15 Tips to Make Friends, Stay Safe, and Have Fun at Solo Music Festivals

Solo music festival attendance is on the rise. In recent years, surveys show that up to 30% of festivalgoers have attended at least one major event on their own. Yet, despite this growing trend, many still hesitate to take the leap due to fears of loneliness, safety concerns, or simply not knowing how to make the most out of a solo festival experience.

How do you navigate the crowds, make new friends, and stay safe when you’re by yourself? This guide draws on real-world experience—from attending Afro Nation in Portugal solo—and delivers fifteen actionable tips for thriving at your next festival on your own. Whether you’re naturally social or more reserved, you’ll discover practical ways to connect with others, look after yourself, and have an unforgettable adventure.

Common Concerns About Going to a Festival Alone

Is solo attendance really normal?

Absolutely. Major events like Glastonbury, Lollapalooza, and Afro Nation report a significant percentage of attendees traveling alone. Experts in event psychology observe that music festivals are some of the friendliest environments for solo adventurers, thanks to the shared passion for music.

Is it safe?

Like any form of solo travel, festivals have inherent risks. However, safety comes down to preparation and awareness, not just numbers. Festival organizers and security teams are well-versed in caring for attendees, and as long as you follow basic safety guidelines, solo attendance can be just as secure as going with friends.

Will it be fun?

Many solo festivalgoers report that being on their own actually heightens their enjoyment. Attending by yourself means full freedom to explore your favorite acts, follow your own schedule, and meet people organically. Studies conducted by social researchers at British universities suggest that shared experiences in large groups—especially musical ones—naturally break down barriers, making it easy to connect.

How do I meet people?

Music festivals are ideal settings for making friends. Surrounded by thousands who share your taste in music, you’ll find conversation starters everywhere. According to festival networking experts, open-mindedness, shared activities, and digital communities provide ample opportunity for connection.

Accommodation Choices that Encourage Socializing

Start by choosing where you’ll stay. Hostels remain a top pick for solo travelers because they naturally foster interaction. Many hostels near festival sites have a high concentration of other attendees, making it easy to find companions before you even arrive at the venue. Check hostel reviews for mentions of festival-goers, and consider dorm-style rooms to maximize your social opportunities.

Camping is another excellent option. If your festival offers a campground, you’ll find communal areas and a strong sense of camaraderie. Shared chores, late-night conversations, and the collective excitement make it simple to strike up friendships with neighbors.

Social Activities and Networking Before the Event

Many festivals run side activities such as yoga sessions, dance workshops, and art installations. These small-group experiences help ease social anxiety and foster genuine connections. It’s also wise to join online communities tied to the festival—Facebook groups, Reddit threads, or official app forums—where attendees organize meetups, share tips, and often arrange pre-event gatherings. Engaging online before the event means you might arrive already knowing a few friendly faces.

Most such festivals also often set up interactive gaming platforms. It is often possible to play board and card games. If the festival does not offer such entertainment, you can still play on your smartphone. For example, the crash game Aviator is very popular among young people today, where you can bet real money. It is available in a mobile app. You can find a selection of operators offering apps with this game on special information sites, such as Aviator Apps.

In-Person Friend-Making Strategies

Approaching new people can feel daunting, but music festivals provide easy conversation starters: “Who are you excited to see perform?” or “Is this your first time here?” For introverts, concise questions or comments about outfits, national flags, or creative accessories work well.

Consider bringing a festival totem—an easily recognizable item like a decorated sign, unique hat, or bold T-shirt. Totems not only help locate friends in crowds but also attract attention and invite conversation. Keep your totem safe and considerate, avoiding large objects that might block others’ view.

Above all, remain open and proactive. Smile, make eye contact, and remember that most are in a similar mindset: eager to meet new people and share unique experiences.

General Safety Principles

Personal safety remains a cornerstone of solo travel, whether you’re attending with friends or alone. Trust your instincts, stay alert, and avoid risky situations. Even among crowds, it’s important to guard your belongings and look out for your own wellbeing.

Practical Tips on the Ground

Once you’ve befriended hostel-mates or campsite neighbors, arrange to share rides to and from the venue. Group transportation reduces costs and adds a layer of security. If you connect with new friends at the festival, agree on a clear meeting point in case you get separated—cell service is notoriously unreliable at large events.

Food and drink safety is crucial. Always keep your beverage in sight and avoid accepting drinks from strangers. Festival medical teams and advocacy groups stress the need for vigilance, as spiking incidents, although rare, are a real concern.

Money, Valuables, and Emergency Preparedness

Carry both cash and cards; some vendors may prefer one over the other, and access to backup funds is essential in emergencies. Limit what you bring to the essentials—a small crossbody bag or fanny pack is ideal for keeping valuables close. Festival veterans also recommend carrying a portable power bank to ensure your phone never dies, especially when you need to contact friends or navigate home.

Before you arrive, download an eSIM for temporary data service. Providers like Airalo or Jetpac offer flexible, short-term plans. This allows you to stay connected without the hassle of local SIM cards, crucial for maps, translation apps, and emergency information.