Beale Street Music Festival: A survival guide

Jada Akoto, Graphic Editor|April 12, 2016

Jada Akoo

Everything you need to bring in order to ensure the best time at Beale Street Music Festival

Memphis in May is the biggest celebration in the 901 area. From food to festivals, this monumental event celebrates everything that is Memphis. The Beale Street Music Festival kicks off the month of May by bringing thousands of tourists and locals to the Mississippi River and engulfing them in what the city is most known for: music.

Beale Street Music Festival has been a Memphis tradition since 1977. What started out as a small concert at the corner of Beale Street and Third has become a summer tradition for Memphis . As the festival grew in popularity, it has included musical legends like ZZ Top, Ziggy Marley and B.B. King, as well as artists such as Paramore, Cage the Elephant and Snoop Dogg.

The 2016 lineup includes various genres, in which coordinators are hoping to bring a large and diverse crowd to Tom Lee Park. Headliners this year include Beck, Meghan Trainor and Zedd.

For those who are considering going, there are many things to expect at any music festival. First time goers should expect to be close to the people around them, friends or strangers. Also, wearing comfortable shoes and clothing is a must, says Danielle Schaeffer (12), a fourth year attendee.

“Your feet will hurt by the end of the night cause you’re standing and listening to awesome music and getting really close to everyone around you because everyone wants to be up front,” Schaeffer said.

Beale Street Music Festival is no place for anyone who is afraid of crowds or losing their personal space. Headliners are expected to bring big crowds, so plan ahead when deciding what bands are on your “must see” list.

First time attendees should always be prepared. Pack lightly but efficiently. Deodorant, sunscreen and portable chargers are among the list of recommended items .

Beale Street Music Festival is known for bringing music lovers together. The sense of community the Memphis in May Event brings is a reflection of the community evident in Memphis.

“I think it’s really cool to go for a whole day and be completely surrounded by music and all of these people that kind of like the same things you do,” Mentgen said.