Head in the Clouds 2025: What to Pack, What to Wear, and What to Expect
We’re officially 57 days away from Head in the Clouds 2025, taking place Saturday, May 31 and Sunday, June 1 at Brookside at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. If this is your first time attending, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. But we know, festivals can be overwhelming—there’s so much to consider: What to pack? What to wear? How to make the most out of your two days of music, culture, and fun?
This guide breaks down the essentials for you, so you can focus on enjoying the festival to the fullest. Whether you’re going for the music, food, or just the overall experience, here’s everything you need to know.
Festival Basics: What to Expect
Before we dive into what you should pack and wear, let’s review some key information so you can plan ahead:
• Location: Brookside at the Rose Bowl - 1001 Rose Bowl Dr, Pasadena, CA 91103
• Dates: Saturday, May 31 & Sunday, June 1, 2025
• Doors Open: 1:00 PM each day
• Curfew: 11:00 PM Saturday, 10:00 PM Sunday
• All Ages Welcome
• Rain or Shine
• Food and Beverages Sold Separately
• Lineup and Set Times Subject to Change
This festival is rain or shine, so you’ll want to plan for both sunshine and potential cool evenings. No re-entry is allowed, so once you’re in for the day, you’re there until the end. Make sure you’ve got everything you need!
What You Should Pack
Packing for a festival is an art form. The goal is to have everything you need without overloading your bag. Here’s a quick rundown of what you should definitely pack for Head in the Clouds 2025.
The Essentials: Bag, Phone, and Hydration
• Bag Policy: The festival allows bags, backpacks, and purses up to 18” x 13” x 8.5”—a perfect size to carry your essentials without feeling weighed down. Fanny packs and small crossbody bags are also a good choice if you prefer to keep it light and simple.
• Hydration: This is essential! You’re going to be outdoors all day, and California heat is no joke. Bring an empty plastic water bottle (64oz or smaller) or hydration packs (empty, plastic only, 2L or less). Don’t forget the hydration powder—packets like Liquid I.V. are great for maintaining your energy throughout the day.
• Phone + Power: Fully charged portable chargers are a must. It’s easy to go through your phone’s battery taking pictures, checking schedules, and keeping in touch with friends. Download the festival’s app for quick access to set times and announcements. And be sure to screenshot your ticket and parking info before arriving—signal can get spotty at crowded festivals.
What to Wear: Comfort and Style
The beauty of festivals is that they give you the opportunity to express yourself. Head in the Clouds is no exception, but comfort is key—you’ll be walking, standing, and dancing for long hours, so you’ll want to strike a balance between looking good and feeling good.
• Light, breathable fabrics: If you’re attending during the daytime, you’ll want to wear fabrics that breathe. Cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking materials are your friends here. Avoid heavy or restrictive clothing.
• Layers: Even though it’s warm during the day, the temperature can drop in the evening. Bring a jacket or light hoodie to keep warm after the sun goes down. Don’t worry if you don’t want to carry it around—lockers are available on a first-come, first-served basis to store your extra layers.
• Comfortable shoes: This is not the time to break in new shoes! Opt for comfortable sneakers or boots that you’ve already worn in. You’ll be walking between stages and standing on your feet for hours, so comfort is paramount.
• Accessories: Festivals are all about expression, so don’t hesitate to throw on some bold accessories, whether it’s a funky hat, statement jewelry, or fun sunglasses. There’s no such thing as overdoing it when it comes to festival fashion.
Survival Tips: Get the Most Out of Your Festival
Now that you’re packed and ready, here are a few additional tips to help you navigate the weekend like a pro:
• Arrive early: If you want a good spot, especially near the main stages, getting there early is key. Plus, you’ll have time to check out the merch and get settled without feeling rushed.
• Make a plan: Head in the Clouds will feature multiple stages and a packed lineup. Download the schedule ahead of time, and prioritize which artists you’re most excited to see. But don’t forget to leave some room for spontaneity—sometimes the best moments happen when you least expect them.
• Stay hydrated and take breaks: This might seem obvious, but it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget to drink water. Keep a water bottle on you at all times, and don’t hesitate to take breaks between sets to rest and recharge.
• Know where to find food: There will be plenty of food options at the festival, but lines can get long. If you’re hungry, plan ahead and either eat early or bring some snacks to hold you over until you can get to the food stands.
• Expect crowds and have patience: Festivals are packed with people, and navigating through them can be tricky. Whether it’s waiting in line, finding your friends, or making your way from one stage to another, remember to take a deep breath, stay patient, and enjoy the experience.
Enjoy the Experience: Be Present
Ultimately, festivals are about having fun, connecting with others, and celebrating music and culture. It’s easy to get caught up in trying to take the perfect photo or check everything off your list, but don’t forget to enjoy the moment. Dance, sing along, meet new people, and let the music carry you away.
Head in the Clouds is more than just a festival—it’s an experience that celebrates music, culture, and creativity. With the right preparation, you’ll be able to make the most out of your weekend and create lasting memories. So get ready for two days filled with incredible performances, amazing food, and a whole lot of fun. See you in Pasadena!
For more information, including full lineup details, accessibility info, and more, visit the official Head in the Clouds website.