You’re NOT Too Old for Festivals – And Here’s Why
If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I too old to go to a music festival?” the answer is a big NO! Music festivals aren’t just for 20-somethings; they’re for music lovers of all ages who want to experience the magic of festivals
Going to a festival at 30+ isn’t about trying to keep up with younger ravers and festival-goers- it’s about enjoying the event in a way that suits you. The good news? Being older and wiser means you can do festivals smarter (with more comfort, better planning, and fewer regrets)
Here’s how to survive (and thrive) at a music festival when you’re over 30.
Choose the Right Festival for Your Vibe
Not all festivals are the same, and as an over-30 festival-goer, picking the right event for you can make or break your experience. Consider:
The Lineup: Choose a festival where you actually love the artists—this makes everything else worth it
The Vibe: Some festivals cater to an older, more relaxed crowd, while others have a high-energy, younger audience. Also bigger isn't always better, there are lots of small festivals you'll enjoy just as much (if not even more)
The Setup: If all-night raving isn’t your thing anymore, look for festivals that offer seating areas, VIP lounges, or chill zones.
Accessibility & Amenities: Multi-day festivals are easier when they have showers, lockers, and shaded rest areas. This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on certain links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting this blog!
Surviving the Festival: Comfort Is Key
Your 30-year-old self deserves better than blisters, dehydration, and exhaustion. Here’s how to stay comfortable:
Shoes Matter More Than Ever: Invest in cushioned sneakers or festival boots—your feet will thank you! You'll be walking SO much take good care of your feet - bring blister patches, a few pairs of shoes and lots of socks.
Hydration & Electrolytes: A hangover at 30+ hits harder. Stay ahead with hydration packs, electrolyte powder, and pacing your drinks. Personally, I keep my drinking at festivals to a minimum, especially at multi-day fests.
Pace Yourself: You don’t have to rage from noon to sunrise. Take breaks, sit down, and prioritize must-see artists. HOT TIP - Bring a folding stool to put in your backpack so you can sit down and get some weight off your feet at any moment.
Recovery Plan: Pack pain relievers, vitamins, and muscle rubs so you don’t feel wrecked afterward.
Eat Healthy: Can you survive a weekend on chicken strips? Sure - but you're not going to feel great. Choose healthy options and don't over eat.
What to Wear & Bring to Feel Confident & Comfortable
You don’t have to dress like a 21-year-old influencer to fit in. Festivals are about self-expression, so wear what makes you feel good and comfortable. Pinterest has SO many cute outfit ideas- I've curated a lot of outfits in all aesthetics (check out my Outfit Inspo on Pinterest)
Stylish but Practical Outfit Ideas: Think breathable fabrics, comfy layers, and fun accessories.
Footwear That Lasts: Skip the sandals—opt for sneakers, boots, or comfy platforms. Oh, and make sure your footwear is broken in beforehand.
Festival Bag Essentials: Sunscreen, earplugs, portable charger, hand sanitizer, and a lightweight poncho. Have your essentials with you at all times.
Hot tip - if you struggle with chafing, bring an anti-chafing stick with you. It will reduce irritation and help keep you comfortable
Camping vs. Non-Camping: What’s Best at 30+?
Everyone has different preferences when it comes to festival accommodations. If you don’t enjoy camping in general, you’re probably not going to love it at a festival either—and that’s okay!
There’s no shame in booking a hotel or Airbnb to ensure you get a comfortable night’s sleep under a roof. On the other hand, if you love the immersive, communal vibe of festival camping, making the right comfort upgrades can make all the difference. Whether you camp or stay off-site, the goal is to enjoy the festival in a way that works best for you!
Hotels & Airbnbs: If you prioritize comfort, showers, and good sleep, this is a great option.
Glamping & VIP Camping: A great middle ground—real beds, private showers, and quiet zones.
Regular Camping: Doable with the right setup—bring a thick sleeping pad, earplugs, and a good tent.
The Perks of Being an Older Festival-Goer
Better Budgeting & Planning: You can afford better accommodations and experiences.
No FOMO: You know your limits and don’t feel pressured to overdo it.
More Confidence: You don’t care what people think—you’re there for the music & experience.
Smarter Festival Choices: You choose events that fit your vibe, not just what’s trending.
You Belong Here!
Music festivals aren’t just for the 20-somethings—they’re for anyone who loves live music, community, and new experiences. Being over 30 just means you get to enjoy them your way—smarter, more comfortable, and with zero regrets. And don't forget - these festivals wouldn't happen without Millennials, from the DJs to organizers. Also one day those 20 something year old will be our age and I bet a lot of them are still going to want to attend festivals.
So go grab those tickets, pack your essentials, and get ready to have the best festival experience of your life!
Have you been to a festival over 30? Drop your best tips in the comments and share this with your festival crew! 🎶✨
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