Contrary to some people’s beliefs, I believe that there really isn’t too much to prepare for in advance of your first EDC Las Vegas. If you’ve been to any major rave or multi-day festival, you’re essentially ready to take on EDC. Although the festival may seem very daunting to take on as a first-timer, I hope that this article will relieve your stress and anxiety. This was my experience heading out to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway to experience EDC Las Vegas 2022.
Seeing the set times were a very intimating moment since there were 12 different stages across 11 hours with several conflicting sets. As you’re creating your own schedule, it seems like you’ll be seeing 6-8 sets across multiple stages every day. However, in reality, you’re probably going to average around 4 sets each day. The most important thing I learned is to be flexible and open to unexpected changes. There were a handful of times where a set turned out to be so good that I ended up staying for the entirety, rather than leaving halfway to catch another artist like I originally planned to. Personally, I had no regrets and enjoyed the spontaneous changes. It’s essential to come to the festival with an open mind and a positive attitude.
On that note, I believe you’ll get out of EDC what you put in as well as the mindset you bring. If you’re going in with a closed mind and the inability to open up to new experiences, you won’t be able to connect with the unique culture and experience what the festival has to offer.
My biggest regret from the weekend was not spending enough time at the speedway. Since this was most of my group and I’s first EDC, we didn’t know to explore the festival grounds. Pasquale has truly created a utopia for ravers in the middle of Vegas. It felt like our own little wonderland with festival rides, food stands, and even a little “downtown area” with a speed dating show, karaoke bar, marriage chapel, silent disco, and more. EDC Las Vegas 2022 gave us an experience that’s more than just the music and lineup. If you’re tired or need a break from the music, there are plenty of things to do around the venue and art installations to check out and explore.
Some small pro-tips that’ll come in handy:
-Always set a clear and concise meeting spot with your group (don’t just say “let’s meet at the water station at Circuit Grounds” but rather “let’s meet at the far right side of the water station, under the huge water station sign and across the stands next to Circuit Grounds”)
-Find a spot to enjoy the fireworks in their entirety for one of the nights (most people opt for the stands/bleachers for a full view)
-Have water on you at all times in case you’re separated from the group
-Do whatever you have to do to prepare your body for long extended treks (note: I averaged around 40k steps on average each day and I only arrived after 8-9 PM)
-A personal tip: do a quick check for valuables periodically. There are many pickpocketers and it’s also easy to lose personal belongings at such a large-scale event
Images via Insomniac
EDC Las Vegas 2022 was like running a marathon, it’s about your mental and physical endurance as you pace yourself to cross the finish line. As the festival is going on, there are plenty of dayclub parties and nightclub events around Las Vegas. It’s tempting to attend all of them and explore local attractions as well. So it’s vital that you know your physical limits and gets the rest you need. However, Vegas will always be here and therefore there’s no need to overextend yourself on the trip.
Another factor that may discourage a lot of people from attending EDC is the cost. It seems like a huge financial burden to attend when you’re adding up tickets, hotel, and flight costs. However, if you save up and plan early, attending the festival is certainly feasible. I truly believe that the experience is very rewarding, especially when you’re going with close friends. I will say that the majority of my group and I have already bought EDC 2023 tickets. That’s how much we loved our first EDC and enjoyed our time there. If you have any reservations about attending, I highly recommend you take the leap of faith at least once in your life and go.
