying somewhere locally, I think that could work too. They do allow day-parkers, that is, people who arrive and leave everyday because they are staying in a hotel or with someone locally. So your mom could theoretically pick you up and drop you off each day if she really wanted to. Never done day parking, so unsure how difficult it would be to locate her when it was time to be picked up.
In my personal opinion any age is okay as long as you enjoy music (which who doesn't) then you'll have a great time you see anyone from kids to elderly people at Bonnaroo the age group doesn't matter
well, I'm 15. I am a total music fanatic. music = life. ya feel me? but, I've heard many mixed opinions on what age is appropriate. many say 20 or above, and others say only maturity matters. not sure though. I know that I'm not a reckless teen, but many people say that it's still not a good idea. also, would I feel "out of place" if I did go? considering many of the people there are older. thanks!
You should definitely go with someone a bit older. Even if you're a very prepared 15, you're going to be unprepared. I first went in my early 20's and I was woefully unprepared and was still kind of taken aback by some of the stuff I saw (and I'm from NYC, where I've actually seen a homeless guy eat his own shitty toilet paper). I admire you for wanting to try this, but I honestly think it'd be best for you, your friends, and all your parents' sanity if you brought someone older. Do you have an older sibling or cousin that could go?
I was once 15 as well. In a time where cell phone were just phones and a privilege, not a right.
Music festivals were not the neatly wrapped packages they are now.
I survived. And have many tales to tell.
It's really an case by case situation. I always had tons of big "brothers" and "sisters". We always had groups of at least 20 going. I always told my mother where I was going. But I never really had rules growing up.(not saying this is a good or bad thing)
Yes, Bonnaroo is bigger, longer, and hotter than a lot of festivals. But it's also pretty upper class. It shouldn't be a problem as long as you go into it with a self sufficient mind and a plan of attack.
Side note, I'll be 30 next month. So I've latterly been going to festivals for half of my life. Again, I don't know if I should be proud or cry.
Post by pondo ROCKS on Feb 21, 2014 8:53:29 GMT -5
As pretty much covered by everybody else, bring at least one older person with you. If you decide to go, check out Camp Inforoo at Tent Only as you can buddy up with some other people on the site. I am sure some of the vets will help you out and it could be quite fun! I would definately tell you to look into this idea.
The fact that you are asking about it means you are pretty wise. Take the advice of others and have at least one adult with you. Also read the MANY useful threads up here to help you prepare for Bonnaroo. A good experience at Bonnaroo will last a lifetime.
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I may be old now but I was 15 once...sometimes it seems like not so long ago. I'm also the parent of 2 daughters. So allow me to weigh in.
Even as an adult, Bonnaroo can be challenging. Yes, even if you have camping experience. You have unpredictable weather conditions...can be very hot, dusty, etc... you have 70 or 80 thousand people crammed in a park, most of whom don't know one another. Like others have pointed out, most people are very friendly and helpful - I'd estimate 95-97 percent at least. Still, in a crowd that large, 3 to 5 percent jerks is a lot of people.
You also have the added variable of what if something goes wrong medically....anything from food poisoning to heat exhaustion to your friend decided she'd try just a little bit of something (alcohol or other substance) and it got way out of hand. I'm not saying that you or your friends will...but the temptation is there and real. There are people walking around peddling their wares to anyone who will buy. Your neighbors at camp may want to share thinking that they are being friendly. At 15 you are not equipped to make these kinds of decisions or deal with the consequences.
I could go on but I'm sure you would quit reading if you haven't done so already. Bottom line is no. I do not recommend it at all. I took my youngest daughter for the first time when she was 16, with a friend, and required that they check in frequently. Even at that I was concerned for her.
You've got your whole life ahead of you to go to festivals. You don't need to start now.
I'm not telling you this to be mean. I'm talking to you the same way I would talk to my daughter.
I second everything Zen says here. I have a 22 year old, and she came to Bonnaroo with me from the age of 14 and really had a hard time in the earlier years. I was not comfortable with letting her be totally on her own there until she was 17, and I still made her camp with us! She had been to festivals and concerts with me growing up, but nothing prepares you for Bonnaroo. It is even overwhelming as an adult and I've been 8 times.
I really would not recommend going alone or even with other people your age. No matter how mature you are, I really believe you need an adult with you, especially for your first time.
If I were going this year I would offer to chaperone y'all. You really do need an older person in your group.
that probably sounded creepy or weird and that wasn't my intent...sorry! I'm actually a pretty cool mom. when I was your age I was in some situations that I should not have survived....others that scarred me for life. I had friends who did not make it. Food for thought.
