A typical concert lasts only hours, but the memory will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a first-time concertgoer or not, it’s great to have a refresher on a concert’s do’s and don’ts. Here are some concert etiquette and not-iquette to make the show safe and enjoyable for you and other fans.

DO Wear Comfortable Clothes

It’s normal to get excited about wearing a costume of your favorite artist or those cute heels you’ve been looking forward to wearing on a special occasion. While wearing anything you like is fine, ensure you wear something comfortable. Let’s be real — concerts can be sweaty, especially if you’re attending an outdoor event. 

The most important part of your OOTD is your shoes, especially if you plan on standing or dancing the whole time. Opt for a comfortable pair that doesn’t easily fall off or won’t hurt people if you’re crowd surfing. Consider wearing running shoes with ample cushioning to absorb shock from standing and jumping for long hours.

DON’T Arrive Late

Go to the venue early, like you would in an airport. Arriving hours early allows you to wander outside to buy merchandise, take IG-worthy photos, cool off with drinks and meet new friends. Giveaway culture is alive in many fandoms, especially K-pop and Taylor Swift’s concerts. Hours before the concert, fans give away free unofficial merchandise and other small gifts as a way to get interaction with fellow fans.

DO Eat and Hydrate Properly Before Going to the Venue

Eat a proper meal before going to the show. It’ll help fuel your body with the energy needed to enjoy your favorite artist’s performances. If the venue permits, ensure to drink fluids before and during the concert. Dehydration can make you feel dizzy, tired and irritable — three things that anyone wouldn’t want to experience during the best day of their lives.

DON’T Put Your Phone Up

Imagine queuing in the line for hours for the mosh pit seat to see your favorite artist up close. Then suddenly, the person in front of you blocks your view, trying to get snaps with their phone. 

Attending a concert is a unique life experience, and it’s normal to feel the need to document it. After all, you paid for this. However, that shouldn’t give you a pass to spoil others’ concert experiences. Avoid holding your phone above your head to avoid distracting everyone behind you. Remember that people around you might be uncomfortable to be included in your videos. Try to keep strangers out of the frame to avoid violating their privacy. Do everything it takes not to be that person at a concert.

DO Take a Shower

While this concert etiquette should be obvious, it’s surprising that some still forget to do this. One thing you can expect from concerts is that you and the people around you will be sweaty. Plan and take a bath within 24 hours of going to the concert. Use your most trusted deodorant so you won’t smell while out and about. Use quality, natural deodorant that doesn’t contain harmful chemicals and won’t influence your hormones.

DON’T Record the Entire Concert

You paid to savor a live show, not be a videographer. Maybe you want to relive or share the experience with your social media followers, but think about it — what’s the purpose of recording an entire concert? The quality and sound quality are likely to be pretty bad, too. Not to mention, your arm may hurt after holding your phone for a while. 

Instead of recording the whole act, film short clips. For instance, record the first minute of the performance (with your phone close to your face, of course) and then enjoy the rest of the act live.

DO Make Friends 

A concert is the perfect setting for meeting like-minded people. Strike up a conversation with your seatmate or the people in the queue. Asking about their favorite songs or opinions on the artist’s latest album makes excellent conversation starters.

If you’re an introvert who wants to make friends, giving away small gifts is the best way to go. If you’re a Swiftie, create bracelets to trade with other fans. You can post your whereabouts on social media so others can meet with you.

DON’T Throw Stuff on Stage

In 2023, Taylor Swift said “it really freaks me out” during her Buenos Aires concert. After a presumed gift landed next to her piano, the pop star paused her performance to address the audience. The same year, Bebe Rexha was hospitalized after a fan threw their phone at the artist. 

Everyone loves gifts, but your favorite artist won’t appreciate it if they or their dancers end up tripping on it. Try to put yourself in their shoes — what would you feel if someone threw you something while doing the thing you love the most? Your best day can quickly become your idol’s nightmare, so avoid throwing gifts on stage.

DO Respect Other Acts

Some concerts, like Coachella, feature multiple acts. You’re not required to love every performing artist, but respect is a necessary concert etiquette. Be respectful of the artists, especially the lesser-known ones, as they will be nervous playing in front of a crowd anticipating bigger acts. Research the set list days before the show to familiarize yourself with the artists and their songs, if possible.

DON’T Cut Line, Hit and Push People

This concert etiquette is a given for any social event. Cutting in line and being rude to other people immediately ruins the vibe, so be mindful about how you act. Don’t push to the front and hurt other concertgoers, even if the crowd gets a little rowdy. If you see someone who has fallen over or looks dazed, don’t hesitate to help them and call for a staff member.

DO Live In the Moment

Many people want to take videos to show off and immortalize their experiences. If you’re one of these individuals, there’s no need to feel bad. However, taking videos takes you out of the moment. Don’t just stand there and take videos — dance and sing your heart out within reason. Do everything you can to immerse yourself in the experience. You worked hard to pay for the ticket, so make it an amazing moment to remember.

Enjoy Your Next Concert

Now you’re all set for your favorite artist’s next concert. It pays to know the do’s and don’ts of attending a show, especially if you’re a first-time concertgoer. Remember these tips to make the most of your experience.