It was my first time to this event, held at the First Midwest Amphitheater. I liked it better than I thought. However, there were a few improvements they can make to the festival. First, the site map could have been better, especially given you had to pay for it. It was only $2, but still, they could have done a better job documenting the exits and other key landmarks.
Also, there was nowhere to sit down. It would have been nice if they had some sort of cooling stations, again -clearly on the map or well marked in person. We were there from 11am-7pm and, from time to time, I just needed to sit and take a load off. With the exception of the actual amphitheater, it was hard to find such a location, especially one with shade.
They also promoted a cool concept, the Reverse Daycare, where parents could go to rest while the youngsters enjoyed the music. I used the map to look for this trailer but did not find it during the entire time we were there.
Food and drink was pretty expensive and they do not let you leave and come back with your ticket stub. For our party of four, this proved pretty pricey -about $50 for lunch and then again $50 for dinner for your typical, bland stadium fare (hot dogs, pizza, burgers etc.)
Again, better and not as crazy as I thought given the hardcore music. People were pretty cool and generally well behaved. However, they need to have a plan in mind when the weather is hot to help "old folks" like me. Also, (I know this will sound weird) but a quiet place would be welcome as well. I brought some teenagers and it was cool at first, but after a few hours of the yelling death metal, one just needs to have a place that is quiet for a little bit. read more
