By Jessica Oliphant

I saw sixteen concerts in three days. I was practically trampled, used a porta-potty more times than I intended, and left every night caked in dirt and sweat. I had the time of my life. Lollapalooza was beautiful.

As Walk the Moon and Twenty One Pilots became my favorite acts, I realized the importance of the crowd. At both of these shows, the audience was so hyped. We jumped, swayed, and sang as a single unit. In crowds like those at Lolla, there’s a certain mentality that allows you to drop your walls, your insecurities, and your individuality. At Lolla, I could shamelessly be whomever I wanted. There were no boundaries or expectations. Then, when you let go of yourself while pushed against thousands of sweaty people, a community is forged, and you feel like you’re part of something.

Lollapalooza was also an exercise in flexibility. As plans changed, (like emergency evacuating the park. Twice.) I was forced to accept fluidity. Crowds are fluid, too, and when you’re 5’2’’ and can hardly see over anyone’s head, this can be really frustrating. Soon, I learned I had to let go and allow the crowd’s fluid motion to wash away stress and just enjoy myself.

All in all, Lollapalooza was the single greatest weekend of my life. I saw amazing shows from Charli XCX, Twenty One Pilots, The Weeknd, Walk the Moon, and Nicky Romero. I highly recommend seeing all of them given the chance. I also had the opportunity to get to the festival early and check out some groups I’m unfamiliar with. The Wombats, Ryn Weaver, and The Night Terrors of 1927 performed impressively. I suggest giving them a listen. Finally, if the opportunity presents itself, let go of yourself at Lolla and check out some incredible music.