So You Want To Bring Your Kid to a Festival or Concert?

May 19

Written By MBH

First of all — respect. You're raising the next generation of pit lurkers, merch goblins, and unapologetic scream-singers. But before you slap a tiny band tee on your little one and roll up to the gates, here's what you really need to know. The adult guide for needed items is here.

1. Kids Sometimes Get in Free (But Always Double-Check)

Many festivals let children under a certain age in for free — usually under 5, sometimes under 10. It’s a nice perk if your little concert buddy isn’t quite school-age yet. But don’t assume. Always check the FAQ page of the fest (and take a screenshot because things magically change).

Concert venues typically require everyone, regardless of age, to have a ticket to enter.

2. Health Tips So or your kids You Don’t Tap Out by Noon

Bring a bag! Your pockets won’t hold it all and most places allow for clear bags, especially if you have little ones with needs. Always check the venue site if you’re unsure.
Water, water, water. For you and your kid. Festivals are dehydration playgrounds. Bring a CamelBak if they are allowed (Warped Tour and WWWY both do) you're geared up or grab a foldable water bottle for your little one.
Going to be outside? Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Festival sun is not a vibe. Tiny goths still need SPF.
No sitting in GA. The ground is gross, dangerous, and crowded. Sit near the back or in family-friendly/lawn zones if they’re available.
Bring a mini first-aid kit in your clear bag — band-aids, wipes, baby-safe pain reliever, and hand sanitizer.
Know your kid’s limits. Heat, crowds, noise — overstimulation is real. You will need to take breaks.

3. Safety Tips That Actually Matter

This is not the time to "figure it out as we go."

Take a clear photo of your child that day, full outfit and face. If you get separated, you’ll have something to show staff immediately.
Dress them in something bold and identifiable — neon hats, cartoon shirts, reflective bands. If you can spot them in a crowd in 1 second, you’ve done it right.
Protect their hearing with actual over-ear muffs. Don’t use foam earplugs for kids — they’re not built for tiny ears and do nothing against loud subs.
AirTags are a festival parent’s secret weapon. Clip one to a bracelet, shoe, or hidden pocket. Yes, cell service may suck, but Bluetooth still pings if you’re in range. It’s not perfect — but it’s better than nothing.
If they’re old enough to carry a phone, get a leash or lanyard. They will lose it otherwise.
Set a meeting spot the minute you walk in. Not “near the stage.” Not “by that tree.” Something unmistakable. Giant signs, merch tents, medical booths.
Show them what security or med staff look like. Point out their shirts, lanyards, and booths. If you get separated, that’s who they go to.
If your kid is exploring a bit (tweens and up), have them check in after every stage bounce. No exceptions. Festivals are not malls.

4. Reality Check: Crowds, Chaos & Calling It Early

Let’s talk real talk. Your festival day isn’t going to look like your pre-kid days — and that’s OK.

You're not getting to the barricade. Not with a kid. The crush, the crowd surfers, the non-stop shove from behind — it's a danger zone for small bodies.
GA is a beast. People move fast and don’t look down. If your kid can’t see over a crowd, you won’t see them either if they drop something or crouch.
Pits open up unexpectedly. Even during “chill” sets. The wrong spot at the wrong time can mean getting knocked over, and no one wants to be that parent.
Expect to be in the back. And probably to leave early. Nap schedules and noise tolerance don’t care if your favorite band is about to play.
It’s OK if your kid hates it. Crying during soundcheck, tapping out after one set — all part of the experience. You’re still a badass parent for showing up.

And hey — if your favorite band is the headliner and your kid is still in diapers? Maybe this is the year you call the sitter. You’ll enjoy the show way more — and so will they.

Final Thoughts:

If you came of age screaming “I’m not okay” into a sweaty crowd and now you're packing baby wipes with your wristbands — welcome to the new era. Bringing your kid to a festival doesn’t make you less cool. It just makes the future louder, safer, and a hell of a lot more fun.