Your favorite performer takes the stage; you frantically make your way to the front and spend the next few hours enjoying your favorite records. Concertgoers know the thrill of being front and center of their favorite artists’ performances all too well. The front has also become prime location to take photos/videos to share with friends and social media. Experiencing a show from the front is something every concertgoer should try [if at least once]. Here are a few responsible ways to do so:

 

• Protect Your Ears – this is without a doubt, the most important tip. Being closer to your favorite artist also means you are now closer to the speakers and sub woofers which can produce decibels loud enough to compromise hearing after a long duration of exposure. Make sure to always carry a pair of earplugs when attending a show in case you plan on venturing to the front. You can purchase inexpensive earplugs from your nearest pharmacy from $5-$10 [for packs with as many as 20 earplugs]; many clubs sell earplugs in the restrooms as well.
• Stay Hydrated – Once up front, many concertgoers fear losing their spot if they were to move. It is important to stay hydrated, especially if you have spent a large amount of time dancing. Make sure to purchase a bottle of water when you arrive at the venue and carry it with you to the front so you do not have to lose your spot when you get thirsty throughout the evening.
• Keep Those Batteries Juiced – What’s worst than making it front row [at your favorite artist’s performance], only to have your phone die before taking any photos and videos?  Throughout most of our days, we spend a large amount of time draining our batteries whether it be from texting, phone conversations, or just by killing time on social media.  On a night that you will [most likely] want to share, it’s important to have ample battery life.  As many of us are always on the move, it can sometimes seem nearly impossible to charge our devices; portable battery chargers and cases are great solutions to this problem.  With many [portable] chargers doubling usage time (ranging from $10-$100), they are a great investment for all concertgoers.
• Wear Comfortable Footwear – Being up front means that you will be spending long hours on your feet. It is important to wear comfortable shoes in order to make for an enjoyable experience.  When going out, people tend to follow an unwritten “dress to impress” rule.  We break out our most stylish [and likely highly uncomfortable] shoes, pair it with our favorite outfit, and head out.  While this is great, it is not suggested if you plan on attending a show front row.  Not only will it be highly uncomfortable, but there is also a high probability that your feet will be stepped on a couple of times throughout the evening; we all know how upsetting it is to get a scuff mark, or a drink spilled on our favorite designer shoes.  Unless there is a strict dress code, it’s suggested that the ladies wear flats over heels; fellas, running shoes are preferred over dress shoes.
• Keep Your Friends Close – Having friends around ensures your front row space.  Not only will be able to separate yourself from other concertgoers, but in case you must leave the dance floor your friends can save your spot.

Hopefully, these tips are helpful on your next [or first] experience up front.