A beginner’s guide to Shambhala: Everything you need to know and more

Keeping Yourself Safe

The most important thing we can tell you to do throughout the weekend it to pace yourself. Hydrate well and eat a hearty dinner, you’ll need the energy to keep you going across four nights of music and dancing. Additionally, there’s a tent in the festival grounds that will test any and all drugs, no strings attached. If you choose to imbibe, there is literally no reason why you shouldn’t utilize that testing tent as a resource. It takes only a few minutes, and it could potentially save your life. In the end, you are responsible for your own safety. The tools will be provided for you, it’s up to you to use them.

Related: How to really, truly prevent deaths at EDM festivals

For anyone looking for support in going the weekend sober, Camp Clean Beats is the place to be. They’re an amazing group of people, devoted to a drug and alcohol free weekend of experiencing Shambhala for what it is: A beautiful place to see some of best music in the world. Follow them on Facebook here for more information, and keep a lookout for their well-marked campsite once you’re inside.

In terms of other safety precautions, hydration packs of all shapes and sizes are allowed. There’s a free water station in the center of the festival near the Sunflower Garden and outside of most stages (trust us, you can’t miss them), and we highly recommend you use it throughout the day. Assorted vendors will also be selling coconut water to replenish those lost electrolytes. Temperatures often approach 90+ degrees during the day, and despite the preponderance of shade, it’ll take its toll on you if you’re not properly hydrated.

DMNW Pro-Tip #6: If you’re sensitive to dust and smoke, we highly recommend snagging a dust mask for the weekend! Even if you’re not, you should definitely at least have a seamless mask, KN95, or bandana on hand for COVID safety.

When the sun goes down, things will get cold. Temperatures will drop to the low-50s/high-40s, so pack warm clothes accordingly. A good rule of thumb is pack a bag for the daytime hours with a towel and bathing suit for swimming in the river. Then make the short walk back to your campsite for nighttime items once the sun starts to fall, gathering long-sleeve shirts, pullovers, hats, gloves, hoodies, etc.