MANILA, Philippines - Singapore’s very own indie music festival Camp Symmetry happens at 12 noon tomorrow at the scenic Gardens by the Bay. From California lo-fi rockers Best Coast and fellow American indie acts Wild Nothing and Ra Ra Riot to indie vets like Explosions in the Sky, The Cribs, and Mew, and more, this new festival brings together the best of indie pop and post rock for an all-day sampling that ought to rival its sibling festivals. But before you head out there in the wild sun, make sure you’re armed and ready with pointers that work well for most festivals.
If on a budget, make sure you check out scalpers on the festival’s Facebook event.
First things first, as always: festival tickets. The time has come to cram for your entry to hipster heaven in case you haven’t. You can still buy tickets at the door for S$160 but if you’re scrimping, scalpers are popping out on the festival’s event page selling their S$145 priced tickets for S$15 to S$25 off. Book them for yourself or for friends who want to join in last minute.
Going to Gardens? You can save some more by taking the MRT, not a cab.
Commuting to Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay via MRT train is quick and easy. Just purchase a ticket for Bayfront (CE1), look for Exit B when you get down, and follow the underground link-way out. As you exit, cross the Dragonfly bridge and you’re there.
Skip the sando if you seek to save your shoulders. Or, SSSSS.
Tank tops, or sando, can be a real regret a day after the festival. Your shoulders swell up and no amount of aloe vera seems to help your sunburn. You can always apply sunscreen lotion before the festival, true, but there’s always that patch of skin that gets left out. So why risk it? Why not wear something with sleeves instead? Something preemptively comfortable.
Pack a mobile charger for your phone.
Professional SLRs are not allowed in the camp’s premises, unfortunately, so taking photos with your camera phone is now the second best thing. So bring one — plus a portable charger — to support your band stalking schemes.
Bring cash for snacks, water, and band merch.
You’ve been working hard and the time has come to treat yourself — but with what? Rare band merchandise. Do it now before you regretfully buy the same thing a week later online for more than twice its festival price. Damn.