I’ve been saying yes to more things lately.
Especially the ones that push me a little out of my comfort zone… like going to music festivals and discovering new artists.
Last summer, I went to Piknic Électronik for the first time (you can read all about it here!).
And last Saturday, I finally made it to OSHEAGA (AKA the Canadian Coachella) for the first time too!
I LOVE any excuse to dress up, but I had nothing to wear, so I made a last-minute trip to Winners the night before. I scored the cutest vest (on sale!) and threw it on with a black tube top, my favourite brown checkered skirt (it has pockets!), a cute choker, and lots of beaded bracelets.
I don’t usually go for that kind of look, but I wanted to try something different. I think I was going for a boho moment? Either way, a bunch of sweet girls complimented my outfit, and it really made my day!
Me at OSHEAGA 2025 (Day 2)
OSHEAGA was a little humid, a little crowded, and it also rained cats and dogs towards the end… but it was also some of the most fun I’ve had in a while (and such a nice break from all the work and running around lately).
So if you’re heading to a music festival soon, here are 8 tips I picked up at OSHEAGA that you can use at your next one too!
1. Arrive early
Even if the first set you care about doesn’t start until later, get there a couple hours before. Why? So you can explore!
There are TONS of booths to check out, many with free snacks, drinks, merch, and games (the Skip the Dishes one was giving out the cutest orange pouches with a bunch of free goodies inside, and they even had a ferris wheel!).
It’s way more chill earlier in the day, and you’ll get to see a side of the festival that’s not just packed crowds and long lines. Not to mention, some of the booths also have rest areas and private washrooms!
2. Wear shoes you don’t mind destroying
It’s pretty sandy, and sometimes even a little muddy (especially if it rains!).
This is not the place for brand new white sneakers, nor shiny black booties, nor anything open-toed. Wear close-toed shoes that are comfy, and can take a beating. Your feet will thank you later when you’re walking from one stage to another (and trust me, they’re not always very close to each other).
Oh, and while we’re at it: avoid wearing white bottoms, and save your pretty heels for brunch (NOT the mosh pit).
3. Stay extra hydrated
It gets hot out there, so drink LOTS of water (and wear sunscreen!).
There are lots of free water refill stations, so take advantage! I like bringing a collapsible silicone bottle, or even just an empty plastic one you can recycle at the end of the night. That way, it doesn’t take too much space in my bag.
Also, speaking of bags: Go for something hands-free like a fanny pack or banana bag (I LOVE my Uniqlo one!). Trust me. Shoulder bags and bulky backpacks will slow you down and leave you sore.
4. You have to eat something
Yes, food can be pricey, but skipping it is a recipe for disaster (especially if you’re drinking!).
If you’re on a budget, eat a big, filling, protein-heavy meal before heading out, and then grab something lighter on site.
My favourites last weekend were the pork BBQ skewers and lumpia from Cuisine de Manille (also hello, Filipino representation!) and the chocolate waffles from the Belairdirect booth.
5. Download the festival app
The entire site is HUGE. So the OSHEAGA app was a complete lifesaver!
You can check the full schedule, see where each artist is playing, and even create your own personalized lineup by saving your must-see acts.
There’s even a searchable site map that shows you where everything is, from food to alcohol to water to the nearest washroom!
6. Don’t rely on social media to find your friends
Internet slows WAY down when everyone’s busy posting, texting, and uploading stories. Snapchat, Instagram DMs, or Facebook Messenger might not even go through. I had one bar most of the time, and even regular texts took a while to send.
Your best bet is to make a plan in advance and stick to it. Choose a clear meeting point in case you get separated. And if you do need to reach someone, keep it simple and just text or call the old-fashioned way.
7. Skip the front of the stage
Unless you’re really trying to shake hands with the artist, the back is honestly better.
It’s usually on a slight hill so you can see everything, and it’s way less crowded. You can breathe, dance, run to the bathroom, and actually move around without having to elbow your way through a sea of people.
Your neck, bladder, and feet will ALL thank you!
8. If you’re thinking about going more than one day, just do it
I get it, festival weekends can add up fast. But if you can swing it financially, I say go for it!
If you girl math it: think about how many of your favourite artists you’ll actually get to see. I got to see Smino, Shaboozey, BBNO$, Gracie Abrams, The Chainsmokers, Tyler the Creator, Lost Frequencies… all in ONE Saturday!
When you break it down like that, multiple days start to look like a pretty good investment. I’m honestly starting to feel like I should’ve gone on Friday too… I missed Glass Animals, Doechii, and The Killers!
Well, that’s it for now!
But I’m getting ready for ÎLESONIQ this weekend (yes, another music festival!), so maybe another blog post soon?
If you’ve got any festival tips of your own, be sure to drop them in the comments. I’m always looking to upgrade my music festival survival game! 🎶
The Lilac Blog 