Indie fans rejoice! On April 18, 2023, the All Things Go Music Festival announced their star-studded lineup. The festival has been around for a few years, but this is their biggest yet, adding an extra day of fun to the agenda. Upcoming headliners include Maggie Rogers on Saturday, and Lana del Rey and Boygenius on Sunday. For the lucky ticket goers, here’s a guide to the festival from someone who’s gone the last two years!
The Venue
All Things Go will be held at the Merriweather Post Pavilion on Saturday September 30th and Sunday October 1st. The pavilion is about 40 minutes outside of Washington DC and 30 minutes outside of Baltimore. For us DC fans, there is no metro access to the pavilion. However, in previous years, All Things Go has provided shuttles for DC fans to get to and from the city. Shuttles for 2023 have yet to be announced and there is no word on if they’re making a return.
At the pavilion, there are two stages for acts to perform: The Pavilion and the Chrysalis stage. The Pavilion is the main stage where most higher billed acts perform. It contains a small General Admissions pit, VIP reserved seated, Super VIP seats, General Admission seats, and a General Admission lawn. Each ticket type determines which section you’re able to sit in. Each section is divided off and labeled so you’ll know where to go. For the Chrysalis stage, there is just VIP and a small VIP section for talent and Super VIP’s.
Here’s a map of the venue:
The Food
Unlike other major festivals, All Things Go has standard venue food onsite. However, the options are extensive and they taste delicious. Some highlights are nachos with guacamole and salsa, popcorn, and soft serve ice cream. In addition, the beer selection is unlike any other DMV venue. Here’s a full lineup of options.
Food sells quickly! Last year, nearly all food stands were out of food before headliner Lorde took the stage. Stocking up on food at the start of the day is critical. Main items like chicken tenders and fries are available, but less common items might sell out sooner than expected.
The Lineup
This years lineup has their biggest festival yet, with up and coming indie acts like Ethel Cain, all the way to Alt Icons like Lana Del Rey. While the headliners are impressive, don’t skip the lower billed acts. Two years ago, I saw Tkay Maidza when she was billed at the bottom of the lineup, and she’s now one of my favorite artists of all time. Get there early, and immerse yourself with the best of the best within the indie scene.
In addition, set times are paired close together. Try to leave a set early, if possible, to catch another towards the front. While missing a closing song can be unfortunate, making this small sacrifice can get you infinitely closer for acts you prioritize more.
Activities
All Things Go is a relatively small festival. Despite this, they manage to pack many activities for guests outside of just music. Explore the various pieces of art around the venue. In addition, partners like Bud Light have interactive exhibits throughout the festival. Also, vinyl lovers need to checkout the Songbyrd station. During the day, DC local record store Songbyrd hosts a vinyl shopping experience, with plenty of stock to choose from as well as a DJ and drinks. This space is perfect in the morning as a warm up to the days festivities.
Some Last Minute Tips and Tricks
- All Things Go is in the fall, which is DC rainy season. Check the weather and dress appropriately.
- GA Lawn tickets have a limited view of the main stage. Try to get there early for a set you don’t want to miss.
- For Those in the GA Lawn, the Skybox offers premium views without needing a GA pavilion or VIP ticket.
- Ticket upgrades are sometimes available day of. If you want to upgrade your ticket, go the the ticketing center as soon as possible.
- Pavilion seating is first come first serve. Get a seat immediately and have someone guarding it at all times so someone doesn’t steal your spot.
Here at Mic Drop Music, we want to know if you’ll be attending this year’s festival. Drop a comment below!
