Festival Etiquette Tips: How to Be Considerate While Having Fun

Poised & Proper
Apr 28
4 min read

Festivals and fairs are bursting with energy — the music, the food, the laughter, the rides, the long lines, and yes… the occasional chaos. These events are designed to bring communities together, offering shared experiences and joyful memories. But with big crowds come big opportunities for little frustrations — unless we all do our part.

Whether you’re headed to a neighborhood block party, a state fair, or a cultural festival, it’s possible to soak up the fun without stepping on anyone’s toes — literally or figuratively. Here’s how to enjoy the festivities while still being thoughtful, polite, and socially aware.

1. Be Aware of Your Space in Crowds

We’re all packed in tight, so a little spatial awareness goes a long way. That backpack you’re wearing? It’s bumping into the person behind you every time you turn. That stroller? It just clipped someone’s heel.

Tips:

Keep bags and strollers close to your body.
Step aside if you need to stop or look at something.
Don’t block walkways or entrances to booths or food stands.

This might sound obvious, but in the excitement, it’s easy to forget. Staying aware of your presence makes the experience smoother for everyone.

2. Mind Your Line Etiquette

Everyone is eager to get to the kettle corn, the funnel cake, or that Instagram-worthy lemonade stand. Cutting in line (even subtly) or saving spots for a large group isn’t just rude — it causes unnecessary tension.

Do:

Wait your turn patiently.
Keep your group together while queuing.
If you accidentally cut or didn’t realize where the line ends, step aside with a quick, “Oh! Sorry, didn’t realize — please, go ahead.”

Being courteous in line earns you more goodwill than any fast pass ever could.

3. Keep Noise Levels Respectful

Festivals are loud by nature — we get it. But that doesn’t mean it’s a free-for-all. Screaming over music, blasting your own playlist from a speaker, or engaging in rowdy behavior just adds to the sensory overload.

Instead:

Match your energy to your surroundings.
Avoid loud phone calls or FaceTimes.
Cheer, laugh, and sing along — just not at the expense of others’ enjoyment.

And please — if there’s a quiet or family zone, respect it. Not everyone is looking for the full-volume experience.

4. Clean Up After Yourself

Food wrappers, napkins, melted ice cream cones… festivals produce a lot of waste. It’s not just good manners to clean up after yourself — it’s also respectful to the hosts, vendors, and maintenance crew.

Festival-friendly habits:

Always locate the nearest trash and recycling bins.
If you spill something, let staff know or help clean it.
Don’t leave your empty cup on a vendor’s counter unless you’ve been told it’s okay.

We all love the atmosphere — let’s help keep it beautiful for everyone.

5. Respect Performers, Vendors, and Volunteers

Events like these don’t happen magically — they require a lot of work. Be kind to the people who are making it all possible.

A few kind practices:

Wait your turn at booths and be patient with slow service.
Say “thank you” to performers, staff, and volunteers.
Don’t heckle or complain loudly — take issues to the appropriate help desk if needed.

If something goes wrong (sold-out food, a long wait, a performance delay), take a deep breath. The people running the show are usually doing their best.

6. Watch the PDA (Yes, Really)

Festivals are fun and romantic, especially under the glow of string lights or fireworks. But let’s keep it respectful — what’s sweet to you might be uncomfortable for a family next to you.

Rule of thumb: If your PDA would feel awkward in a restaurant or waiting room, scale it back. A hug, a kiss on the cheek, or holding hands? Sweet. A full-on make-out session while people are trying to enjoy their turkey legs? Maybe not.

7. Be Mindful of Photos and Videos

You’re totally allowed to capture memories — but others didn’t sign up to be in your content.

Polite photo tips:

Avoid taking close-up photos of strangers (especially kids).
Ask permission before filming performers or artists if there’s no sign that it’s allowed.
Don’t stop in the middle of a busy path for selfies — step off to the side.

A quick, “Mind if I take a photo of this?” goes a long way and is always appreciated.

8. Stay Aware of Scent Sensitivities

Festivals are full of smells — barbecue, churros, sunscreen, and yes, sometimes perfume overload. If you love your signature scent, that’s great! But apply lightly. In crowded outdoor spaces, strong fragrances can overwhelm others or trigger allergies.

This also applies to smoking or vaping — follow event rules and be mindful of designated areas.

9. Be Inclusive and Friendly

One of the best parts of festivals is meeting new people. Smile. Hold the door open. Let someone go ahead of you. Small gestures make a big impact — especially in high-energy environments.

Even a quick “Hi!” or “This line moves fast, don’t worry!” can create a sense of community that makes the event even more enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

Festivals and fairs are a celebration of life, culture, and connection — and when we move through them with awareness and kindness, they’re that much more enjoyable. It doesn’t take much to be a considerate festivalgoer, but it does make a big difference.

So go ahead — enjoy the rides, eat the funnel cake, dance to the music, take the photos. Just be mindful of the people around you who are trying to do the same.

Looking for more real-world etiquette tips you’ll actually use? Subscribe to our weekly blog at Poised & Proper and make every outing a little more polished and a lot more pleasant. 🎡🎶✨