Recent buzz on r/festivals centered on whether festivals are more uncomfortable when it’s too hot or too cold. The verdict? Excessive heat takes the crown as the tougher adversary for festival-goers.
Why Heat Wins the Discomfort Crown
- Limited Relief: Heat offers fewer options to cool off — tents become ovens, shade is scarce, and hydration alone doesn’t fully combat the fatigue.
- Sleep Disruption: Hot nights in cramped tents make sleep elusive, worsening exhaustion.
- Safety Concerns: Higher risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and sunstroke.
Cold Has Its Own Challenges, but It’s More Manageable
- Layering up is effective and common practice.
- Campfires and cozy gear can turn cold nights into memorable moments.
- Movement and dancing can feel restricted by bulky clothes but are generally less detrimental than heat’s effects.
Rain Remains the Ultimate Festival Mood Killer
While temperature is a longtime hotspot for debate, many agree that rain and severe weather are the most disruptive. Weather cancellations and muddy fields bring their own set of woes, as seen in numerous recent events.
Festival Organizers Responding to Extreme Weather
- Hinterland Festival has pioneered a ticket refund guarantee if temperatures hit 90°F, reflecting rising attendee concern about heat.
- Movement Festival in Detroit has weathered delays but keeps the energy going despite disruptions.
Final Takeaway
Personal preparedness shapes individual experience, but across the board, heat poses a more significant challenge than cold at festivals. Rain and storms, though less predictable, definitively have the largest impact on festival mood and operations.
Stay hydrated, pack appropriate gear, and keep an eye on your festival’s weather policies as warming trends continue shaping the festival landscape.
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Source: r/festivals