The annual one-day festival “Culture Shock” is less than two weeks away So…I decided to compile a list of helpful tips and tricks to make your experience the best it can be!
1. Plan Ahead
The official schedule for Culture Shock has finally been released!! Give yourself time to plan out who you want to see. There are so many amazing local and national acts playing. Make sure to plan your day accordingly with food and bathroom breaks so you don’t miss out on a set you want to see!
2. Pack Smart
Wear comfortable clothes.. and I cannot stress this enough…WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES!! You will be walking and standing for 10 hours in the sun, so please dress accordingly. Dunn Meadow is very grassy and can get muddy so make sure you bring shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. Bring a small bag or backpack to hold essentials like sunscreen, a water bottle, a portable charger, snacks, and a poncho. The best thing about Culture Shock is that it’s free, so you do not need to worry about bringing a ticket, however, please make sure to bring your ID or any medications you might need in case of an emergency.
3. Stay Hydrated and Energized
Being outside all day can be exhausting, please drink plenty of water throughout the day. Franklin Hall and the IMU will be open during Culture Shock, please utilize its magical bathrooms and glorious drinking fountains to refill water bottles. Local Bloomington Vendors will be at Culture Shock for you to refill on food and drinks! Pack energy-boosting snacks like protein bars or nuts to keep your energy up for the entire day.
4. Protect Yourself from the Sun
Since Culture Shock is outdoors, bring sunscreen! The worst thing is being in a horrible mood because you are sunburnt and can’t enjoy the music. Make sure you apply before you go and bring extra to apply throughout the day. Consider bringing a hat or sunglasses to help cover your face from the sun.
5. Plan Meeting Spots
If you are going to Culture Shock with a big group of friends, consider planning a meeting spot. With large crowds, and potentially some spotty cell service, it is important to establish a meeting point in case someone gets separated. Pick a recognizable landmark or spot, “that one tree,” might not do it…
6. Be Open to New Experiences
If for any reason your friends decide not to come to Culture Shock, consider coming alone and making new friends! Bringing extra sunscreen and snacks is a great way to meet new people who may have come underprepared. Explore all the different bands, you might just discover your new favorite artist! Bring Your Own Business (BYOB), IU’s yard sale club, will be at Culture Shock, you might just find your new favorite outfit there!
7. Respect Others and Dunn Meadow
Be mindful of the space around you, especially in crowded areas. Everyone is at Culture Shock to have a good time and it can get crowded. Make sure to check yourself often to make sure you are not making others uncomfortable. Make room so the festival can be accessible not just for yourself, but for others. No harassment or discrimination will be tolerated at Culture Shock. Please dispose of trash properly (in a trashcan) to ensure Dunn Meadow is clean. Make Culture Shock a safe and clean environment for all!
8. Stay Safe
Keep an eye on your bag or belongings at all times. WIUX is not responsible for anything lost or damaged. Use the buddy system, especially once it gets dark, and make sure your friends know where you are at all times. Familiarize yourself with Dunn Meadow and know where to go in case of an emergency.
9. Capture Memories
Consider bringing a portable phone charger to keep your devices charged for photos or videos. Or consider bringing a disposable or digital camera to take fun pictures at Culture Shock! Please tag us (@WIUXFM) in any Culture Shock photos you post!
10. Have Fun and Pace Yourself
Enjoy the music and most importantly, HAVE FUN! Only you know your own limits, please pace yourself and if you get tired consider bringing a blanket or lawn chair to sit in for a break.
Remember that Culture Shock is not just about the music but also about the community, the art, and the experiences. Please come with an open mind, make new friends, and create memories that will last forever! For updates, check out our Instagram @WIUXFM! See you all on April 13th from 1 pm-10 pm at Dunn Meadow!
