As summer break approaches, we all start thinking about sleeping in, basking in the sun, and spending time with friends. For some of us SI students, summer break means going to music festivals, like Bottlerock and Outside Lands, or concerts at Shoreline Amphitheater and Oakland Arena.
Bottlerock, in Napa Valley, will host the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Post Malone, Lizzo, Lil Nas X, the Smashing Pumpkins, and many other artists. Since the venue is in Napa, it is a drive for many Bay Area residents, so be sure to plan for plenty of time to navigate traffic getting there. Bottlerock is known for taking place on very hot weekends, meaning it is incredibly important to wear sun protection and drink tons of water!
In 2023, San Francisco’s famous Outside Lands will host Lana Del Ray, Kendrick Lamar, Megan Thee Stallion, the Foo Fighters, and many more fantastic artists. When attending this event, be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen, dress for the unpredictable Sunset weather, hydrate, and eat before and during the long festival days. When dancing and listening to music in warm weather, dehydration and heat stroke are far too familiar. It is essential to look out not only for one’s health but also for friends’ health. Look for signs of nausea, overheating, confusion, slurred speech, and fainting.
While getting ready to watch live music this summer, be sure to get a map and scout out where medical and food tents are beforehand. Lastly, be sure to have fun and make some amazing memories of seeing your favorite artists with your loved ones!
Kate McFarland '24 is a Vol. 71 Contributing Editor