Festival Favorites: A Checklist of Essential Items to Bring to ACL Festival
Whether you're new to festivals or a seasoned pro, here are some tips to help you make the most of your work experience!
COMFORTABLE FOOTWEAR
Closed toe shoes are a safety requirement for festival staff and volunteers. Any standard sneaker will do. We like the HOKA ONE ONE. It's not only highly cushioned but also lightweight and breathable, making it a comfortable option for long days on your feet.
FESTIVAL APPROVED BAG
While staff and volunteers are given the flexibility to bring in items required to perform their job, festival security retains the final say on what is permitted. It is advisable to only bring what you can carry on your person and to abide by the Festival's list of allowed and prohibited items for fans, including the ACL Festival Bag Policy.
SUN PROTECTION
Ensure you stay safe in the sun by applying sunscreen before arriving on-site. You can also find sunscreen available at Guest Services. Sunglasses or a hat are a must-have during the day.
STAY HYDRATED
Sustainability is integrated into every aspect of Festival production and planning, and staying hydrated is a fundamental aspect of a safe and enjoyable work experience. The festival provides free water refill stations from Event Water Solutions throughout the park. Let's work together to help make the festival a more environmentally-friendly event. Help us go green and #BYOBottle!
STAY CHARGED
Whether you are accessing online or in-app resources such as maps and schedules, or staying in touch with management, your phone can be a useful tool while on the job. However, your battery may not last through an entire double shift! To be prepared, bring your own backup power or take advantage of the festival's on-site locker and mobile charging service provided by Entertainment Lockers (while supplies last). To reserve in advance of the event or learn more to better direct guests to this valuable resource, click here.
KEEPING TRACK
The festival has a comprehensive loss prevention program for guests that includes a virtual Lost and Found powered by the Liff App. You can proactively prevent loss by registering your phone in advance of the event here or by adding a tracking device, such as an AirTag, to valuable items like keys.
HIGH VISIBILITY WEAR
If you are visiting the festival site during load-in or load-out (for example, for a venue tour or training), you will be entering an active construction site. High-visibility (Hi-Vis) wear is mandatory during these times. To ensure your safety, consider investing in your own Hi-Vis shirt or vest. Guest Services will have a limited supply of Hi-Vis wear available to lend to department personnel on a first-come, first-served basis.
PRACTICAL STYLE
As a festival representative, you will be provided with a uniform shirt to help with identification. Please also prepare for the weather. Shorts are suitable for hot weather, while a warm and/or wind/waterproof layer can be useful for cooler nights or inclement weather. Clear disposable ponchos are available at Guest Services for staff and volunteers in case of rain. Please dress professionally and present yourself in a positive manner.
PREPARE FOR THE UNEXPECTED
The festival has got your back with first aid stations located all over the site, but you can be one step ahead by taking preventative measures. Who knows, you might be dancing your heart out for hours on end after your shift or there could be a sudden downpour, but fear not because having an extra pair of socks will save the day!
CHECK OUT THE MERCH
Don't miss the chance to browse the festival's unique selection of merchandise at the on-site store. Items tend to sell out quickly, so it's best to stop by early. Additionally, festival-goers have the opportunity to earn a prize by submitting a bag of cans to the Rock & Recycle Center, operated by Guest Services.
