Montreal

Osheaga 2015: A survivor's guide to the festival

More than 100 bands will play on six stages over three days at Parc Jean-Drapeau. Here are some tips on how to navigate the festival.
Festival organizers expect more than 130,000 people will descend on Parc Jean Drapeau this weekend for the Osheaga Music and Arts Festival. (Frank Opolko/CBC)

More than 100 bands will play on six stages over three days at Parc Jean-Drapeau. Osheaga takes place from Friday, July 31 to Sunday, Aug. 2.

Here are some tips on how to navigate the 10th edition of the festival. 

Take the Metro...

The Metro is the easiest way to get to Osheaga. Jean-Drapeau metro station leaves you steps from the site. The STM is offering a special three-day pass for $16.25. It's for sale on July 30 and July 31. Osheaga recommends purchasing your return trip in advance to avoid long lines on the way out.

...Or a bike

You can bike or take the Metro, but you can't take your bike in the Metro. (Francois Lenoir/Reuters)

Biking (or walking) are other options. Directions on how to reach Parc Jean-Drapeau by bicycle and foot can be found here. Parc Jean-Drapeau offers bicycle parking near the festival site.

Osheaga has also set up a bike parking lot called "The Terminus," where you can park your bike for the day. 

If you absolutely need to drive, directions and parking information can be found on Parc Jean-Drapeau's website.

Just don't try to bring your bike in the Metro — bikes are prohibited during major events.

Bring snacks and stay hydrated

Bring a sandwich and some snacks. (Tracey Lindeman)

You're allowed to bring your own food. Note that coolers or lunch boxes aren't allowed.

Good snacks to bring include nuts, fruits and veggies, sandwiches and granola bars.

There are also food and alcohol vendors are on site, but they can be pricey. 

You're also allowed to bring a clear plastic bottle — and there are water fountains where you can refill it. If you don`t feel well, there`s a medical staff on site. 

You can charge your phone

There are also phone charging stations, so bring your charger if you plan on using your phone a lot.

Personal cameras are also allowed.

Consider buying an external battery pack or a battery case for your phone if you don't have time to hang out near a charging station.

Pack a poncho — and a sun hat

Be prepared, like the pope. Think ahead and bring a poncho. (Erik De Castro/Reuters)

If it looks like it`ll be hot, bring a hat and sunglasses. If there's a chance of rain, bring a poncho — umbrellas are never a good idea at festivals. Comfy shoes are also recommended as you'll be on your feet a lot.

And don't forget the sunscreen! Remember that you can still burn even under overcast skies.

Finding shade during festivals at Parc Jean-Drapeau can be a challenge, but it may be worth scoping out a spot under a tree to get out of the sun.

 A full list of what you`re allowed to bring and not allowed to bring is available here.

And don't forget a good pair of earplugs!