For three days, Golden Gate Park in San Francisco will be filled with music, food, drinks, and good vibes. It’s now time for the legendary Ranger Dave to come out of hiding for his annual party. Today kicks off day one of Outside Lands 2018 and weeks leading up to the big 3-day festival, they’ve been announcing some major changes. Whether or not you’re still mentally or even physically preparing yourself for today, here are a few things you might need to remember or add to list!
First and foremost, leave your backpack at home
That is unless you have a clear bag! Just like Clusterfest, OSL will be enforcing the clear bag policy to enhance safety and security. Regular size backpacks (or any bags over 6” x 8” x 3”) will NOT be allowed unless they are clear plastic, clear vinyl, or clear PVC. If you really want to carry around things, we suggest dropping by the store beforehand to cop a bag. What is OK? Small bags (up to 6” x 8” x 3”) and fanny-packs. They’re strictly enforcing this so don’t try to even talk your way out of this one.
Feel some magic with GastroMagic
Known to be the little stage tucked away in the corner gathering a huge crowd, this year the GastroMagic stage will be bigger and switch its location to the Lindley Meadow. This stage is home to some great cooking experiences with great chefs and special guests. This year is no different with Bill Nye (yes, THE Bill Nye the Science Guy!), Chef Tiffani Faison, RuPaul’s Drag Race – Shangela, and much more.
Sip some tea at the Bubble Tea Party
Not much as been disclosed about this area but it looks to be an Alice in Wonderland inspired area featuring “tea, bubbles, and other curiosities” in McLaren Pass. At night, make your way back for the glow-in-the-dark party in case you decide you need some time away from checking out the main acts. (Yeah, we thought it was boba tea too)
Spend more time in the grass in the literal Grass Lands
This is kiiiiinda major. Grass Lands will be the first major U.S. music festival to embrace and engage the cannabis culture. This area is exclusive to anyone and everyone 21+ who wants to check out their Smell Wall, enjoy a few treats from The Confectionery, learn from “budtenders” at their Greenhouse and there’s even a lemonade stand! But to answer your question, no cannabis or cannabis products will be available for purchase or consumption.
Expand your mind during D.A.V.E.
Educate yourself by taking some time to listen in on D.A.V.E. (Discussions About Virtually Everything). This brand new speaker series will be in The Barbary featuring speakers California Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom to Josh Clark of Stuff You Should Know.
Pause on the drinks. Spend your money at the Marketplace
OSL will be clearing the way for the West Coast Craft Fair for artists and designers to share/sell their work at the festival. Enjoy over 30+ vendors’ work and support small businesses!
Don’t sleep on The Barbary
Co-curated by SF Sketchfest, The Barbary will house so many amazing comedians traveling far and wide to entertain folks who may need a small break from the music. Included in the lineup is Chelsea Peretti, Michelle Wolf, Phoebe Robinson, and newly added: Jodie Sweetin of Full House and Adam Savage of MythBusters!
OH, did we forget? There will be music.
OBVIOUSLY! Three days, three main stages and several other smaller stages. Get your comfy shoes on or get your padded seats ready if you plan on sticking to one area. Friday kicks off strong with Bay Area’s own Shannon and The Clams opening up the Twin Peaks stage to N.E.R.D. taking center stage ahead of The Weeknd’s closing set.
Phew. Believe us know when we say there’s absolutely no such thing as being bored at Outside Lands?
Heading to Outside Lands? Tweet us (@celebmix) and let us know what you’re most excited about!