If I were going this year I would offer to chaperone y'all. You really do need an older person in your group.
that probably sounded creepy or weird and that wasn't my intent...sorry! I'm actually a pretty cool mom. when I was your age I was in some situations that I should not have survived....others that scarred me for life. I had friends who did not make it. Food for thought.
yeah. I guess maybe I should start by going to a small fest: is there any good ones with a decent lineup here around GA?
Post by alainamaree on Feb 21, 2014 9:15:13 GMT -5
I have to admit, I'm sure that bonnaroo is a very difficult place to be at my age. I'm sure I don't harbor the knowledge that is needed. though, I'd like to start going to smaller scale music fests, some that could prepare me to go In a few years time.
I have to admit, I'm sure that bonnaroo is a very difficult place to be at my age. I'm sure I don't harbor the knowledge that is needed. though, I'd like to start going to smaller scale music fests, some that could prepare me to go In a few years time.
This is probably the best decision you could make. I know Shaky Knees is in Atlanta, but know nothing about it beyond that. Bonnaroo will still be around for you in a year or two, and you'll be grateful you waited. When you do make it to the farm for the first time, you'll be able to fully enjoy it and know you'll survive. It will be worth it in the end. Have fun wherever you end up this summer!
Post by bassbroshops on Feb 21, 2014 9:40:56 GMT -5
I was 17 last year and here are the ages of the group I went with:
17 17 17 18 18 19 19 18 18 18
there were 10 of us. We took a van and a toyota camry. most of the 17 and 18 year olds had our parents buy our tix as graduation presents and then it was like a "graduation/last hurrah" road trip, as we're spread all over the US for college now. But all 10 of us are going again this year, and maybe a few others.
what I'm saying is: a few of us made the roadtrip without adult supervision at 17. Nobody was 20+. It was a blast, we handled ourselves well. You should be fine if you're younger.
I have to admit, I'm sure that bonnaroo is a very difficult place to be at my age. I'm sure I don't harbor the knowledge that is needed. though, I'd like to start going to smaller scale music fests, some that could prepare me to go In a few years time.
Great decision. Make sure to take it to your mom too and let her know that, "hey remember that thing in Tenn. that I was thinking about? We'll I decided to make a mature decision and get some experience at a few local festivals (Maybe a day pass at Counterpoint Festival {not sure if age restricted}) and then make the step up when me and my friends think we are ready and fully prepared." IMO it will earn you some kudos for making an "adult decision" in your own best interest.
I was 17 last year and here are the ages of the group I went with:
17 17 17 18 18 19 19 18 18 18
there were 10 of us. We took a van and a toyota camry. most of the 17 and 18 year olds had our parents buy our tix as graduation presents and then it was like a "graduation/last hurrah" road trip, as we're spread all over the US for college now. But all 10 of us are going again this year, and maybe a few others.
what I'm saying is: a few of us made the roadtrip without adult supervision at 17. Nobody was 20+. It was a blast, we handled ourselves well. You should be fine if you're younger.
IMO there is a big difference between 17 graduating high school, and 15. i was also 17 at my first fest and went the weekend before i graduated high school. but i was a sophomore i believe when i was 15 and there is no way i would've been able to do bonnaroo alone at that age. everyone is different, but 15 is young to go alone.....
I was 17 last year and here are the ages of the group I went with:
17 17 17 18 18 19 19 18 18 18
there were 10 of us. We took a van and a toyota camry. most of the 17 and 18 year olds had our parents buy our tix as graduation presents and then it was like a "graduation/last hurrah" road trip, as we're spread all over the US for college now. But all 10 of us are going again this year, and maybe a few others.
what I'm saying is: a few of us made the roadtrip without adult supervision at 17. Nobody was 20+. It was a blast, we handled ourselves well. You should be fine if you're younger.
IMO there is a big difference between 17 graduating high school, and 15. i was also 17 at my first fest and went the weekend before i graduated high school. but i was a sophomore i believe when i was 15 and there is no way i would've been able to do bonnaroo alone at that age. everyone is different, but 15 is young to go alone.....
ill give you that. But I think 17 is perfectly fine. I'll be 18 for it this year, and there wont be much of a difference. My friends will still all trip and I won't. My mom went to woodstock at 10 with her parents (only because her brother was playing woodstock) and she said she hated it lol. She grew up as a big hippie and she educated me a lot and I know what I will and won't touch.
well, I'm 15. I am a total music fanatic. music = life. ya feel me? but, I've heard many mixed opinions on what age is appropriate. many say 20 or above, and others say only maturity matters. not sure though. I know that I'm not a reckless teen, but many people say that it's still not a good idea. also, would I feel "out of place" if I did go? considering many of the people there are older. thanks!
