Welcome to the tribe! If you’re heading to Lightning in a Bottle (LiB) for the first time, I’m genuinely excited for you. This is more than just a music festival—it’s a creative jungle gym for your soul. As someone who’s danced in the dust, floated in the lake, and made lifelong friends in line for vegan tacos, let me give you the real scoop on how to make the most of your magical weekend.
Passes: 3-Day vs. 5-Day
If you grabbed a 5-day pass, congratulations—you’re in for the full journey. You get to show up Wednesday, set up your tent before the sun is directly overhead, and catch some early workshops and lower-key vibes before the weekend rush. If you’re rolling in Friday with a 3-day pass, don’t stress. Just be ready to hit the ground dancing.
Camping: Choose Your Own Adventure
From car camping to pre-set luxury yurts, there’s an option for every level of dirt comfort. If you like to wake up next to your car with your own gear, grab a car camping pass. Want to just show up and have everything ready? Go for Easy Peasy or Atlaswyld boutique camping. Just know: no matter where you sleep, you’ll hear bass at 3am and someone offering you fruit leather with mystical energy.
What to Pack (and What Not to Forget)
You WILL regret not bringing:
- A headlamp (you’re not finding your tent without it)
- Earplugs (see bass at 3am)
- A reusable water bottle (free water stations everywhere)
- Dust protection (bandana, mask, etc.)
- Footwear that can handle it all (and backups!)
- A flashlight for your port-a-potty missions
Pro tip: bring extra socks, snacks to share, and a sense of humor.
Food, Showers & Other Essentials
Yes, the food vendors are actually amazing. Think more farmers market than county fair. Vegan, gluten-free, and all-around delicious options abound. There are showers in the campground plazas (worth it), lockers to stash stuff, and charging stations if your phone can survive the crowd.
Music? Duh. But Also…
Yes, the lineups slap. But some of the best parts of LiB happen between stages. Explore the immersive art, stumble into a fire-spinning performance, or attend a workshop that accidentally changes your life. The Compass area has talks, yoga, and movement classes that you’ll end up raving about as much as the headliners.
People & Vibes
Expect hugs. Expect glitter. Expect to bond with strangers over shared sunscreen. The people at LiB bring the magic just as much as the music does. Say hi. Ask questions. Offer someone your last electrolyte packet and watch the universe reward you.
Health & Safety
Drink water. Take breaks. Rest. Your body is your temple—and temples need shade. There are on-site medical services and harm reduction teams if you need them, and DanceSafe gives out free earplugs and advice.
Final Words of Wisdom
You don’t need to do everything. Just follow your curiosity. LiB is a choose-your-own-adventure in the truest sense. Whether you’re there for the sunrise sets or the silent tea ceremonies, you’re exactly where you need to be.
See you out there in the dust. I’ll be the one with biodegradable glitter and a giant grin.
— Your Friendly LIB Veteran
Want to learn more about the festival. Check out their website here!
