9 Ways To Meet People At Festivals
Festivals are a fantastic place to meet new people, thanks to the shared love of music, art, and fun. Here are nine practical ways to connect with others at your next festival:
- Arrive Early: Set up a welcoming space with interactive elements like games or snacks to encourage conversations.
- Join Workshops: Participate in festival activities like yoga, arts, or music sessions to meet people with similar interests.
- Engage Online Beforehand: Use platforms like Facebook, Reddit, or Radiate to connect with attendees and plan meetups.
- Opt for Social Camping: Choose community-focused campsites or glamping options to mingle with others.
- Use Totems and Conversation Starters: Bring a unique totem or ask open-ended questions to spark chats.
- Visit Chill-Out Zones: Relax in quiet areas where conversations happen naturally.
- Share Items: Offer sunscreen, water, or small items to break the ice.
- Talk in Queues: Strike up light conversations while waiting for food, drinks, or the loo.
- Stand Out with Accessories: Use stylish, functional festival gear like Dansu rave towels to start conversations.
Festivals bring people together in a lively, welcoming environment. Whether you're sharing a drink, joining a workshop, or simply chatting in line, these tips can help you form connections that last beyond the event.
HOW TO MAKE FRIENDS AT RAVES
1. Arrive Early and Create Shared Spaces
Getting to the festival early has its perks - it helps you claim a prime spot, sort out practicalities like parking and queues with ease, and gives you the chance to set up a space that naturally draws people in. A well-thought-out communal area can become a magnet for conversation and connection.
Consider adding interactive elements near your spot to encourage others to approach. Think of a photo booth with festival-themed props, a giant Jenga game, or even a DIY snack station. These simple yet engaging activities not only break the ice but also keep people around long enough for meaningful conversations to spark. These ideas can also lay the groundwork for more interactive experiences using games or technology.
Games like scavenger hunts or collaborative puzzle challenges are excellent for breaking down social barriers. They create opportunities for teamwork and help strangers become friends. Technology can amplify this effect too - imagine setting up a social media wall featuring a festival hashtag. This kind of digital engagement worked wonders at Citrix Synergy, where over 30,000 approved posts were displayed in just three days, reaching an audience of more than 30 million on X.
The secret to success is making your space inviting, not exclusive. Small touches like branded signage can signal that you're open to meeting new people and make passers-by feel welcome. By arriving early and designing your area thoughtfully, you’re not just setting up a spot - you’re creating a hub for connection and helping to enhance the festival's inclusive vibe.
2. Join Festival Activities and Workshops
Festival workshops are a fantastic way to connect with others while engaging in shared tasks. These sessions naturally dissolve social barriers, as everyone is focused on the same activity. Plus, they offer a hands-on experience that adds depth to the overall festival vibe.
Choose workshops that match your interests to meet people who share your passions. For example, Lost Village Festival offers creative sessions, Buddhafield Festival hosts wellness workshops like yoga and meditation, and WOMAD Festival provides more than 80 free workshops for adults and 200 for children - a treasure trove of opportunities to connect.
"These interactive sessions offer festival-goers the opportunity to engage deeply with various subjects, ranging from arts and crafts to music, dance, wellness, and more."
- Festival Calendar UK
Workshops create a space where shared learning brings people together, sparking conversations as participants tackle challenges side by side.
To make the most of these opportunities, download the festival app to browse the full programme and secure your spots in advance. Planning ahead ensures you can attend the workshops that excite you most.
Don’t shy away from trying something new. Exploring unfamiliar workshops can uncover hidden talents and introduce you to a diverse group of people.
When you’re in a workshop, take the chance to fully engage - ask questions, offer help, and show interest in what others are creating. A great example of this was seen in a collaborative workshop series where CDT students teamed up with local artist Steph Tudor. They explored themes of nature, sustainability, and creativity, and the experience highlighted how shared learning can lead to meaningful, lasting connections.
"I really loved meeting the members from the groups we worked with for this project – to witness how they engaged with the science that underpinned the creative activities, and to see people being proud of what they had created."