Naw I personally don't think you would feel "out of place" it would deff help to go with friends your age and just stick together and y'all would have fun forsure...everyone at Bonnaroo is nice as hell and always willing to help with anything you may need I work there every year volunteering so there's always going to be staff there to work with ya if you or your friends ever have any questions or just need anything in general...like I said last year I met a lot of girls that were 15-18 years old that we're having a blast
I'm a little bit disturbed by your admission that you met "a lot of girls" under the age of 18.
For the original poster, in my opinion if you're not old enough to be legally counted as an adult, and aren't being accompanied by people who are, it's a terrible idea.
I have to admit, I'm sure that bonnaroo is a very difficult place to be at my age. I'm sure I don't harbor the knowledge that is needed. though, I'd like to start going to smaller scale music fests, some that could prepare me to go In a few years time.
I think that is a very mature decision to make Music Midtown in September is pretty great. I've gone to the last 3 of them, and Zen usually goes also. There is no camping but it really gives you a good feel for the crowds etc.
Post by easymorningrebel on Feb 21, 2014 10:52:47 GMT -5
You picked the right place to ask this question, and thankfully all the responses seem on target. If your mother is ok with you going, and you decide to go, read thru all the camping threads on here to prepare yourself. Bonnaroo weather can be unpredictable and sometimes hits you unexpectedly, so be prepared for anything. Also, make sure your friends are as prepared as you. Make sure you have enough money, including emergency cash. Taking the shuttle is a good idea too. If you can, get there early and camp in tent only.
Another thing to consider is how you handle huge crowds. Personally I love them, but not everyone does. At some point over the weekend you WILL get separated from your friends, make sure you have a meet up place. Cell phone coverage isn't always great and charging your phone is sometimes a hassle. I could go on and on, but the decision is up to you, if you do it, do it right and have fun!! Good luck!!
I have to admit, I'm sure that bonnaroo is a very difficult place to be at my age. I'm sure I don't harbor the knowledge that is needed. though, I'd like to start going to smaller scale music fests, some that could prepare me to go In a few years time.
I think that is a very mature decision to make Music Midtown in September is pretty great. I've gone to the last 3 of them, and Zen usually goes also. There is no camping but it really gives you a good feel for the crowds etc.
^ I'll second that.
At the end of the day, even if you are prepared, the potential harm outweighs the good. Everyone who has suggested attending a smaller festival is absolutely right.
It sounds like you might be taking their advice, which is a wise choice. Not only will it make you more prepared for future Bonnaroos, but it will help ease your mother's mind when the time comes.
Keep in mind - you're starting "festie life" at a very young age. Most of us were over 18 before we attended our first festival. I know it seems like a long time from now, but if you start small and build your way up, your festival resume will dwarf that of your peers when you get to be my age. You're on the right track - pace yourself and you'll be in for a lifetime of glorious concert memories.
I have to admit, I'm sure that bonnaroo is a very difficult place to be at my age. I'm sure I don't harbor the knowledge that is needed. though, I'd like to start going to smaller scale music fests, some that could prepare me to go In a few years time.
If you can find someone who can drive- I suggest any festival at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park in Live Oak, FL. They have many festivals a year and it's just over the GA line. It's low-key yet fun, beautiful and the camp sites are shady. For example, a bunch of us will be at Wanee in April.
Welcome back Bonz, but I do not find it strange that your presence being requested in the Orgy thread and then you showing up, like it was the quacking Bonzai Bat Signal.
Post by bassbroshops on Feb 21, 2014 11:05:50 GMT -5
I disagree with all of this. I think 17 is a perfect age to go with your friends/no adult supervision. You really think the 12 months between 17 and 18 make a huge difference? not really. Not for anyone I know, anyways.
Do your research for months beforehand. I read everything I could for 2 months before going. My group drove 12 hours through the night to bonnaroo to arrive at 8am thursday so we wouldnt be in BFE. Got Jabba the Hutt, and had a great experience. We even all called our dads for fathers day.
I hate that older people seem to forget what being a teenager was like. Plus, it's different now with the way technology is. You can talk to your kid daily on the phone (verizon works best on the farm), this isn't 1990. Don't take anything a stranger offers you.
its common sense. Going to a festival and walking around and seeing some shows while camping isn't that scary or hard. At age 15? yeah probably. But I don't think yuo need to wait until you're over 18, thats bs. If you're responsible and not an idiot, you'll be fine.
