Plan a perfect Waterfront Show with these 5 Pointers
Picture the sun setting over the water as you join in with your favorite bands playing live, creating an electrifying atmosphere that enhances the vibrant musical vibe. Waterfront shows are trending events, offering a unique charm that sets them apart from traditional live performances.
The natural beauty of a waterfront setting captivates audiences while enhancing the sense of community and connection. Hosting an outdoor concert at the water’s edge creates unforgettable moments, making it an experience that musicians and fans eagerly embrace.
By planning your waterfront show well, it’ll likely be the first of many performances you host in the years to come. The following pointers can help you create a live event like no other.
1. Choose the Right Location
You may still be some way from booking out the Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park in Portland, OR, for your live show on the water. However, the venue is a prime example of what concertgoers will enjoy, along with some great sounds. With lots to see and experience, revelers can arrive early, enjoy a meal and take in some sights and activities.
Selecting the ideal location for your waterfront show will significantly impact its success. The quintessential venue should be easily accessible — think ramps and railings for dock venues — accommodate your expected audience size and provide breathtaking scenic views. The venue should enhance the visual appeal and offer ample space for attendees to enjoy the music while they grab a bite to eat and partake in some hearty beverages.
2. Plan for Weather Conditions
The weather can be an unpredictable factor when hosting a live event. Make contingency plans beforehand to ensure unexpected rain showers and gusting winds don’t put a damper on your show. Consider setting up tents to protect your audience and your valuable equipment. That way, you’ll keep the music pumping no matter the conditions.
Advertise your backup rain plan on social media, including clear communication with concertgoers to encourage them to attend, regardless of the weather. By being proactive, you can keep the entertainment live and flowing to create a memorable experience for everyone involved.
3. Consider Your Sound and Equipment
Sound quality in an open-air setting presents a range of challenges, including distorted audio and diminished clarity. Investing in high-quality sound equipment, running prior sound checks, setting up your equipment properly — including strategic speaker placement — and monitoring your volume to comply with local regulations will go a long way in ensuring sound that is acoustically resonant and comfortable for your audience.
Use sound barriers and monitor the wind conditions to maintain audio integrity. Knowing and using a professional sound engineer to adjust volume levels and EQ during the show, while also dealing with any necessary troubleshooting, is a distinct benefit. By prioritizing sound quality, you create an immersive experience that captivates music lovers.
4. Be Safety Conscious
Before hosting a waterfront show, consider all the necessary safety measures to protect the show’s supporters and performers. Obtaining the relevant permits and insurance coverage will ensure that your venue is legally safe and that you have the relevant crowd control strategies and emergency plans in place.
These permits exist for a reason and confirm your ability to host your event. If you’re expecting over 1000 revelers for your show, you’ll require greater permissions. For example, in New Orleans, events exceeding that amount necessitate emergency medical and security coverage. Putting safety first with a well-thought-out plan prevents mishaps and fosters a secure environment for everyone to enjoy the event.
5. Engage Your Audience
Remember that your followers will start arriving long before your waterfront show begins. It may be helpful to get creative with the pre-show atmosphere, depending on what the venue offers. Engaging the audience early by incorporating interactive elements, such as a photo booth with a stunning waterfront backdrop, encourages your fans to capture and share their moments on social media.
You might offer pre-show activities — such as live art demonstrations or local food tastings — to create excitement and involve the local community. Most of all, warm up your fan base as they arrive with a lively playlist to encourage revelers to dance and party before the main event starts. That way, when you hit the stage, you’ll have an invested audience ready to participate fully in the live music you offer them.
Plan Thoroughly for a Memorable Waterfront Show
You want your waterfront show to be a unique and captivating experience for the participating musicians and supportive followers. By choosing a pristine location, planning for unpredictable weather, producing memorable sound and prioritizing safety, you can create an unforgettable event. Engage your audience in ways that make their experience extraordinary.
The beauty of the perfect waterfront venue will allow your creativity to shine. Support for your future shows will grow, fueled by the lasting memories you create with your first one.