Smaller doesn't mean less energetic
Today's Virgin Mobile FreeFest might be smaller than previous years, but it's every bit as energetic.
Sure, Merriweather Post Pavilion is half the size of Pimlico Race Course, And the festival has been cut from a weekend-long spectacle to a one-day affair. Even the traditionally diverse lineup was focused to include mostly rock bands and DJs. But this year's festival was also free, and free goes a long way ...
There aren't any official attendance figures out yet, but I'd say tens of thousands of concert-goers are here. They've moshed to Jet, bounced to Mates of State, and pumped their fists in the air to The Hold Steady.
And in typical Virgin Fest fashion, there is a ton of other activities for folks who want to take a break from band-watching. You can your picture taken in the free photo booth. You can sing karaoke, or have your fortune texted to you from a psychic.
“There is never a dull moment – and if there is, it’s only because you want it to be,” said Ryan Griffin, an 18-year-old who lives in Columbia.
So far, the only major complaint has been the long lines of fans waiting to get into the pavilion. The seats were first-come, first-served, and the space is only so big. As a result, lines are snaking across the lawn, and some of the people are starting to get impatient. But you can only get so impatient with a free show.
"I don't like standing in it, but at least you've got the chance to get a seat," said Yasmin Karimian, a 19-year-old who lives in Monkton.
I've been The Baltimore Sun's nightlife and local entertainment reporter for a couple years, and it's surprising how much the scene has grown in that time. Most of Baltimore's bars and clubs are unpretentious places with fairly cheap drinks and plenty of character. I like dancing and think this city needs more clubs, but nothing beats having a cold, locally brewed beer with friends in a comfortably full corner bar.
