The semester is coming to a close which means it is time for another USF week. 

As excitement buzzes around campus for the upcoming festivities, there is one I personally cannot wait for – Bullstock.

Not many people can say their university has their own music festival. Especially a free one, right on campus.

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Sometimes with so much going on, it can be stressful attending a large event. But as somebody who has attended many concerts, it has become a breeze for me to prepare. 

As we celebrate the 28th Bullstock at USF, here is a list of my tips and reminders to ensure you have the best time, without stress. 

Familiarize yourself with the artists

This is something I always try to do before attending a show, especially for opening acts. I have discovered many of my favorite bands this way. 

Listen to a few of their albums and check them out on social media. You don’t have to become a superfan, but it is fun to see their image and what they are all about. 

The smaller USF opening bands typically do not have anything on streaming platforms. If I haven’t seen them before, I like to find videos of them playing that the band or others have posted. 

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Of course, it can be fun to go to a concert without expectations, but there’s something special about singing along with both the artists and the audience. 

There’s something for everybody at Bullstock this year. With acts such as Gloomchild, a local alternative metal band, Blusher, an electronic pop group, Hip-hop artist Destin Laurel and the three of USF’s Battle of the Bands winners, Mossheads, Rogues Gallery and Social Dilemma. 

This year’s headliner is Grouplove. I know everybody loves “Tongue Tied,” but their album “Never Trust a Happy Song” is worth a listen in its entirety.  

Make a list of essentials to bring

I always create a checklist on my phone before I go to concerts. It keeps my head organized and minimizes that nagging feeling that I’m forgetting something. 

My essentials include my camera, a portable charger, my wallet and cash. The first band comes on at 5:15 p.m., so I’m planning on bringing sunglasses and sunscreen since the sunset won’t be for another couple of hours. 

I also like bringing a sharpie for signatures just in case I run into an artist – you never know. 

Most importantly, it is recommended for students to bring their USF ID.

Check policies ahead of time

However, before packing your essentials, make sure to leave any prohibited items at home.

It is always important to make sure you are checking venue and event policies beforehand to avoid any issues at entry.

Quite a few times, I have fallen victim to the graveyard of confiscated items — or in other words, the venue’s trash can — because I failed to check the policies. Bullstock has a few key restrictions to keep in mind. 

They do not allow attendees to bring bags larger than 12-by-12-by-12 inches. They also do not allow food or beverages into the event. 

But not to worry, buckle that fanny pack or sling that crossbody on and come ready for the food trucks they’ll have. 

Don’t be afraid to dance

This should be a no-brainer, but I have to mention it because I’ve been to way too many shows where the crowd is as stiff as a board. You’d think nobody wants to be there. 

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Artists should have good crowd interaction. They should not have to beg you to dance and move around.

Nobody is looking at you, so don’t be afraid to get a little crazy. Maybe even headbang, or start a mosh pit. 

The most important thing to remember is that live music is all about connection and living in the moment. Don’t worry about getting the perfect photo or video, and make new friends with those around you. 

So remember proper concert etiquette, show up for opening bands and of course, have fun.