Midsummer Urban Festivals How to Prepare and What to Bring

Due to the recent cold snap, the weather has been extremely cold. Here in Narita, where the Sound House headquarters is located, it’s been in the minus temperatures every morning. I think it's a lot warmer than in the north of Japan, but we Kanto residents who are not used to it are freezing every day.
But recently, the first announcement of the headliners and performers for Summer Sonic has been made! Some sort of weird noise has been coming from my mouth while I was at work. My summer has already started.
Last year, I wrote about a list of things to bring for camping in summer festivals, so this time I’m going to write about ”Midsummer! InExtreme heat! Urban Festival!” I'd like to write about what to bring and how to prepare for the venue.

■ Summer Festivals In Extreme Heat, Mind Set

• Be cool and just enjoy yourself → Even if you are enjoying yourself, don't forget to be aware of your surroundings.
• Drink water frequently → If you drink beer, drink water too. Also, have a good amount of salt.
• Don't hold back under the blazing sun → If you overdo it and collapse, you won’t get to see the live concert.
• Use sun shading items such as hats and towels → Cool towels are recommended.
• Make sure you take breaks →I wish there were two of me!

■ List of things to bring

• Tickets → If you forget your ticket, your summer will end at the entrance.
• Smartphone, electronic money, wallet →Almost all merchants use cashless payment at the venue.
• Towels, hand towels →Wipe your sweat or use as a hade
• Hats and sunglasses →Safety in hot weather
• Sunscreen → Don't underestimate the UV rays in summer
• Wet wipes for disinfectant →Before meals, etc.
• Rain poncho →Compact and even a cheap one from a convenience store will do.

It is recommended to pack the above to be as compact as possible, for example, in a satchel, body bag, or small backpack.

However, some people only carry what they can fit in their pockets. Some say, “I don't need a raincoat!” It's hot, so it’s no problem if I get wet.” (Don't catch a cold though.) Well, even if something happens, there are T-shirts and other items for sale. There are also shops nearby. (*Check the area around the festival venue you're going to and the entrance/exit points.)

One of the good things about festivals in urban areas is unlike festivals in the mountains, they are enjoyable in an easier way. Of course, those travelling from further away will have to do a lot of advance preparation, such as arranging transport, accommodation and overnight luggage, but that can be a lot of fun too.

Can’t wait to hear the second announcement for Summer Sonic!

That’s all.

Here are my recommendations for summer festival goods you can buy at Sound House.↓

Compact foldable hat

Can also be used as a wallet with a card holder.

Cools you off when wet with water

It's not a bag, it's an air conditioner

Check your face while cooling down