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As a long-time raver and late diagnosed autistic, I’ve dialed in the perfect prep process for every festival I attend. If you’re one of the many ravers descending on Phoenix to celebrate New Year’s Eve at Decadence AZ, it’s time to start prepping! One of the biggest things to remember is the desert nights of Arizona can get surprisingly chilly. To lock in a memorable and comfortable experience, here’s a quick guide to staying warm and making the most of this sensational event when you may have a few specific sensory or medical needs to prioritize.
Outfit and Supply Tips
Relentless Beats is taking care of the music, vibes, and excitement, so no need to worry about that. Here are some tips to ensure you are prepared for two incredible nights in the AZ desert.
Layered Clothing: Arizona’s December nights can be shockingly brisk. Make sure you’re considering layers when planning your weekend fits! A great addition to any outfit is a layer of thermal innerwear. If you’ve got options in front of you, opt for moisture-wicking fabrics to stay dry. The past few years have been a tad rainy! Cold is a big trigger for me so I always bring one more layer than I think I need to stave off a sensory meltdown. This year, I’m adding a heated scarf to my setup for an extra boost, just in case.
Comfortable Footwear: While stylish shoes may seem like a must, always prioritize comfort. Choose a reliable pair of closed-toe shoes and consider thermal socks to keep your feet warm. Something I recently discovered is disposable toe warmers! Slide a pair of these bad boys in your shoes, and your dancing feet will be toasty all night long.
Hand Warmers: Speaking of disposable warming options, you’ll always want to take some of the OG disposable hand warmers. They’re a convenient addition to keep in your pockets for instant warmth. If you’re a festival rat like me, you may even want to buy a bulk box and always have them ready for chilly fest nights.
Expert Tips!
As someone who has lived in the Phoenix climate for 30 years and has been attending festivals for 10 years, I have some expert tips to ensure you’re stepping into the desert armed and ready to party night off!
Hydrate and Moisturize: Despite the cooler weather, dehydration is still very much a concern. Drink plenty of water before and during Decadece to combat the desert creeping up on you. I always drink an electrolyte drink on the drive to any festival. Pregamming… but made disabled-friendly! Check out a few of my favorite electrolyte supplements!
Arrive Early: Beat the rush and arrive early to explore the festival grounds. Being able to get a feel for the festival during the daylight will make the evening much easier to navigate. You’ll never know what hidden gems you may stumble upon or what connections you’ll make.
Buddy System: Stay with your friends or group. It’s always a good idea to have a designated meeting spot in case anyone gets lost. Remember, cell service might be spotty with everyone gathering to celebrate.
Stay Informed: Keep an eye on everything Relentless Beats is putting out ahead of Decadence by following them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. A last-minute change could make a big impact on your weekend plans!
Charge Your Devices: Double-check that your phone and other essential gadgets are fully charged before heading out. It’s always a great move to bring an extra battery pack to stay charged up all night. Between recording the sets, lasers, and lights (and trying to find that one friend who always mysteriously wanders off), you may find your phone is nearing 0% faster than you originally planned.
Decadence AZ promises an unforgettable New Year’s celebration with music, lights, and incredible vibes. By preparing with the right outfits and prepping like a skilled raver, you’re set to immerse yourself in the magic while staying warm and comfortable throughout the festivities.
If you’re still at step one, grab your weekend passes here! Cheers to an extraordinary New Year’s Eve and I’ll see you on the dancefloor!
