In honor of LouFest’s 4th birthday, we’re posting a 4-part series of preview posts, highlighting what we think are the greatest aspects of LouFest: The Bands (duh), The Food, The Location (3-1-4Ever), and The Memories.

Today, the IWTAS authors share their love for all things Lou, as we provide tips and suggestions with our out-of-town pals coming in for the big show. We also throw out some advice on how to thrive once inside the festival grounds:

 

St. Louis is a great town that can be easily overlooked. The obvious hot shit suggestion is always City Museum for out-of-towners – and it’s a good one! However, I usually like to take my guests to local watering holes – and that means hitting my favorite breweries. Perennial is a must for me, along with Four Hands, Civil Life, and Schlafly Tap Room. Oh, and there’s usually some LouFest after shows (or local shows that start late), so you if you have the energy, you ought to hit those to experience some of our club venues… which are all pretty great!

 

Having photographed the festival each year since its inception, I usually don’t have the energy to participate in any post-festival activities aside from pizza-procuring and heavy sleeping. In order to have a great time and to maintain optimal health and energy levels at LouFest, I suggest the following:

— Bring Your Own Shade: Each year, LouFest organizers have expanded opportunities for shelter from the elements. That said, you should still invest in a big ass normal-sized umbrella and use it as a sun shade, rain blocker, and way-finder for your friends who will inevitably be calling and trying to find you, while saying things like, “I’m 12 steps east of the west-end Port-a-Potties…” and everyone will be annoyed.

— Get There Early: Reward yourself with prime parking and sitting spots by being punctual. You could always nap in the sun while waiting for the other 3/4ths of the crowd to arrive, but really, you should be checking out the music goodness (Jukebox the Ghost, Kentucky Knife Fight, and Youngblood Hawke to name a few) that begin first thing in the afternoon.

 

Don’t you dare leave this town without visiting City Museum, even if you only stand outside and stare at in awe.

Also: Mokabe’s brunch is a Sunday tradition that deserves it.

 

 

Don’t pose for any photographer, lest you end up on an RFT list.
BYON: Bring Your Own Nalgene. Then fill it with wine.
Be patient with others.

 

Thanks, as always, for reading. Our fourth and final LouFest preview piece will go up tomorrow, Sept. 4th. Feel free to leave our followers your own tips for making the most of the festival in the comments section below.