Going to a concert is more than just watching your favorite artists perform—it’s about sharing an experience with thousands of other fans. Whether you’re jamming out in the pit or enjoying the music from your seat, concert etiquette is crucial for making sure everyone has a great time. Unfortunately, not everyone follows the unwritten rules, which can lead to frustration and even spoil the event for others. So, what does it mean to be a respectful fan, and how can you make sure you’re contributing to a positive concert atmosphere? Let’s break down the dos and don’ts of concert behavior.
Respecting Personal Space
Concerts can be crowded, especially if you’re at a standing-room-only event. When you’re packed in with hundreds or even thousands of other fans, personal space becomes a precious commodity. The excitement of the show can sometimes lead people to forget that they’re not the only ones trying to enjoy the night.
Good Etiquette: Mind the Space
Always be aware of the space around you. If you’re in the standing area, try to keep a reasonable distance from the people around you. No one wants to spend the whole concert being jostled or elbowed. If you accidentally bump into someone, a quick apology goes a long way. It’s also important to avoid pushing through the crowd unnecessarily. If you need to move, do so gently and with consideration for those around you.
Bad Etiquette: Shoving and Pushing
One of the most frustrating behaviors at concerts is when someone decides to push their way to the front, regardless of who they have to bulldoze through to get there. This isn’t just rude—it can be dangerous. Shoving can lead to falls, injuries, and just a generally bad experience for everyone. Remember, everyone wants to have a good time, and your rush to the front shouldn’t ruin it for others.
Put the Phone Down
We get it—you want to capture the moment. In today’s world, it’s almost instinctual to pull out your phone and record your favorite song or snap a few photos. However, overusing your phone at a concert can be a major annoyance to those around you.
Good Etiquette: Snap and Stow
Take a few pictures or a short video, then put your phone away. Enjoy the moment. The concert is happening right in front of you—there’s no need to watch it through a screen. Plus, constantly holding up your phone can block the view for the people behind you, which isn’t fair to them. Be mindful of the balance between capturing memories and living in the moment.
Bad Etiquette: The Serial Recorder
We’ve all seen that one person who spends the entire concert with their phone in the air, recording every single song. Not only does this create a barrier between you and the live experience, but it also disrupts the experience for others. Don’t be that person. The magic of live music is best experienced with your own eyes, not through a lens.
Sing Along, But Don’t Scream
Singing along to your favorite songs is one of the joys of live music. However, there’s a fine line between joining in and overpowering the artist you came to see.
Good Etiquette: Sing, Don’t Scream
Feel free to sing along, but keep it to a level that’s enjoyable for everyone. The artist should be the one leading the show, not you. If you’re shouting at the top of your lungs, chances are you’re drowning out the music for the people around you. Find a happy medium where you can express your excitement without becoming the unintended headliner.
Bad Etiquette: The Overzealous Screamer
Screaming the lyrics—or worse, shouting them out of tune—can be incredibly distracting. It’s great to be enthusiastic, but remember that everyone is there to hear the band, not you. Excessive shouting, especially in quieter parts of the performance, can take others out of the experience and lead to some annoyed looks.
Concert etiquette is about more than just following a set of rules—it’s about creating an environment where everyone can enjoy the music together. Being mindful of personal space, keeping phone use to a minimum, singing along without overpowering, respecting the artist, and exiting gracefully are all simple ways to contribute to a positive concert experience. Whether you’re attending your first show or you’re a seasoned concertgoer, these guidelines will help you be a respectful fan and ensure that the concert is memorable for all the right reasons.
