A great experience
by lava36 on 9/28/11PIEDMONT PARK - AtlantaRating: 5 out of 5I am a seasoned concert attendee, averaging about one a month for the last two years, but somehow this was my first music festival. Overall, it was a great experience. I was very pleased with the whole day. I got there right as the first act, The Postelles, opened. They had a pretty good show, considering the low number of people there. Walk the Moon proved to be the most personable band of the day and had a great energy. They really interacted with their fans well (came out and painted some faces with face paint as is tradition at all their shows & took pictures). As the day went on, more and more people flooded the park. Eventually you had to push and shove a bit to keep your spot. However, most people seemed willing to have a good attitude if you had a good attitude and remained respectful of their space as much as you can at concerts. Manchester Orchestra was good, if you're into a more head banging than jump up and down crowd. The Black Keys were a crowd favorite. And then there was Coldplay... awesome! I'd seen their live show from Glastonbury on tv, and I have to say, it was equally good. I was a bit disappointed that they ended their set 20 minutes early, but I was honestly just thankful to get to see them live. The crowd was good; I loved hearing everyone singing along.
Disappointments: In order to be anywhere close to the stages for the later shows you had to miss out on the action at the other stage to ensure your spot for the next show. This bummed me out because I really didn't get to see much of Young The Giant and didn't get to see any of Cage the Elephant. It really just depends on your personal preference whether you'd rather be close to the stage for your favorites, or experience all the action from further away.
Best features to take advantage of:
Free products from businesses and chances to win stuff (this is good if you aren't really into one of the bands, or if you get there early)
You are allowed to bring your own empty reusable water bottle or camelback (or one factory sealed bottle of water) and there are water fountains for free refills. Great way to be green and save money
Other: Plenty of Merch and Alcohol Booths (if you're into that and don't mind putting down some cash for it). Good T-shirt designs for the actual festival shirts! Lots of port-a-potties. Not much shade around the stage areas (4 days later and I'm still sunburned after lots of aloe... bring sunscreen). Weather was great, but the ground was muddy from the rain earlier on during the week (wear shoes that you're not afraid to get dirty). Most people took Marta and there was a huge line after the show, but honestly that's to be expected, right?
Great experience. Highly recommended