Make the best of the fest

Photo: Sara McKemie

1. You’ll hear the best sound in front of the mixing board. If you want to see your favorite act and hear every pick slide, get in position an hour or two early.

2. If you’re there for the duration, bring a blanket and some friends, and establish a home base.

3. Forget flip-flops. It only takes one stomped toe to ruin your buzz.

4. To edge to the front, start from the side in front of the massive and punishing speaker towers. Cue earplugs (we like Earlove, which don’t stick out).

5. Snag wet naps when you buy grub (or bring your own), since the hand-wash stations inevitably run out of water by mid-afternoon.

6. Going to an after-party? Pack deodorant and an extra shirt.

7. Need to make a choice between two bands you love that are playing at the same time? The one that just finished a new record will be back in town within three months. Go with the other band.

8. If you’ve got a three-day pass, you can come and go. One-day pass holders are not so lucky. But if your pass allows, get a civilized lunch—at The Gage (24 S Michigan Ave, 312-372-4243), Osaka Sushi (400 S Michigan Ave, 312-566-0118) or Artist’s Café (412 S Michigan Ave, 312-939-7855). Otherwise, pack some energy bars.

9. Drink one water for every beer. Er, drink lots of water.

10. Collect a five-foot stack of beer cups to trade in for a T-shirt. Lollapalooza is giving away 120 T-shirts a day to recyclers. Head to the Recycling Center for details.