- Steph Tudor, Local Artist
3. Connect Through Online Communities First
Think of online communities as the virtual equivalent of setting up a welcoming space at a festival. By engaging online before the event, you can lay the groundwork for meaningful connections and ensure a smoother, more enjoyable experience when you arrive. These early interactions can help break the ice and make on-site meetups feel natural.
Platforms like Facebook, Reddit, and official festival apps are great places to start. Just search for your festival’s name, and you’ll likely find groups where attendees share tips, organise meetups, and connect with others who share their interests.
For a more targeted approach, check out Radiate, a platform designed specifically for connecting people attending the same event. It’s an easy way to find your crowd before the music kicks off. Similarly, tools like Festiplannr allow users to share schedules and coordinate meetups, making it simple to sync plans with your future festival friends.
"Suggestions and chat for possible meetups and gatherings of like-minded festival-goers who are keen to make new festival friends." - Festival Pro
Once you’ve joined a group or platform, don’t be shy - introduce yourself and join the conversation. You could even propose a casual meetup, like gathering near a specific stage or grabbing a bite together. These small steps can turn online connections into real-world friendships.
4. Choose Social Accommodation Options
Opting for social camping instead of isolating yourself in a solitary tent can lead to instant connections with fellow festival-goers.
At Reading Festival, for example, there are community camps designed to cater to different preferences. The Valley is ideal for solo travellers looking to mingle, The Glitterball Grove focuses on fostering a sense of community, The Meadow appeals to eco-conscious campers, and The Garden offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. Glamping options at festivals like Glastonbury, Bestival, and Latitude also provide a mix of comfort and social interaction, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
But it’s not just about where you sleep - it’s about how you engage. Many campsites go beyond the basics, offering activities that bring people together. Some organise outdoor adventures like gorge scrambling, paddleboarding, rock climbing, or abseiling for groups. Others focus on simpler shared experiences, such as games or group activities near the pitches. Community camps often feature shared spaces like communal kitchens, campfires, or even collaborative projects, all of which help create a welcoming environment. These shared moments naturally spark conversations and build connections.
And here’s a simple tip: bring along a few extra drinks, like beers or seltzers, to share with your neighbours. It’s an easy way to break the ice and start a conversation.
5. Use Conversation Starters and Festival Totems
Festival totems - those vibrant flags and quirky displays - are more than just fun accessories. They serve as beacons in the crowd, helping your friends spot you while also drawing in others who share your sense of humour or interests. They're conversation starters in their own right.
Pick a totem that says something about you. For instance, at Bonnaroo 2024, Matias Alvarez from Indiana brought along a SpongeBob SquarePants dancing meme as his totem because it matched both his personality and the festival's playful atmosphere. Meanwhile, a group from Raleigh, North Carolina - Lennon Terry, Stephanie Robins, and Montgomery Sprague - opted for a broom with a sign that simply said "MOP" on both sides, designed to confuse and amuse passers-by, sparking plenty of conversations. Another example is Daniel Gwozdz and his son Matrix, who created a firefighter-themed totem complete with a toy fire truck and LED lights, attracting others with similar interests.
When designing your totem, go for bold colours and a theme that reflects your passions - whether that's a nod to pop culture, a clever inside joke, or something deeply personal. Some festival-goers even turn their totems into keepsakes by having others sign them, adding a layer of shared memories.
Totems aside, starting conversations can be as simple as asking open-ended questions. Try something like, "Which act are you most excited to see?" or "What brought you to this festival?" Observing your surroundings can also inspire great icebreakers - comment on someone's unique outfit or ask about their experience at a particular stage.
Festivals are the perfect setting for connecting with others, as the atmosphere naturally lends itself to endless conversation topics. You could ask about someone's favourite festival moments, how they got into a specific genre, or what keeps them coming back year after year. By listening closely and asking follow-up questions, you'll show genuine interest and keep the conversation flowing. Most people at festivals are in a laid-back, social mood, so don't hesitate to strike up a chat. These small efforts can lead to meaningful connections and unforgettable memories.
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6. Visit Social Spaces and Chill-Out Zones
Social spaces and chill-out zones at festivals are becoming more than just a place to unwind - they're turning into hubs for connection. Festival organisers are increasingly dedicating areas where attendees can escape the intensity of the main stages, recharge, and engage with others in a calmer setting. These chill-out zones and wellbeing tents create a perfect environment for meaningful conversations without the noise and chaos.
