Whether it’s your first festival or your 50th, there are certain codes of conduct that keep the vibes alive and the rave community thriving. No matter what event you’re attending, the experience is only as good as the energy we all bring to it. It’s also sometimes easy to forget that many of the industry’s top professionals started out as music lovers with a dream to turn their passions into a career.
EDM Maniac tapped in with seasoned veterans who’ve danced through dust storms, waited out rain delays, and seen it all from sunrise sets to warehouse afters—and asked them to share their under-the-radar tip for how to keep the culture of PLUR (peace, love, unity, and respect) alive and well.
Here’s what they had to say:
Mikey Tableman, Director of Skydeck Experiences – Insomniac, DLS
“The beauty of these spaces is the community they create. Be kind, be present, and treat every person and moment like it matters, because it does and they do.”
Laura Lee Sabbe, OG Raver
“Keep your heart open. Festivals are full of magical souls just waiting to connect. When you express yourself fully, you give others permission to do the same. Be your weird, radiant, sparkly self and let the good vibes ripple out!”
Rosedriive, Globally Touring DJ
“Avoid making song requests. This distracts the DJ and prioritizes yourself over others. The DJ has a plan to take the crowd on a journey, and when people are constantly making requests, it disrupts the process.”
Alex Bosi, Event Promoter & Producer, PNW Region – Insomniac, Spctrm
“I love to see people who are aware of their surroundings and respect their fellow ravers. This can be found in little things, like making sure your phone isn’t blocking the person’s view behind you, or finding a group of like-minded ravers in the crowd to headbang with. We all experience music in different ways, just make sure it isn’t at the expense of someone else.”
Jason Dowiatt, Co-Founder – Rave Haven
“Raves were created as a safe space where people from all over can come together regardless of what you wear, the color of your skin, or what you do for work. Accept people for who they are, be thoughtful when passing through the crowd, and look out for one another so you can uphold the values of PLUR.”
Jake I., Stage Manager
“Please don’t try to get on stage, knowing you shouldn’t be there. As a stage manager, I have a list of people who are allowed. A wristband also does not guarantee access to the stage, especially if it’s at capacity or if the DJ wants the booth clear. I don’t care if Jesus himself came down and personally asked me to let you on stage. Remember, I’m here doing a job, and I want to do that job to the best of my ability.”
Erika Vela, Entertainment Marketing & PR Professional
“Being respectful should always remain top of mind. Always ask for consent before hugging or any kind of physical touch. It’s always important to respect others’ boundaries.”
Courtney Paige Nelson, Electronic Artist
“PLUR is more than a motto, it’s a responsibility. If you see someone who looks out of it, check in. If someone doesn’t have water, offer yours or help them find some. You’d be surprised how quickly dehydration can sneak up in the middle of a set. This culture is built on care, and you can be the reason someone gets home safe.”
Disheveled, Electronic Artist
“Make kandi cool again. Kandi is the quintessential experience of PLUR because it’s about meeting new people and giving gifts. If you’re shy, use Kandi as a way to break the ice. The next thing you know, you’re raving with each other like you’ve been lifelong friends the entire time.”
Featured image courtesy: Insomniac Events. Credit: Skyler Greene.
