2025 is in full swing, and we’re gearing up for another busy season of raves across the PNW. Here are some tips that we have found as we have been raving over the years (and still slowly trying to apply). Do yourself a favor and plan for success this season with DMNW’s resolutions for festivals.
Buy tickets early!
It sucks when shows sell out or you can’t find a cheap ticket several days before the event. We try to buy as soon as the date is announced. We understand not everyone is able to afford tickets the day they come out, which is a bummer, so try to save and plan for artists! Artists typically announce their shows along with presale and general sale information in advance, typically a few days or weeks.
Don’t go to every show
If a festival is two or three days consider saving your energy up and attend for a single day. By the third day of raves, it’s easy to feel like a zombie anyways. A few years ago when some of us were rave babies, we thought it would great to go to 2-3 shows a week. Try to learn the culture and embrace the rave lifestyle which means pacing yourself. Two years later, we’re sitting here safe at home on a Saturday night writing this article because they aren’t any shows we are interested in tonight!
Consider going solo to get comfortable on your own
It can strain your rave family when you are too dependent on certain members of your group being there. Learn to enjoy yourself and create your own positive energy. Or if you prefer, lurk in the back of the crowd with sunglasses if you just want to enjoy the show with minimal human interaction. Obviously this is easier for guys to do because of safety reasons, so ladies please stay safe. Regardless, make sure people know where you are, you know where security is, and keep your belongings safe as well.
Exercise and eat healthy so you can go harder
Consider starting to hike; this will help immensely with getting up and down that steep Gorge hill. Also, when we have stopped focusing on fitness we’ve noticed at shows wanting to sit down more. Being fit = less sitting down, but sitting down is still good.
Talk to people
Many people get so fixated on getting to the show and getting a good spot that many forget to try and enjoy the presence of others. It’s easy to assume you and your group are the coolest MFs and everyone else needs to keep up. But try to assume other people are cool and have things to offer, and if they don’t that’s okay. Maybe you will inspire them! Be positive, be willing to step outside of your comfort zone, but also don’t invade others’ privacy. Keep it a safe space for everyone to enjoy.
Arrive early to support opening artists (and get a good spot)
Wish we had more to say here, but this is something we still struggle with.
Be More PLUR
If there’s anything you can take away from this, it’s to HAVE FUN! DON’T GO TOO HARD! In all seriousness, don’t let being PLUR die. Doesn’t mean you need to make kandi, but spread peace, love, unity, and respect! Be nice to everyone you meet.
Last one
Please watch XOXO on Netflix, it’s a EDM/rave movie on Netflix about a group of friends going to a music festival. It’s from 2016, it’s a little bit dated/cheesy but will hopefully remind you of your early days of raving. Overall we like it for its good vibes and wholesome story. A bonus is that some moments are pretty effing hilarious.
Anyways, most importantly, everyone stay safe and let’s make 2025 a year to remember!
Important things happen in Pacific Northwest nightlife, and DMNW will send you alerts!