Take Download Festival, for example. It offers a variety of chill-out spaces and sensory calm areas, along with Flow State Wellness sessions that include yoga, meditation, and sound baths. Similarly, Glastonbury Festival has long provided sensory calm spaces in areas like its Accessible Campsite and Green Fields. Meanwhile, Reading and Leeds Festivals cater to similar needs with quiet zones and accessibility services.
These spaces are especially important for those who might find the festival atmosphere overwhelming. With over 15% of the UK population being neurodivergent, such zones offer a vital escape from sensory overload. Sheelagh Connelly from Frazzled Cafe puts it perfectly:
"A dedicated calm space offers people a choice. And sometimes, knowing that choice is available is what matters most."
The beauty of these spaces lies in how naturally they encourage interaction. When you're both taking a breather, it's easy to strike up a conversation about the acts you've just seen or how you're enjoying the festival. That shared need for a quiet moment creates an instant connection.
Mid-afternoon tends to be a great time to visit these zones. As energy levels dip, people gravitate towards refreshment stands, shaded spots, or areas with free Wi-Fi, often lingering long enough to chat. Activities like yoga or meditation sessions also bring together like-minded individuals, sparking instant camaraderie.
The relaxed vibe of these spaces makes conversation flow effortlessly. Without the rush of moving between stages or battling crowds, people are more open to interaction. A simple comment on someone’s festival outfit or asking about their favourite moment of the day can lead to deeper discussions about music, travel, or shared passions.
Research from Imperial College London highlights the power of these spaces for building connections. PhD student Rosie Riley shared her observations:
"It's been amazing to see how people have just wandered over to ParkUp, sat down on one of our benches in the shade and started chatting to someone next to them. The potential opportunities these pocket parks can bring in terms of social cohesion and community building are huge."
These zones aren’t just about relaxing - they're about fostering connections and creating moments of community within the festival experience.
7. Share Items and Offer Help
Festivals are all about connection, and sharing items or lending a hand is one of the easiest ways to strengthen those bonds. The sense of community and generosity that defines festival culture naturally brings people together.
Practical items and quirky festival goodies are perfect icebreakers. Offering essentials like sunscreen, water, snacks (think lollipops or gum), earplugs, or even a lighter can spark friendly conversations with fellow festival-goers. On the playful side, festival trinkets like kandi bracelets (a staple in rave culture), glow sticks, stickers, temporary tattoos, or diffraction glasses add a fun and memorable element to your interactions.
As the Festival Lawyer aptly puts it:
"One of the easiest ways to make new friends at a music festival is to share an item your festival neighbour forgot to bring (a lighter, handwipes etc.)."
There are countless stories of how small gestures make a big impact. At the Phoenix Lights festival in April 2018, for instance, a festival-goer handed a rubber toy to someone feeling unwell from the heat, saying it might help distract them. That same toy was later passed on to a panicked girl, creating a chain of kindness and support.
Timing and approach are key when offering help. Look for natural opportunities - if someone is sunburnt or stuck in a long queue, a simple "Need some water?" or "Want some sunscreen?" shows you care. Always ask before sharing consumables or personal items to respect boundaries and ensure hygiene.
These small, thoughtful acts can create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re lending a hand or sharing something useful, these gestures go beyond the moment, building a web of friendly connections that often last long after the festival ends. Generosity opens the door to deeper interactions and makes the festival experience even more special.
8. Start Conversations in Queues and Waiting Areas
Festival queues - whether you're waiting for food, drinks, or the toilets - are great places to strike up a conversation. These shared moments create a natural setting for connecting with fellow festival-goers.
The British love for queuing makes these spaces ideal for casual chats. Just remember to respect personal space - about an arm's length - and keep the conversation light and friendly.
Not sure how to start? Try commenting on the music, complimenting someone's outfit, or asking about their favourite part of the day so far. Topics like music, food, or the festival’s location are great icebreakers. It’s best to steer clear of personal questions about money or age, as those can feel intrusive.
Being in the same situation - waiting in line - makes conversations feel more organic. A simple, "How's your festival going so far?" can open the door to a fun discussion about the day’s highlights.
