So once again my hetero life partner comes through. M left me yet another amazing voicemail message (the last awesome one told me that we were going to see David Byrne). She managed to score us backstage passes to Fun Fun Fun Fest. She also found a buyer for the tix we bought ages ago.

So what does one get with backstage passes. Ummm, free stuff… and for the majority of the festival we got to stand right in front of the stage or on stage. M’s big ass camera (BAC) was really helpful in getting us front and center (One of the festival dudes later told me that I had to remove myself from the front of the stage. Only people with media wristbands or BAC’s could go up there. Apparently there were problems).

Anyways, the weekend was a success. We got through it with minimal drama, a shitload of pictures, and I think that we will be removing dust and dirt from ourselves for the next week.

Stay tuned for pictures and the list of shows we caught.

Random Observations:

• The Hipster Bandit- Even the dudes from the Spinto Band had to comment that the hipster scarves were actually functional this weekend. With all the dust it made sense to cover your face with that israeli scarf (or rock the SARS mask like a few brave people).
• Dudes wearing pink - please stop
• Fake moustache- Could it be the right accesory for the corduroy jacket?
• Bad weed- Once again I will say that festival attendees who can actually afford weed are smoking the stuff that the homeless people won’t touch.

Useful Festival Gear:
So I noticed that very few people are prepared for an all day outdoor festival. Granted, the door people search your bags for weapons, booze, and food. But still, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t pack a few things. This is what was in my bag:

• Tissues - also useful when the port-o-potty is out of TP
• Hand Sanitizer or Moist Towlettes
• Visine/Eyedrops
• Extra Sunglasses
• Earplugs - I prefer the reusable swimmers earplugs. I bring disposable ones too, it is a good way to make friends.
• Camera - with extra batteries and memory (note that cameras are not always allowed at festivals but you can check ahead of time).
• A descent size bag to carry all your stuff (your friend may or not be willing to be your sherpa). I carry a messenger bag. M usually has her cycling backpack.
• Cash - not all events take credit or have an onsite ATM
• Empty water bottle - staff might prevent you from taking in water, but they can’t stop you from bringing an empty bottle. You can usually find a water fountain or restroom to fill it up.
• Sunscreen
• Coozie- Most of the time the beer chicks are somewhere in proximity distributing them. Never when you need them though.
• Chapstick
• Sweater/Sweatshirt- It’s good to dress in layers. By the end of the night you will be glad you packed it. I usually stick a hat in my bag for that reason.