Who do you wanna see in concert?? 🎶 🎤🎸

After my amazing first concert with Cody Johnson and Ashley McBryde, I've been thinking a lot about how to pick the right show for you. Sometimes it's an artist you've loved for years, a bucket list performer, or maybe even someone completely new recommended by a friend. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone! I've found that checking out local events near places like Charlottesville or regularly browsing venue schedules for places like John Paul Jones Arena can lead to some incredible discoveries. Pay attention to opening acts, too – Ashley McBryde, for instance, was fantastic and now I'm hooked! What kind of vibe are you looking for? Big stadium rock, intimate acoustic sets, or something in between? Websites like Songkick or Bandsintown are great for tracking artists you want to see and getting alerts when they announce tours near you. It's all about finding that perfect match for your musical taste! Once you've decided on an artist, planning is key for an unforgettable experience. My biggest lesson from my first time? Arrive early! Seriously, it makes all the difference. We got to John Paul Jones Arena way ahead of time, which meant no stress finding parking and beating the rush for entry. It was so calm before the storm, just like the OCR image shows! This gave us time to grab a relaxed dinner at a spot like Matchbox (their food was amazing, just like the pizza and fish and chips in the photo!) and even do a little browsing. Imagine not having to rush or stand in long lines for drinks or merch – pure bliss! Beyond just timing your arrival, think about what to bring. A small, clear bag is usually best for quick security checks, but always check the venue's specific policy beforehand! Also, comfortable shoes are a must – you'll likely be on your feet dancing or walking quite a bit. Hydration is super important, especially if you're going to be singing along for hours. And don't forget to charge your phone for those memorable photos and videos (but remember to live in the moment too!). If you're traveling for a concert, like we did to Charlottesville, turn it into a mini-adventure! Exploring the area around the venue, maybe checking out the beautiful University of Virginia campus, or even just finding a cool local coffee shop can really enhance the whole experience. We even stopped by an L.L.Bean store, which was a fun little detour. When you're at the John Paul Jones Arena, or any large venue for that matter, take a moment to figure out where everything is – restrooms, concessions, exits. Knowing your way around will save you stress later. And if you're not sure about the best seats, sometimes the 'lower half of the upper deck' can offer a fantastic view without breaking the bank, just like we found with Cody Johnson's performance. It gave us a great perspective of the entire stage and the energetic crowd below. It turns a simple concert outing into a full day of entertainment. What are your go-to pre-concert rituals? Attending a concert is more than just seeing your favorite artist; it's about the atmosphere, the shared energy, and creating lasting memories. Whether it's your first time or your hundredth, these little tips can help make any entertainment event truly special. So, who are you going to see next?