Vans Warped Tour 2008
By Carly, age 16, Ohio
Hey kids, it's that time again! Smoldering heat and vendors as far as I can see. What is it that I'm talking about? It's officially time once again for The Vans Warped Tour. For those of you who aren't familiar with this enormous menagerie of fun let me elaborate. Imagine a parking lot or field. Add a few stages to squish the grass and miles of electrical cord taped to the ground. A lot of amps equal a lot of electricity. Line the sidelines with an army of tents, and just beyond them ranks upon ranks of tour buses can be seen. Next just layer in the people, add the sweet dissonance of different genres symbiotically existing, and finally place in an oven to bake at 470 degrees for nine plus hours.
The Vans Warped Tour is a place to see all the current alternative bands. Warped Tour is never exclusive. Cute pop-punk scenesters share the same stage with hardcore guitars, ska trombones, and even some of the old school punks. It's never hard to find something you'll like. Everyone is sure to enjoy.
Since its birth in 1994 Warped Tour has continued to prosper. Kevin Lyman created it intending for it to be a place to exhibit extreme sports with music. Now the tour manages to set up shop in every state at least once throughout the summer months, and now reaches Europe, Canada, and even Australia. The grand event in all its glory now presents itself as a flea market-like atmosphere. Your favorite bands will be in their tents along with many indie labels and non-profit organizations passing out goodies. From humble beginnings The Vans Warped Tour has risen to become one of the most frequented summer tours in history. It's more than worth checking out this year. Here are some of the headlining bands you should check out even if you can't make the tour:
- The Academy Is...
- Against Me!
- Alesana
- Anberlin
- Between the Trees
- Charlotte Sometimes
- Cobra Starship
- The Devil Wears Prada
- Family Force Five
- Forever the Sickest Kids
- From First To Last
- Greely Estates
- HorrorPops
- Katy Perry
- Norma Jean
- Pennywise
- Sky Eats Airplane
- We The Kings
As fun as Warped Tour can be it must be taken seriously to some extent. With summer raging, heat exhaustion and sunburns are not uncommon. Stay prepared. I recommend bringing a small bag. It's easy to store bottles of water, a pair of your favorite Ray-Bans, some sun block, and maybe some deodorant if things are getting a little stinky. Some Band-Aids may not be a bad choice either, as the mosh can get pretty heavy. Either way, no matter where you live or which tour date you choose, it will be hot. So be prepared and stay hydrated. Sweat your little butts off, everyone, and have tons of fun! I guarantee you will.
For more info on buying tickets, bands, or dates visit www.warpedtour.com.
