Top 10 festival tips ahead of Osheaga, ÎleSoniq and Lasso Montreal

Summer in Montreal is synonymous with music festivals. Over the coming weekends, Parc Jean-Drapeau will play host to Osheaga, ÎleSoniq and Lasso Montreal.

Our seasoned festival goers at iHeartRadio Montreal share some of their tips to fully enjoy the experiences:

1.Check the forecast

Despite being summer, weather in Montreal can be so unpredictable. Apart from severe weather, festivals are rain or shine. If you see rain in the forecast, consider bringing a poncho. If you're someone who gets cold quickly, why not bring a light jacket? None of the above? Don't forget your sunglasses and sunblock!

2. Plan your commute in advance

The best way to get to and from Parc Jean-Drapeau is by metro. You'll need to take the Yellow line either from Berri-UQAM station or Longueuil station and get off at Parc Jean-Drapeau station. Avoid long lines at the turnstiles by purchasing your fares in advance. Montreal's transit authority, the STM, offers discounted weekend fares, 24-hour passes, 3-day passes, evening passes and more. You can find a list of various fares and points-of-sale here.

The park also includes several BIXI bike share stations.

3. Make a schedule

Looking to catch your favourite performers? Download the festival app, follow their socials and visit their website to find out when artists are playing. This is the best way to figure out where stages are located and to have an idea of how much time you'll need to get from stage to stage. The festival's platforms also list any delays, artist additions/cancellations and changes to set times.

4. Stay hydrated

It's so easy to get distracted by the live music and activities at a festival. Don't forget to hydrate! Festivals in Montreal include a number of concession stands that sell beverages of all kinds. They also include free water-filling stations on-site. Why not avoid the lines, save a few bucks and bring an empty plastic water bottle?

5. Bring a portable battery pack

As much as the site includes several charging stations, depending on foot traffic, they can sometimes be hard to get to or fill up quickly. Consider bringing a portable battery pack in case your phone dies. 

6. Don't underestimate your footwear

As much as it can be fun to wear your favourite shoes, keep in mind that you will probably be on your feet for extended periods of time! Make sure you'll be comfortable -- a good pair of insoles can make a world of difference! 

7. Find out what items are not allowed before showing up

As with any festival or public outdoor event, there are security checkpoints on the way onto the site. Be sure to consult the festival's website to find out what is and what is not allowed.

As a general rule, the following are NOT allowed:

• animals (except service animals)
• beach balls, soccer balls, frisbees
• camping chairs, long folding chairs, metal or plastic chairs
• sunshades
• detachable camera lenses or lenses longer than 2.5"
• discriminaatory or culturally-appropriated items
• drones
• weapons (firearms, knivers, ammo, pepper spray, toy guns, water guns)
• flammables
• flags and banners
• glass bottles and cans
• hard-sided coolers
• illegal drugs and related paraphernalia (except prescription medication)
• large backpacks
• large sports umbrellas
• laser pointers
• markers or paint pens
• megaphones or instruments
• alcohol
• selfie sticks or monopods
• skateboards
• tents
• walkie talkies

8. Pack hand sanitizer and toilet paper

As much as festival organizers are good about providing appropriate facilities, there's only so much that can be done with large crowds. Consider packing hand sanitizer and some toilet paper in case it runs low.

9. Establish a meeting point

Headed to one of the festivals with a group? Find some landmarks where you can all meet up in case you accidentally split up and can't get a hold of one another.

10. Keep the party going

Although performances must end by 11pm due to local laws, why not keep the party going? Check out the festival's socials and website for official afterparties in the city!
 

Most importantly, have fun, enjoy the music and look out for one another!