Rules only exist for breaking, right? All these boring barriers, created by someone else, designed to stop you having fun and being your true self! Limitations surely have no place at a festival- the freest, funnest places on the planet. Or do they?
Festivals are paradisal pockets of time, moments in life where you can come together with thousands of diverse, yet like-minded people, bonding over your mutual love of music. Electric atmospheres surround the sites where for four days a mini-universe is created and the outside world momentarily ceases to exist. But did you know that the rules of a festival play a crucial role in creating that spirited energy and in creating the sense of community that we love. By providing structure, ensuring safety, and promoting inclusivity, these guidelines enhance the overall festival experience and foster a vibrant and harmonious atmosphere.
Firstly rules ensure the safety of everyone in attendance, which is paramount for revellers to feel comfortable in experiencing their environment. Emergency exits, crowd control and entry searches may seem pretty dull, but without them, Utopia could very quickly descend into a labyrinth of carnage. Secondly, by actively discouraging any form of discrimination or prejudice, festivals promote an atmosphere of acceptance and unity. Music festivals have the power to bring people from all walks of life together, transcending social, cultural, and demographic barriers. Thirdly, as our awareness of environmental issues grows, so does the importance of incorporating sustainable practices into every aspect of our lives, including music festivals. Festivals around the world have been proactive in establishing rules and guidelines to promote environmental consciousness.
El Dorado festival knows the power of rules in creating an unforgettable festival experience. We take a look at their six Golden Rules and what they mean to this bright and inclusive festival.
“At our festival, we uphold a cherished collection of golden rules that embody our organisation’s beliefs and core values. Our utmost aim is to ensure that each and every individual attending El Dorado Festival feels safe and welcome at all times.” – Jack Burbage, Co-Founder
Comradery
No one is a stranger. You have all found El Dorado, why not share it? Suspend yourself from awkwardness, self-consciousness and fear. As smoke sweeps across your feet on the dance floor, and the sun peeks through the gaps in the leafy canopy above you, share the moment with your neighbour. Respect your new family – and watch out for each other. Sometimes even the most experienced explorers can get a little carried away.
Inclusivity
All identities are to be embraced and loved. The Kingdom welcomes every gender, sexuality, religion and ethnicity. We’ve no time or place for judgement and hate. All who attend help create the dream. Your identity is neighbour, pleasure-seeker, shapeshifter.
Green & Clean
El Dorado is built on beauty. Nature’s own balance is our guide, and we respect it as if it were our master. Litter must be recycled, tents taken home and campsites kept clean. Single-use plastic is forbidden. Leave nothing but your soul in the Kingdom, for it has given you everything.
On Your Feet
Dance, dance, dance! You do plenty of thinking already – now it’s time to forget your head and tune back into your body. The mysterious music-makers who appear on the stages across El Dorado’s leafy lands will deliver only the best sounds to make you move and make you sing. They live to serve your feet and your voice box; give them these, and you will be given the world in return.
Forget Fashion
Forget everything you think you know about cool. The Kingdom doesn’t care. Chic, vintage, artsy, normcore, grunge, are all but a name. The Kingdom is not of any time or place, of any trend or season. Embrace your inner fashion. Express what you need to express. That is the perfect outfit.
Basically Don’t Be A Dick!
We’re here to party, to love, and to forget the noise. Soak up the sun, breathe in the fresh air, and release yourself. We’ll take it from there. You’re in good hands at El Dorado