Don’t be late – Lots of folks roll in around the 5 o’clock hour. If you join them, you will miss out on dozens of amazing artists. White Denim, Tanlines, Beck, YACHT, Zola Jesus, Geographer, Mark Farina, Franz Ferdinand, and many more all play before 5 p.m. Additionally, you will miss the long line that accrues at the Heineken dome.

Don’t eat before you arrive – Go hungry, very hungry - Everything you could possibly want will be there.

Do pace yourself – You’re going to have to make some tough decisions – Die Antwoord or Of Monsters and Men? The Kills or Thee Oh Sees? Jack White or Santigold?? ARGH! The good news - the final bands at Land’s End stage play for nearly two hours, so it’s entirely possible to catch both headliners on opposite ends of the park. 

Do wear comfortable shoes – You will rack up many miles walking and running between stages to catch acts. Sandals are okay, but keep in mind that certain areas become a slick, sopping wet mess late in the day (like the Heineken dome). 

Do bring layers – The forecast calls for mid-70s Friday and Saturday and the temp won’t be far off from that on Sunday. It will feel downright hot in the crowd if and when the summer sun is shining. But, don’t be fooled. The 4 – 8 p.m. hours are normally the most windy and chilly time of day in the City. Bring leggings, scarves, and something long-sleeved.

Do bring a light blanket – You will definitely want to sit down at some point during the long day, so be the hero of your group. A sarong is too thin, a light blanket, ideal. The grass and straw won’t stay dry for long. Also used for staking a spot.

Do mix it up. Outside Lands is a veritable playground for adults. Check out the live art happening. Stop by The Barbary for some offbeat, comedic entertainment (Doogie Howser will be there!). Relax with a sauv blanc in the Wine Lands tent, sample microbrews at Beer Lands, and indulge in a sweet within the Chocolands forest.

Do ride a bike if you can. There will be free valet service, and you can also lock it to any rack provided (of which there will be plenty). After nine hours of running around Golden Gate Park, the last thing you want to do is walk three miles out of the park. Another option is a pedicab. Don’t even kid yourself, you will not find a cab and MUNI will be packed, but if you opt for MUNI…

Do walk a few extra blocks to find an alternate MUNI route. The N is supremely popular, as is the 5 Fulton. But the 31 Balboa is only a few extra blocks north. Or, there’s always Uber. Or, well, really, you should try and ride a bike. And if you do end up riding or walking back through the park…

Don't be a loner. Make new friends on the long trek home. Guaranteed, you may stumble upon a lone trumpet player by a park statue, a magic mystery bus with an impromptu dance party occurring across from the Conservatory of Flowers, or a posse taking a break in front of the de Young. The City is magical at night. Soak it in!