Your body language matters just as much as your words. Keep your posture open and friendly, maintain eye contact, and use a warm tone to make others feel comfortable. If someone seems uninterested, respect their space and move on. Longer queues give you more time to build rapport, so start with light observations and gradually move into topics like favourite bands or memorable festival moments.
"We engage in self-disclosure over some period of time – typically lots of time – and icebreakers are simply meant to hasten that",
explains psychologist Anton Villado.
A genuine compliment can also go a long way. Festivals are a hub for bold and creative fashion choices, so pointing out something you admire - like saying, "Your glitter is amazing!" or "Those boots are fantastic!" - can lead to a meaningful connection. As you get better at sparking conversations in queues, don’t forget that your festival accessories can also be a conversation starter for the next encounter!
9. Stay Fresh and Stand Out with Festival Accessories
Festival accessories do more than just add flair - they keep you comfortable and make you approachable to fellow festival-goers. When you're dancing for hours in a sea of people, staying fresh isn't just about feeling good; it's about making genuine connections.
To stay fresh and leave a lasting impression, your accessories need to be as functional as they are stylish. Staying cool and dry is a must when navigating crowded dance floors or basking under the sun at outdoor stages. Enter Dansu rave towels - crafted specifically for these high-energy moments. Made with ultra-absorbent microfibre, these towels ensure you stay dry and refreshed throughout the day. At £29.95, they’re lightweight, quick-drying, and compact - ideal for tossing into your festival bag without adding bulk. By keeping you comfortable, these towels help you focus on what really matters: enjoying the music and connecting with others.
Of course, style matters too. Dansu's bold designs, like Flower Power, Sound Waves, and Gun Finger, aren’t just eye-catching - they’re conversation starters. When someone spots your vibrant gear, it’s an easy way to break the ice and strike up a chat.
These towels also come with practical perks. A built-in metal grommet lets you hang them at your campsite or clip them to your bag, keeping them within easy reach. Their portability means you can take them everywhere without the hassle of lugging around a standard towel.
Festival gear is also a way to express who you are. Whether it’s through bold patterns or nods to musical vibes, the right accessories signal that you’re part of the festival’s energy. They make it easier for like-minded people to find you in the crowd, creating a sense of belonging and shared experience.
Feeling fresh isn’t just about hygiene - it’s about confidence. Thanks to Dansu's sweat-wicking and odour-resistant properties, you can dance the day away without worrying about how you’re coming across, making your interactions more relaxed and authentic.
For those looking to take their festival style up a notch, Dansu offers bundle deals: the Dance Duo (two towels for £45.95) and the Mainstage Set (four towels for £89.95). With multiple designs, you can mix and match to suit your mood, while doubling your chances of sparking conversations.
Your accessories don’t just add to your look - they become part of your festival story. When they’re both stylish and functional, they naturally invite questions and create opportunities for deeper connections with fellow festival-goers.
Comparison Table
Here's a handy guide to help you decide which methods suit your festival vibe and comfort level. This table breaks down the ease and impact of each approach across various festival scenarios.
| Method | Ease of Use | Effectiveness | Best Festival Scenarios | Preparation Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arrive Early and Create Shared Spaces | Moderate | High | Multi-day camping festivals, smaller boutique events | High – requires planning and setup |
| Join Festival Activities and Workshops | Easy | Moderate | Festivals with diverse programming, wellness-focused events | Low – just check the schedule |
| Connect Through Online Communities First | Easy | Moderate | Large festivals with an active social media presence | Moderate – requires pre-festival engagement |
| Choose Social Accommodation Options | Easy | High | Festivals offering camping or shared lodging | Low – just book the right accommodation |
| Use Conversation Starters and Festival Totems | Moderate | Moderate | Crowded festivals where standing out matters | Moderate – requires creativity and boldness |
| Visit Social Spaces and Chill-Out Zones | Easy | Moderate | Festivals with designated relaxation areas | None – simply show up and be present |
| Share Items and Offer Help | Easy | High | Hot weather festivals, camping events | Low – bring extra supplies to share |
| Start Conversations in Queues and Waiting Areas | Easy | Moderate | Any festival with queues (food, toilets, entry) | None – take advantage of natural situations |
| Stay Fresh with Festival Accessories | Moderate | High | Dance-heavy festivals, hot weather events | Moderate – requires thoughtful gear selection |
If you're new to the festival scene, easy options like visiting chill-out zones, striking up conversations in queues, or sharing small items are great starting points. These require little effort but can create meaningful interactions.
