Top 10 Things to Have When Attending a Folk Music Festival

Top 10 Things to Have When Attending a Folk Music Festival
The Ultimate 3000-Word Guide to Staying Comfortable, Stylish & Prepared for the Rhythms of Folk

Folk music festivals are more than just music events—they’re vibrant celebrations of culture, community, and storytelling. Whether you’re dancing barefoot to acoustic tunes, sipping coffee while strumming a mandolin at a campfire session, or watching the sun set over a main stage, attending a folk music festival is an unforgettable experience.

To fully enjoy every moment—rain or shine, barefoot or booted—you’ll want to arrive prepared. The right gear ensures you’re comfortable, protected, and able to savor everything from the music to the food trucks and artisan stalls. In this guide, we explore the Top 10 Things to Have When Attending a Folk Music Festival, combining practicality and style for the perfect outdoor experience.

1. Comfortable Footwear

#comfortablefootwear #festivals #outdoorcomfort

Folk festivals often mean long hours on your feet: walking between stages, dancing on grassy fields, or queuing for craft cider. Comfortable footwear is a non-negotiable essential.

Recommended Shoes:

• Hiking sandals with ankle support

• Sturdy sneakers for dusty or muddy terrain

• Low-rise boots for cooler weather or multi-day events

Choose shoes that are broken in and weather-resistant. Avoid flip-flops, which offer little protection or support, especially if the weather turns unpredictable.

2. Foldable Chair

#foldablechair #festivalcomfort #outdoorcomfort

While some folk festivals provide limited seating, having your own foldable chair guarantees comfort wherever you roam. Whether you’re front row or back of the crowd, you’ll be thankful for the support.

What to Look For:

• Lightweight and easy to carry

• Built-in cup holders or pockets

• Low-profile designs that comply with venue rules

Bonus points if your chair folds into a backpack or has shoulder straps—making it perfect for long treks between stages.

3. Sunscreen

#sunscreen #sunsafety #festivalcomfort

Spending an entire day under the open sky means protecting your skin is a must. A high-quality sunscreen keeps you safe while you enjoy the music, crafts, and sunshine.

Application Tips:

• Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher

• Apply 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours

• Don’t forget ears, shoulders, and tops of your feet

Opt for water-resistant or sweat-resistant formulas—especially if you’re dancing or hiking to different venues.

4. Reusable Water Bottle

#waterbottle #hydration #festivalcomfort

With long days, dancing, and sun exposure, staying hydrated is crucial. Most festivals offer free water stations—bring your reusable water bottle to keep sipping without buying overpriced bottled water.

Ideal Features:

• Insulated to keep drinks cool

• Wide-mouth for easy refills

• Clip or carabiner for attaching to your bag or belt

It’s eco-friendly, cost-effective, and crucial for your comfort.

5. Blanket or Picnic Mat

#picnicmat #festivalcomfort #outdoorcomfort

Between sets, you’ll want a cozy place to sit, nap, or just stretch out under the trees. A blanket or picnic mat transforms any spot into your own chill zone.

Choose One That’s:

• Waterproof or with a weather-resistant backing

• Easy to fold and carry

• Big enough to share, small enough to pack

Use it during acoustic sets, lunchtime picnics, or as a makeshift dance floor during impromptu performances.

6. Light Jacket or Sweater

#lightjacket #sweater #festivallook #outdoorcomfort

Even if the festival starts under the blazing sun, evenings often cool down quickly. A light jacket or sweater keeps you comfortable once the temperature dips.

Style + Function Tips:

• Choose a zip-up or pullover made from breathable material

• A flannel or hoodie fits perfectly into folk festival fashion

• Packable puff jackets are ideal for chilly nights

Tie it around your waist or stow it in your bag until needed—it’s always better to have layers ready than shiver through a ballad.

7. Festival Bag

#festivalbag #essentialbag #festivallook

You’ll need something to carry your essentials—phone, water bottle, sunscreen, snacks, map, etc.—without it being bulky or heavy. A festival bag is your personal command center for the day.

Ideal Festival Bags:

• Crossbody bags for easy access and security

• Mini backpacks for balanced weight distribution

• Belt bags (fanny packs) for hands-free fun

Choose water-resistant materials and multiple compartments to stay organized on the go.

8. Sunglasses

#sunglasses #festivallook #sunprotection

Sunglasses aren’t just a fashion accessory—they protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce glare, making it easier to enjoy daytime performances.

Look for:

• UV400 protection

• Lightweight frames with durable lenses

• Styles that match your outfit and festival vibe

Retro styles, aviators, or round frames add that bohemian touch that fits right in at any folk festival.

9. Hat

#hat #sunprotection #festivallook

Whether it’s a wide-brim straw hat or a vintage cap, a hat is both stylish and sun-smart. Folk festivals often happen in open fields, and a hat provides much-needed shade.

Popular Options:

• Straw fedoras or panama hats

• Wide-brim sun hats with UPF protection

• Funky bucket hats or bandanas

You’ll not only protect your skin and scalp—you’ll also stand out in photos with a statement headpiece.

10. Portable Charger

#portablecharger #festivaltech #smartphone

Your phone will be working overtime: maps, photos, recording, social sharing, texting friends, and using the festival app. A portable charger ensures you don’t miss a moment due to a dead battery.

Features to Consider:

• Compact size with enough power for 2+ charges

• Fast-charging capability

• Built-in cables or wireless charging

Tuck it into your festival bag and stay connected all day long.

Bonus Tips for Folk Festival Success

🎶 Know the Lineup

Check the schedule before you arrive. Highlight your must-see acts and note stage locations so you can plan your day without stress.

🗺️ Download the Festival Map

Large folk festivals can be spread out across campgrounds, forests, and fields. Download a map or app in advance so you don't waste time getting lost.

🍎 Pack Snacks

Many festivals allow outside food—bring trail mix, fruit, or granola bars to stay fueled without waiting in long food truck lines.

🧼 Wet Wipes & Hand Sanitizer

Don’t forget hygiene essentials. Porta-potties and outdoor eating call for wet wipes and sanitizer in your bag.

🎒 Pack Light, Think Smart

Only bring what you need for the day. You’ll enjoy the music more if you’re not lugging around unnecessary items.

The Ultimate Folk Festival Essentials Checklist

✅ Comfortable Footwear
✅ Foldable Chair
✅ Sunscreen
✅ Reusable Water Bottle
✅ Blanket or Picnic Mat
✅ Light Jacket or Sweater
✅ Festival Bag
✅ Sunglasses
✅ Hat
✅ Portable Charger

Tags for Sharing Your Folk Festival Experience

#comfortablefootwear #festivals #foldablechair #outdoorcomfort #sunscreen #sunsafety #waterbottle #hydration #picnicmat #festivalcomfort #lightjacket #sweater #festivalbag #essentialbag #sunglasses #festivallook #hat #sunprotection #portablecharger #festivaltech

Folk Festival Ready: Feel the Rhythm, Enjoy the Comfort
Attending a folk music festival is all about embracing authenticity, connection, and rhythm. With the right essentials, you’ll enjoy every strum, lyric, and sunset without worrying about your gear. It’s not just about looking good or feeling good—it’s about experiencing the festival in full.

So grab your guitar-pin clutch, lace up your dancing boots, and set out for a weekend of music, friendship, and memory-making that will stay with you long after the last encore.