Indie-rock music festival Shaky Knees has taken Atlanta by storm. It's 2018 lineup has just been announced, which includes rock artists like Jack White, David Byrne and Queens of the Stone Age.
For music fans who are not familiar with the festival, here are a few helpful tips for arriving, eating, playing and staying at Shaky Knees.
» RELATED: Shaky Knees and Shaky Beats music festivals will move to Central Park in 2018
How should I get there?
As with any large Atlanta event, MARTA is your best bet for avoiding traffic. Duck off the train at the North Avenue station for a walk to the park in just under a mile. Civic Center is another option at just over a mile hike. (Takes about 15 minutes.)
Don't forget that while MARTA is a great option, the trains don't run late. If you'd rather drive, you can party longer into the evening. Three large lots are within a half-mile of Shaky Knees, including the Atlanta Civic Center parking lot and the lots at 121 Linden Avenue and 463 Peachtree Street. Ridesharing is also an easy option.
What can I bring?
Bring your ticket so that it can be converted into a wristband for the weekend, which will allow you to come and go from the festival as you please. Small backpacks are fine, but they will be subject to search. Don't forget an empty water bottle and sunscreen. Wheelchairs and ADA motorized wheelchairs are also permitted.
Bring your phone for taking pictures and finding friends, but not for recording video. You can also download the Shaky Knees App for a map, schedule, live updates and more. Some preliminary feedback on the app indicates the map is very small, so you might also want to print a copy to keep in your back pocket.
Leave Fido at home - no dogs are allowed. Forget the umbrella, too. If the weather looks skittish then pack a disposable poncho in your backpack. No glow sticks, no chairs and no coolers. No alcohol either, but if you're looking to have your own party, Green's on Ponce is your closest bet.
Thinking of bringing the kiddo? Children under 8 years old are permitted free of charge with an adult. The concert recommends against bringing kids this young, though.
»RELATED: Photos: Shaky Knees 2017
What can I eat and drink?
Shaky Knees will have a plethora of food trucks inside the ticketed area, so don't worry about going hungry. Several food trucks take credit cards, but everyone knows that cash is the faster answer. You'll find ATMs stationed around the park; be kind to the hungry people behind you and get some cash. Be kind to yourself, and get cash before you arrive. ATM lines at concert venues are notoriously long and often run out of money.
Visitors can bring in one empty water bottle or a factory-sealed water bottle. You'll find hydration stations around the park for refilling your drink. If you're looking for something stronger than water then hit one of the seven bars within the ticketed area.
You'll find plenty of food and drink options outside the park also. Fuel up from a late night at Dancing Goats Coffee Bar at Ponce City Market, with locally roasted organic caffeine options and tasty breakfast nibbles. If you prefer something sweeter then head to the Krispy Kreme at Argonne and Ponce.
Restaurant options within a mile of the park include Nancy's Pizza, Mary Mac's Tea Room with great southern fare, Papi's Caribbean Cuisine and Aloha Chinese and Sushi. Late night diners and drinkers meet up at Poor Calvin's for Thai fusion and great drinks or Midtown Tavern for pub food and a killer patio. If you want to get your Pub sub fix, the Publix at Piedmont and North is your go-to for sandwiches to-go.
Where should I stay?
Discounted hotel rates for are available through Westin Peachtree Plaza for Shaky Knees attendees; the Midtown location is closest to the festival. Other downtown options with special rates include Aloft Atlanta Downtown, AC Hotel Marriott Atlanta Downtown. Get a full scope of the Atlanta hotel deals for Shaky Knees here.
Camping in the festival is not permitted, and there are no nearby campgrounds. Airbnb offers affordable alternatives to hotel stays. Look for something in the Midtown or Old Fourth Ward neighborhoods.
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