Are you ready to immerse yourself in the magical world of Electric Forest? This ultimate guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your unforgettable experience at this one-of-a-kind music festival. From budgeting and ticketing to camping tips and must-see stages, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
How to Start Planning
Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, it’s important to start your planning process on the right foot. We recommend checking out our blog post on how to start planning for a music festival, which provides valuable insights and tips to help you get organized.
Budgeting for Electric Forest
Attending Electric Forest is an investment, and it’s crucial to budget accordingly to ensure you have an amazing experience without breaking the bank. Here’s a breakdown of the expenses you can expect based on previous years:
- Electric Forest 2018:
- GA Ticket: $365.45
- Flights: $438.80
- Rental Car/Camping/Food/Early Arrival: $374.00
- Outfits: $85.00
- Total: $1,263.25
- Electric Forest 2019:
- Ticket: Free
- Flights: $373.30
- Rental Car: $100.00
- Walmart/Camping: $100.00
- Outfits: $50.00
- Food/Drink at Forest: $150.00
- Hotel night before: $50
- One Way Shuttle: $50
- Total: $873.30
- Electric Forest 2021 – Group Camping:
- Ticket: Free
- Flights: Used flight points (estimated $600)
- Rental car split with friends: $18.31
- Walmart/Camping: $100.00
- Food/Drink at Forest: $300.00
- Hotel night before: $50
- Total: $500 (would’ve been more with ticket and flights)
As you can see, pricing has increased over the years. Depending on the type of experience you’re looking for, you could be spending at least $1000 if you’re not driving. It’s essential to factor in these costs when creating your budget.
Tickets
Tickets for Electric Forest can be highly sought after, so it’s crucial to plan your ticket purchase strategy in advance. Here’s what you need to know:
Loyalty Sale
The Loyalty Sale is for those who have attended Electric Forest in previous years. The loyalty system has recently been revamped, and you can find more information on their website. Make sure to take advantage of the loyalty sale if you qualify.
General On-Sale
If you don’t have loyalty, you can purchase your ticket during the General On-Sale. Don’t worry if you missed out on the Loyalty Sale; there will still be tickets available during the General On-Sale. Be prepared to purchase as soon as tickets go on sale to secure your spot at the festival.
I Didn’t Get a Ticket, Now What?
If you were unable to secure a ticket through the initial sales, don’t stress! There are still other options available to you. Keep an eye on the resale page, social media platforms, and reach out to friends who may have extra tickets. Electric Forest also has an official ticket exchange where you can find resold tickets. Additionally, consider volunteer and work exchange programs as an alternative way to attend the festival.
Flights
Depending on where you’re traveling from, flights can be a significant part of your Electric Forest adventure. Here are a few tips to consider:
- Research flight options and book in advance to secure the best prices.
- Consider flying into airports near Rothbury, such as Grand Rapids, Chicago, or Detroit.
- If you’re unable to rent a car, look into shuttle services that can take you from the airport to the festival grounds.
Getting to the Forest
Once you’ve arrived at the designated airport or if you’re driving to Electric Forest, it’s essential to plan your arrival carefully. Here’s what you need to know:
- If you’re taking a shuttle, familiarize yourself with the shuttle options and pricing. Some shuttles offer early arrival on Wednesday without a pass, allowing you to secure a spot in tent-only camping.
- If you’re driving, consider arriving on Wednesday to ensure ample time for setup and to avoid missing any artists you want to see. Keep in mind that wait times may be longer on Thursday, especially if you haven’t purchased an early arrival pass.
How to Camp at Electric Forest (General Admission Camping Tips)
Camping is an integral part of the Electric Forest experience. Whether you’re a seasoned festival camper or a first-timer, here are some tips to help you make the most of your camping adventure:
- Review the festival’s guidelines on what you can and can’t bring into the campgrounds. Be prepared for security checks upon entry.
- Take the time to get to know your neighbors and make new friends. There’s plenty of downtime during the festival to connect with fellow campers.
- Be mindful of the size of your camping space and park your car accordingly.
- Bring trash bags and recycling bags to keep your campsite clean.
- Invest in sturdy stakes for your tents to prevent them from getting blown away in case of strong winds.
- Remember that glass is not allowed in the campgrounds. Opt for alternatives like cans or plastic bottles.
- If you’re concerned about showering, Electric Forest provides shower facilities for a fee. Alternatively, you can bring portable showers or use baby wipes for hygiene.
How to Prepare
Proper preparation is key to an enjoyable Electric Forest experience. Here are some essential items to pack:
- Wristband and camping passes
- Spare car keys
- Cash for merchandise, food, and emergencies
- Portable battery for charging your devices
- Hydration pack to stay hydrated throughout the festival
- Earplugs for protecting your ears during loud performances
- Cooler to store food and beverages
- Jumper cables for any car-related emergencies
- Games and decorations to personalize your campsite
- Tent, tarp, camping chairs, and a foldable table for comfortable camping
- Portable fan to stay cool in hot weather
- Sleeping supplies, including a sleeping bag and air mattress or sleeping pad
- Trash bags for proper waste disposal
- Toiletries for showering and getting ready
- Toilet paper and towels
- Sunscreen to protect your skin
- Pain relievers like ibuprofen
- Personal hygiene products like tampons or menstrual cups
- Plenty of food and water to sustain yourself throughout the festival
Security
Electric Forest takes security seriously to ensure the safety of all attendees. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Be aware of the festival’s list of prohibited items and make sure you comply with the guidelines.
- Prepare for security checks upon entry, including bag searches and possible pat-downs.
- Read and follow the festival’s guidelines to avoid any issues during security checks.
What to Wear
Electric Forest is a festival where you can express your personal style and have fun with your outfits. Whether you prefer a casual and cute look or want to go all out, here are some tips for dressing at Electric Forest:
- Opt for comfortable clothing that allows you to move and dance freely.
- Consider wearing two-piece rave sets, bodysuits, or trippy prints for a unique festival look.
- Be prepared for varying weather conditions and pack clothes suitable for both warm and cold temperatures.
- Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes or consider using Dr. Scholls inserts for extra support.
How to Survive
Electric Forest is a marathon, not a sprint. Here are some survival tips to ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable experience:
- Take breaks as needed and listen to your body. Pace yourself to avoid burnout.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the festival. Consider using electrolyte supplements like Emergen-C or Pedialyte to replenish your body.
- Wear comfortable shoes to minimize foot fatigue from all the walking and dancing.
- Bring necessary supplies like sunscreen and pain relievers to take care of your health.
- Take the time to explore the festival grounds, including the hidden gems within the forest.
- Try the delicious food options available at Electric Forest, such as Spicy Pie and Mozzarella Sticks. Don’t forget to have the famous lemonade!
- Embrace the spirit of the Forest Family and make new friends. The community at Electric Forest is welcoming and inclusive.
- Stay open-minded and be prepared for unexpected experiences. Sometimes the best moments happen when things don’t go as planned.
Other Resources
Electric Forest offers a wealth of resources to help you navigate the festival. Here are a few additional sources of information:
- Check out some Electric Forest videos on YouTube for an immersive visual experience of the festival.
- Explore the “Secrets of the Forest” section on Electric Forest’s website for insider tips and hidden gems.
- Follow Electric Forest on social media for updates, announcements, and community engagement.
Electric Forest is a truly unique music festival that offers a magical experience for all attendees. With proper planning and preparation, you can make the most of your time in the Forest and create memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready for an adventure like no other!