Heading to a Concert This Summer? Here’s What You Need to Know

Hi, it’s Leslie, and one of my most favorite things to do is to go to concerts. I’ve already been to a number of them this summer, and with everything that’s happening in the world, things have changed. Here’s what you should know:

I am quite frustrated that when I went to see Earth Wind & Fire with Santana this past Saturday, I was not allowed to bring my backpack, in spite of the fact that the venue’s website said that backpacks were allowed. So what is allowed?

Well, you can still bring a bag, but it has to be clear plastic, and it cannot be bigger than 12x6x12. Fortunately, retailers have started selling exactly these types of bags. You can also bring a small bag like a purse, and I mean really small.

Most, if not all venues are allowing one or two factory-sealed bottles of water. Some places are allowing up to 1 liter, some places are allowing up to 1 gallon. Also, many venues, especially outdoor venues, are allowing snacks, but again, you must be sure to read everything on both the promoter’s website and the venue’s website.

For example, for the Santana / Earth Wind & Fire concert the venue said that we were allowed to bring in a soft six pack size cooler. When I got there, the promoter’s security said clear bags only.

So what you need to know really, is to keep your stuff in clear bags, and you should be good to go.

Of course weapons are not allowed, and neither is alcohol in any of the venues in our area.

Get there early in case you need to bring something back to your car.  I wish I’d done that, but I checked my bag and ended up missing about half an hour or the show. Plus I had to pay $10 to check my backpack, and it would have been faster and cheaper if I had just taken it back to my car.

At this point, you might think that I’m pretty annoyed at this experience. I am, but not enough to keep away from live music. Both Earth Wind & Fire and Santana we’re amazing, and I loved seeing both bands, and I’m looking forward to my next musical adventure.