Concert Etiquette
HOW NOT TO BE THAT PERSON:
there are unwritten rules that keep the concert experience amazing for everyone. Don’t worry, I’m here to break them down—because if you’re acting out, someone will eventually check you (or they should).
1. GENERAL ADMISSION: IT’S A SHARED SPACE, NOT YOUR PERSONAL TERRITORY
General Admission means people are going to move around—it’s part of the deal. Blocking someone from moving forward, going laterally, or leaving is a bad look.
Let People Move: If someone needs to rejoin their friend group after a bathroom or concession break, don’t be the gatekeeper.
Assess the Situation: If it’s so packed that moving is genuinely impossible without stepping on toes, communicate and be considerate.
Know Your Spot: The front of the stage is always tighter. If that’s not your vibe, step back and let others take your spot.
Remember, GA is a shared experience. The more you cooperate, the better the vibe for everyone.
2. DON’T BE RUDE: THE FLOOR IS NOT YOUR LOUNGE
Nothing kills the energy like someone sitting on the floor or reading a book during a band’s set. We get it—you’re not there for that band. But let’s not be disrespectful to the artists or the fans who are excited. Stay engaged or step out for a break.
3. FILMING: 30 SECONDS, NOT A MINI-DOCUMENTARY
Yes, we all want to remember the night. No, we don’t need your entire Instagram story filled with grainy videos of every song. Here’s the rule: 30 seconds per song, max. Grab your clip, put your phone away, and live in the moment.
Think about it—would you rather be watching through your screen or screaming the lyrics with your favorite band? Exactly. Plus, the rest of us don’t want to dodge your phone all night.
4. CROWD SURFING: KNOW YOUR LIMITS
I love crowd surfing. I even wrote a “HOW TO: CROWD SURFING DO’S AND DON’TS”. But let’s talk physics: If you’re going up, the crowd has to carry you. That means size, weight, and frequency matter.
One Surf Per Song, Max: Nobody wants to see you up there every 30 seconds. Spread the love, share the spotlight, and sit down occasionally.
Physics 101: The crowd can lift a large plank of wood much easier than a medicine ball. If the bouncers will be struggling to catch you, maybe it’s time to sit this one out.
Be Mindful of Others: Not everyone wants your Converse in their face. Communicate, wait for the right moment, and go up with care.
5. THE PIT: IF IT OPENS NEXT TO YOU, DON’T THROW ELBOWS
Look, you’re at a rock concert—pits happen. We even make shirts stating “Follow Me To The Pit”. If a mosh pit opens up next to you, don’t be the person throwing elbows or starting fights because you don’t want to be involved. Just step aside and let the chaos unfold.
Are you paying attention? If the band is actively encouraging a pit or calling for crowd involvement, this isn’t the time to stand your ground. You walked through the door knowing this was a possibility, so embrace it—or at least politely get out of the way.
6. CHECK YOURSELF (AND OTHERS)
Look, concerts are communal, and it’s on all of us to keep the vibe alive. If someone’s being a nuisance—filming too long, crowd surfing every song, or acting recklessly—say something. It doesn’t have to be confrontational. Sometimes a little public shaming does the trick.
Pro Tip: “Wow, you’re filming again? Did you get a press pass I didn’t know about?” Subtle, effective, and hopefully, the wake-up call they need.
Emo Never Died And Neither Did the Scene
Concert etiquette isn’t about being uptight—it’s about respecting the music, the band, and the people who make the night special. Be mindful, stay present, and don’t be afraid to check someone (politely or not) when needed. Because at the end of the day, we’re all here for the same reason: to lose ourselves in the music, scream every word, and make memories that last a lifetime.
If you’re ready to take on the barricade, you’ll want to look the part. Check out our emo merchandise collection “Emo Never Died” for your next emo concert, or our Throw Me Sticks and Picks T-shirt, perfect for signaling your dedication to the pit—or the rail.