Looking for deeper connections? Arriving early to set up shared spaces, picking social accommodation, or staying fresh with well-chosen festival accessories can make a big difference. For example, multi-day camping festivals or events in hot weather are perfect for these approaches, as they naturally encourage bonding over shared experiences and comfort.
And don't underestimate the power of staying comfortable and stylish. Accessories like Dansu's premium rave towels not only keep you feeling fresh but also help you stand out on the dance floor - an easy conversation starter in itself.
Ultimately, the best methods depend on your personality and the type of festival you're attending. Choose what feels right for you, and you'll be set for stronger connections and unforgettable moments.
Conclusion
Festivals are a natural breeding ground for new connections. With their mix of shared musical tastes, creative energy, and an atmosphere charged with positivity, they create the perfect setting for friendships to ignite and grow well beyond the event.
The nine strategies outlined tap into the unique magic of festivals - whether it’s arriving early, joining workshops, or simply chatting while waiting in line. Each approach helps you immerse yourself in the festival vibe, blending music, creativity, and a sense of community.
"Outdoor festivals have played a significant role in the evolution of humanity by fostering social connections, promoting cultural exchange, and encouraging creativity and self-expression." – NYX Festival
Data backs this up: live music has been shown to increase well-being by 21%, and 75% of young people attend festivals to express themselves and share experiences. These events naturally attract people who value creativity and genuine connections, making them an ideal space for meaningful interactions.
Even practical items like Dansu’s premium rave towels can help break the ice - offering a helping hand or receiving a compliment can lead to a friendly conversation and, who knows, maybe even a lasting bond.
It’s no surprise that 72% of event marketers emphasise the role of community events in fostering a sense of belonging and unity. Festivals are a perfect example of this, bringing people together through shared joy and collective experiences.
Once the festival ends, don’t let those connections fade. Swap social media details, plan to meet up again, and keep the dialogue alive. Many festival friendships evolve into enduring relationships, built on shared values and interests that go far beyond the music.
So next time, smile at the person dancing next to you, join a drum circle, or offer to share a snack. The festival community is open, welcoming, and full of opportunities for connections that can truly last a lifetime.
FAQs
How can I use social media to connect with other festival-goers before the event?
Social media offers an awesome way to connect with other festival-goers before the big day. Start by following the festival’s official pages or joining groups on platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Keep an eye out for event hashtags - they’re perfect for sharing your excitement, finding others who are attending, and jumping into conversations. Commenting on posts, engaging with others, or even starting your own discussions can help you build some early connections.
If the festival has community threads or group chats, don’t hesitate to introduce yourself there. These spaces are often buzzing with people who share the same enthusiasm for the event. By being active and approachable online, you’ll find it much easier to meet and bond with others when the festival finally kicks off.
How can I create a fun and inviting space at a festival to meet new people?
Creating a welcoming vibe at a festival is all about blending comfort with a touch of fun. Start with a relaxed chill-out zone - think soft seating, cosy blankets, and colourful decorations that invite people to unwind and chat. To keep the energy flowing, include interactive activities like face painting, casual games, or group art projects that naturally draw people together. Want to add something extra? A themed area or a standout feature, like a photo wall or a quirky prop corner, can grab attention and spark conversations. These small but thoughtful touches create a warm, social space where people feel at ease and connections can bloom.
What are some functional festival accessories that can also spark conversations?
To make a statement and spark conversations at festivals, go for accessories that combine practicality with a touch of flair. Dansu’s rave towels are a standout choice. These towels are lightweight, super absorbent, and feature bold, eye-catching designs inspired by dance culture. Perfect for mopping up after an energetic session on the dance floor, they also double as a conversation starter thanks to their striking style.
You could also opt for vibrant jewellery, LED accessories, or playful items like quirky glasses or hats. Pick pieces that are tough enough to withstand the festival vibe while letting your personality shine through.