I disagree with all of this. I think 17 is a perfect age to go with your friends/no adult supervision. You really think the 12 months between 17 and 18 make a huge difference? not really. Not for anyone I know, anyways.
Do your research for months beforehand. I read everything I could for 2 months before going. My group drove 12 hours through the night to bonnaroo to arrive at 8am thursday so we wouldnt be in BFE. Got Jabba the Hutt, and had a great experience. We even all called our dads for fathers day.
I hate that older people seem to forget what being a teenager was like. Plus, it's different now with the way technology is. You can talk to your kid daily on the phone (verizon works best on the farm), this isn't 1990. Don't take anything a stranger offers you.
its common sense. Going to a festival and walking around and seeing some shows while camping isn't that scary or hard. At age 15? yeah probably. But I don't think yuo need to wait until you're over 18, thats bs. If you're responsible and not an idiot, you'll be fine.
The OP is 15 though, not 17. And yes, I do think there's a huge difference between 15 and 17. I agree, at 17 I don't think there would be much of an issue as long as the person is mature and prepared.
I disagree with all of this. I think 17 is a perfect age to go with your friends/no adult supervision. You really think the 12 months between 17 and 18 make a huge difference? not really. Not for anyone I know, anyways.
Do your research for months beforehand. I read everything I could for 2 months before going. My group drove 12 hours through the night to bonnaroo to arrive at 8am thursday so we wouldnt be in BFE. Got Jabba the Hutt, and had a great experience. We even all called our dads for fathers day.
I hate that older people seem to forget what being a teenager was like. Plus, it's different now with the way technology is. You can talk to your kid daily on the phone (verizon works best on the farm), this isn't 1990. Don't take anything a stranger offers you.
its common sense. Going to a festival and walking around and seeing some shows while camping isn't that scary or hard. At age 15? yeah probably. But I don't think yuo need to wait until you're over 18, thats bs. If you're responsible and not an idiot, you'll be fine.
The OP is 15 though, not 17. And yes, I do think there's a huge difference between 15 and 17. I agree, at 17 I don't think there would be much of an issue as long as the person is mature and prepared.
where in Georgia do you live? I'm from Macon originally. Bragg Jam is in July every year in Macon and has lots of great live music. Someone mentioned Shaky Knees here in Atlanta, there is also Music Midtown .... but I wouldn't want you all on your own at either one of those either.
I know you're in a super big hurry to grow up...been there, done that. But you will never get back this time in your life. Yes, you might miss getting to see some bands. I missed out on a few that when I was your age that I never had the chance to see again. But as you grow up and mature, the world will be your oyster.
It's a different world out there than when I was 15 in the mid-70s. There are nastier people and nastier substances. Legal penalties are much more severe for the slightest misstep, especially at your age.
Add to that the fact that conditions at Roo can be harsh even for the experienced. I'm convinced that it's harsher than any Survivor-type show (not that I watch that garbage...haha). Go back and read some old posts and you will learn that we have lost a couple of beloved members of this board at Roo...that were old enough, prepared and still didn't make it.
Watch the live stream. Invite your buddies for a sleepover and watch it. Learn all you can from reading Inforoo so that when you are older, you will be better equipped.
Post by alainamaree on Feb 21, 2014 11:56:01 GMT -5
is the firefly fest in DE a good fest? anybody have any experience there? what about the hangout in Alabama? not sure which ones will qualify as a "beginner fest". lol. and yeah, I know you all are quite taken aback by the fact I'm 15, but as people have stated, you would have to know me to determine my maturity level. I do think maturity plays a big role in being at a fest. But yes, age does matter to some extent, but I have to say the most important asset is experience. not age. if I was like 13 or so, I probably would even consider asking. Because that is very young. But 15 is in the middle of learning and experiencing new things, in my case. More responsibilities, and opportunities.
so, can you list some reasons why it's not suitable for a mature 15 year old? like, why you think it's unsafe, inappropriate, etc.
I would wait 2 or 3 years. My friends and I are in our early-mid 30's, and I STILL have to get onto some of them at Bonnaroo because they can't handle their own business. It's an overwhelming environment for grown folks, let alone a 15 year old. Why don't you start going to festivals close to home? Smaller festivals are really fun, you can sleep in your own bed at night, and you don't have to worry about running out of money or food.
Music Midtown in September is pretty great. I've gone to the last 3 of them, and Zen usually goes also. There is no camping but it really gives you a good feel for the crowds etc.
but I do not find it strange that your presence being requested in the Orgy thread and then you showing up, like it was the quacking Bonzai Bat Signal. 
