Don't be a Phone-y

Photo by Ella Jane Myers

Let’s be real: It’s 2019 baby, and (nearly) no one goes anywhere without their phone.

Sure, the Up Here app is the best way to keep track of the festival schedule and get notified for pop up shows, making sure you don’t miss a second of the excitement. But, at the risk of sounding like one of those PSAs that play before movies at the theatre: “During the show, your phone is distracting to others.” And to yourself!

Taking in everything that makes Up Here so special is tough to do when you’re three months deep in an Instagram dive of your hairdresser’s brother’s dog’s profile.

There’s a strong urge that we seem to have to reply quickly to every text, to check notifications as soon as they pop up, and to post updates from every show. I’ve been to my fair share of concerts, and I have never, ever (and I mean ever), gone back and watched the videos I took during the shows. It would have been undeniably better to appreciate the moments as they were happening around me.

For most of us, we aren’t working during the festival, meaning that capturing footage, photos, and being on our phones for more than a snap or two isn’t doing anything but taking away from being in the moment. Taking away from enjoying the beauty that is live music and art. Taking away from spending time with the cool people who are also enjoying the festival.

With all that in mind, here are some tips to help you be more present during Up Here and beyond:

Turn off push notifications for all social media accounts.

I did this a couple of months ago and I have realized that I don’t spend as much time scrolling through Facebook and Instagram. By not getting the prompt of a notification, I find myself not looking through the apps as much. In turn, I feel as though I am no longer as likely to be fixated with finding something to post. 

Take photos only before or after the shows.

Of course you want to have a takeaway from the weekend, but limit your photo taking to times when having your phone out won’t be taking away from the magic right in front of you. By planning this way, you’re sure to be filtering yourself to get a better photo, rather than posting a bunch of times throughout the shows. 

Put your phone on airplane mode when you’re in a venue or grabbing some food. 

This will mean you’re ready to see every effect, sway with the music, and soak in the vibes from what is sure to be an incredible crowd, for the fifth year in a row. Suggest that the folks you’re with do the same thing! The performers will appreciate your attention and your friends will appreciate seeing your beautiful face. I find that if I am at a table with everyone else checking their phones, that I am more likely to do the same thing. 

Anyone cool enough to connect with will be at the festival with you anyway, right? 

Photo by Vanessa Tignanelli