How to Stay Cool+Tite at FYF (2017 Edition)

Words by Crystal Lopez and Mat Jackson // Photos by Sergio Estrada and Crystal Lopez (unless otherwise noted)

It’s been a minute since our last FYF guide, so we thought now was a good time to revisit our mad educated advice on “How to Stay Cool+Tite at FYF!”

Since moving to Exposition Park, it seems that each year FYF takes steps towards better expressing itself and representing what the OG Fuck Yeah Fest was supposed to be. The diverse lineup feels like it’s meant to both satisfy and challenge your taste, with acts ranging from Solange to Sleep, Janathan Richman and Mac Demarco to Run The Jewels and Missy Elliot. We must also acknowledge that, despite sharing the headlining spot (womp), it’s super rare to see not one, but two women headlining a major music festival (whoop)!

FYF is now an exxxtra long three days, but that doesn’t mean you should waste your time with amateur mistakes. Take it from us, here’s our (updated) guide for staying Cool+Tite at FYF 2017:

GET THERE

First thing’s first, you gotta get there. The fest will again be Exposition Park. This is located just South of USC and in not the greatest of hoods. So don’t wander too far after dark. Luckily, the Metro Expo Line takes you straight there – just exit at Expo/Vermont Station! Otherwise, we recommend Uber/Lyft if you plan on getting crunk.

+++ Cool-Tite Tip: Start the festivities early. Pre-game with your crew before you embark on your epic adventure. But don’t get too carried away!

+++ Cool-Tite Ultra-Pro Tip: Don’t be a chump; pretend like you’ve ridden the Metro before and pre-load a TAP card before going to the festival! The Expo line is so convenient and should be your top pick for getting outta the area each night – even if just to get a few stops up to call on a Lyft. TAP card is just a buck, and you’ll need $1.75 each way ($3.50 round trip). Expect a crazy long line if you fail this part.

KEEP IT COOL

It’s a typical SoCal summer, so it’s gonna be hot – especially now that FYF has moved to July! Wear light clothes, shorts, and shades to keep it Cool & Tite. Don’t forget the sunscreen, a fly hat, and drink lots of WATER!

+++ Cool-Tite Tip: FYF will allow you to carry in a PLASTIC water bottle you can refill throughout the fest. Reduce trash, and save some cash! (Water will be sold on-site for $2 bones).

DON’T GET LOST IN THE CROWD

If you have a friend that somehow manages to get themselves lost, here’s our tips for keeping your crew intact:

Download the FYF app. Know where you are and move strategically – the app has maps, set times, alerts, and other cool things that can help steer you where you need to be.
Pick a meet-up spot. Either identify one specific location once inside and dedicate that as a meet up spot, OR go a bit more general and identify an area at each stage to congregate towards (e.g. left of sound tent or like 50ft back from the right stage speakers).
Fly a flag. Not necessarily an actual flag, but get crafty and identify an object that someone can hold high overhead so others can spot from afar. Maybe a parasol or a bandanna?

+++ Cool-Tite Tip: Don’t lose your shit either! There’s some affordable lockers on-site available to rent ahead of time so you don’t have to be weighed down by unneeded items all day.

: Source: LA Weekly

GETTING HOME

Know how you are getting home and who is going with you. Don’t be dumb and drive if you’ve been drinking or druggin’. So NOT cool-tite. Take a cab, Uber/Lyft, or Metro. Or call your mom to pick you up. No shame if everyone gets home safe.

+++ Final Tip: PLAN YOUR SCHEDULE

Don’t miss the good stuff! Pick your essential ‘must sees’ for each day ahead of time, make sure there’s no conflicts and look to resolve any that you see (e.g. split sets and see both!).