Post-Lolla Hangover: Crowd Mentality and the Lollapalooza Experience

By Jessica Oliphant

I saw sixteen concerts in three days. I was practically trampled, used a porta-potty more times than I intended, and left every night caked in dirt and sweat. I had the time of my life. Lollapalooza was beautiful.

As Walk the Moon and Twenty One Pilots became my favorite acts, I realized the importance of the crowd. At both of these shows, the audience was so hyped. We jumped, swayed, and sang as a single unit. In crowds like those at Lolla, there’s a certain mentality that allows you to drop your walls, your insecurities, and your individuality. At Lolla, I could shamelessly be whomever I wanted. There were no boundaries or expectations. Then, when you let go of yourself while pushed against thousands of sweaty people, a community is forged, and you feel like you’re part of something.

Lollapalooza was also an exercise in flexibility. As plans changed, (like emergency evacuating the park. Twice.) I was forced to accept fluidity. Crowds are fluid, too, and when you’re 5’2’’ and can hardly see over anyone’s head, this can be really frustrating. Soon, I learned I had to let go and allow the crowd’s fluid motion to wash away stress and just enjoy myself.

All in all, Lollapalooza was the single greatest weekend of my life. I saw amazing shows from Charli XCX, Twenty One Pilots, The Weeknd, Walk the Moon, and Nicky Romero. I highly recommend seeing all of them given the chance. I also had the opportunity to get to the festival early and check out some groups I’m unfamiliar with. The Wombats, Ryn Weaver, and The Night Terrors of 1927 performed impressively. I suggest giving them a listen. Finally, if the opportunity presents itself, let go of yourself at Lolla and check out some incredible music.

Pre-Lollapalooza Prep: My Lolla Arsenal

MY LOLLA ARSENAL

JESSICA OLIPHANT

With Lollapalooza just around the corner, it’s time to stop daydreaming about dancing in the summer sun and figure out the logistics: what am I bringing with me? While I consider myself an up-and-coming avid concert goer, a music festival on this scale is still uncharted territory for me. Nonetheless, I have compiled a list of what I think will be Lollapalooza must-haves.

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  1. Sundresses: A light sundress should help keep me cool and comfortable without sacrificing a cute look.

  2. Comfy Shoes: While I may start off the day in cute sandals, walking and the possibility of mud definitely warrants a change of shoes.

  3. Sunglasses: Because missing Walk the Moon play Shut Up and Dance due to a glare would be a massive let down.

4. Camelbak Backpack: Although it may not be the cutest accessory, the importance of hydration during a long day in the sun cannot be stressed enough. Plus, there’s storage room!

5. Lolla Cashless: By linking my credit card to my Lollapalooza wristband, I eliminate the chance of theft.

6. Ibuprofen: Loud music and the hot sun can all trigger a headache.

7. Sunscreen: In an attempt to avoid awkward sundress tan lines.

8. An Open Mind: Because I’ll be meeting a lot of new people and checking out a lot of new music, it’s important to keep my mind wide open, so I can have the best experience possible.Armed with my arsenal of gear, I should be able to make this endeavor a successs.

Armed with my arsenal of gear, I should be able to make this endeavor a success!

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