Hogs for the Cause is this weekend (April 10-11), French Quarter Festival is next weekend (April 16-19) and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival starts later this month! With these and more festivals on our social calendar for the spring and early summer its important we’re all prepared. With that in mind, the editor’s decided to share their must-haves when popping out to a festival. From sunscreen to ponchos, we’re sharing the items we’re bringing to make sure we fest with the best.
*Edit note: these suggestions are for all festivals. Many of the larger festivals are cashless and have other specific rules and regulations. Make sure to check the event websites before heading out to the fests.
New Orleans Magazine/New Orleans Homes editor Ashley McLellan advises for bringing a fanny pack with Band-Aids, cash, sunscreen, a ziplock with toilet paper/wet wipes, disposable poncho and a portable cell phone charger. Plus, a sun hat, shoes you don’t mind getting dirty and good socks (if you’re wearing sneakers). “Bring a good, sun blocking umbrella,” shared McLellan. “You’ll be able to use it to stay cool, but also in the rain, of course.”
St. Charles Avenue/New Orleans Bride editor Andy Myer shares she always brings sun protection of all kinds – sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and light clothing with good coverage. Extra toilet paper. Rubber boots or dark tennis shoes. “I’ve made the flip flops stuck in the sludge mistake too many times,” said Myer. “And, if you’ve got the kids along for the ride, my genius friend Jamie taught me the following trick. Bring a Twister game along. Spread out the mat for the kids to play and groove on, and bonus, it doubles as a waterproof seating area for adults as well.” She added, if you’re able, ride your bike. Parking or finding an Uber is not easy or cheap. And to remember not to skip any crafts tents. For Jazz Fest, when you need to slow down and find some shade the Grandstand is a good spot.
Louisiana Life/Acadiana Profile editor Reine Dugas says, “I always advocate for carrying the least amount as possible, so I’d say good sunglasses, small thing of sunscreen, cash/card and comfortable shoes … maybe bring a festival chair depending on the situation.”
Digital Editor Kelly Massicot makes note to wear comfortable shoes, but ones you don’t mind getting dirty or muddy – especially when headed to Jazz Fest. “I also always bring my Megababe Thigh Rescue,” said Massicot. “There is too much walking around, typically in the heat, to not protect your legs! Then I bring a hand fan and the essentials like my colleagues have already laid out.”
And Biz New Orleans editor Kim Singletary seems to follow suit. She said she brings, “Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen for all, hand held fans, disinfectant wipes, snacks for kids, blanket, phone charger and cash.”
