Small music festivals trying to lay down roots and in an already crowded music scene can be tough. While it may be hard to break out from under the shadow of Coachella, Stagecoach and Warped tour, The Beach Goth Party has managed find their place in the sun.

Going on its fourth year, The Beach Goth Party, hosted by OC’s very own sun-and-surf soaked band The Growlers, has definitely made a name for itself. Since this festival is so far fetched and out there, it’s a good idea to learn some tips and tricks to survive The Beach Goth Party.

1. Make a list of the bands you want to see

With acts spanning from ’80s-style indie pop band, The Drums, to hip hop artist, Riff Raff, this years Beach Goth Party is oozing with diversity. Whether you’re a fan of indie, rap, punk or garage rock, there’s an act for you. Having stages inside and outside of The Observatory is great to house the variety of acts, but it’s crowded and difficult to get from stage to stage. Be sure you make a list of the bands you want to see prior to getting there, so you’ll be able to see all of your favorites!

2. Get there early
Beach Goth can be overcrowded, the parking is terrible and getting through the gates on time can be a miracle. To avoid panic, it should be known that there are a few options for parking. Last year, there was VIP parking across the street for $25. There was also parking at the OC Fair & Events Center for $7, which included  shuttles to the venue. Give yourself an extra hour of time for parking, walking to the venue, and any other last minute things.

3. Wear something crazy, or better yet, your Halloween costume!

Since Beach Goth is the weekend before Halloween, there’s always a wide array of interesting costumes, such as an old school joker, and Andy Warhol’s ghost. Even the performers like to dress up! Last year, Brooks Nielson, frontman of The Growlers, sported a full face of attention demanding mime makeup throughout their entire set. In the Constellation Room, Cherry Glazerr showed up onstage in a blood-splattered Kill Bill costume, and Long Beach born Tijuana Panthers dressed up as burglars and definitely stole the show.

4. Pack a bag

Packing a bag is the most important thing on this list. Getting ready for a music festival means stressing out over your outfit, parking and seeing your favorite bands. Make sure you remember to bring your ticket, keys, ID and some empty water bottles to fill up with water once you’re inside the venue. It’s going to be hot! Keep yourself hydrated, and try to protect yourself from the sun by getting a high SPF sunscreen. There are food trucks there with sandwiches and burgers, but be sure to bring some easy to eat snacks, such as granola bars. Try not to bring anything that will get squished like fruit, or yogurts!


5. Take a break and check out the rides

Jumping around and dancing to your favorite bands can get tiring! At the Beach Goth Party, there are carnival rides to the left of the main stage outside. Last year, there was a Flying Dutchman rollercoaster and a deserted island for lost iPhones. There’s also a fun house, which can be a blast to explore with a few of your friends.

6. Know the host

Tom Green is a 44-year-old comedian, talk show host, actor and this year’s Beach Goth host. His career started when he took up stand up comedy, and soared when he was granted his own show on MTV, called “The Tom Green Show.” Unfortunately, he was diagnosed with testicular cancer, but has sinced recovered and returned to acting. He has a lot to bring to the table to Beach Goth this year, and I’m sure he will be better than last years host, Pauly Shore.

7. Rap Battle hosted by Riff Raff and Pauly Shore

Riff Raff, often written as RiFF RAFF, is a staple in hip-hop music, and goes by other names such as, Neon Icon, Peach Panther and Versace Python. On June 24, 2014, Riff Raff released “Neon Icon,” which is his first album of major label Mad Decent.

Pauly Shore is another story. He is a stand up comedian who starred in many comedy films during the 90s. He hosted Beach Goth Party last year and it was a disaster. He brought up a mariachi band on stage from West Covina, and asked them what part of Mexico they were from. Pauly Shore has no background in rap, so hopefully this rap battle runs smoothly.

No matter, how weird or far fetched Beach Goth seems, it’s sure to be a weekend you won’t forget!