More people are now realising that it’s perfectly fine to experience things they love on their own, whether that’s dining alone, a solo trip away, or even going to a music concert. What may have once been considered a lonely and daunting prospect, organising a solo experience can actually be a fun, empowering experience that gives you a greater sense of independence.

Whilst solo travel has already made an impact, could attending music concerts and festivals alone be the next experience on the list to try?

Online ticket seller Skiddle spoke to a music fan who has been going to gigs for 16 years by herself. Charlotte Haynes, 35, from London, attended her first concert on her own at the age of 18, purchasing a single ticket to a Kings of Leon show in Hyde Park. The Skiddle team chatted to Charlotte about her experiences attending gigs on her own and what inspired her to go solo.

What made you suddenly decide to start going to concerts and festivals on your own?

“I have done quite a lot of travelling on my own to a number of destinations around the UK and abroad, so that’s what initially inspired me to start attending gigs solo. Because I took the plunge and tried solo travel, an event alone felt like a no-brainer for me. My first gig was close to home in London back in 2009; however, a standout concert for me that was further afield that I recently attended was Beyoncé’s Renaissance Tour back in 2023. I travelled to Edinburgh and splashed out on VIP hospitality tickets to make it a gig I wouldn’t forget.”

Did you have any fears or hesitations before you went alone for the first time?

“I’ve become used to solo travelling and really enjoy it, so I didn’t really have any fears or major concerns when booking a gig or a festival that I would go to alone. I always find that most of the insecurities are in your head, and at the end of the day, who’s going to remember the woman at a festival alone when in reality everyone else is focused on their own fun and having a good time.”

Have you made new friends or connections while at an event alone?

“Yes, I’ve made some great friends that I’ve met at festivals or events I’ve attended alone. I find that you often get chatting to people really easily, especially if you’re in the crowd waiting for the act to come on stage. It’s also really easy to strike up conversations with people in the queue for the toilets or getting food and drinks!”

Has going to an event alone changed your perception of them, and has it changed you as a person?

“I no longer fear or avoid doing things I want to do if I don’t have anyone to go with, where previously the perception of doing something alone is seen as either negative or lonely. Going to festivals, gigs, and even travelling on my own has helped to build my confidence and has made me fearless in a way I can’t describe. It’s great to share experiences with friends and family, but I’ve learned that going solo can be just as rewarding.”

How do you usually describe your experience to friends who haven’t tried attending a concert or festival on their own?

“The only negative responses I’ve ever received are from friends and people projecting about why I’m going alone in the first place. It’s never in a mean-spirited way, and I can tell they’re curious more than anything, not fully understanding why I go to experiences alone, and they can easily do it too.”

Do you have any advice for those who are tempted to book a solo gig, but might be feeling a bit nervous going alone for the first time?

Soak in the atmosphere – I recommend getting there just before the act you’re seeing is scheduled to start, that way you’re not waiting around for too long. Or, watch the support acts to get you in the mood for your solo gig. If you’ve got some time to spare before the concert starts, grab a drink or check out the merch that’s on offer inside.

Book Hospitality – If you’re thinking of going alone to a concert, check out hospitality or VIP tickets. Whilst they’re more expensive compared to general admission tickets, they offer really good views of the stage, drinks and food too. They’re typically less crowded, too, compared to the general admission areas.

Soak in the atmosphere – I recommend getting there just before the act you’re seeing is scheduled to start, that way you’re not waiting around for too long. Or, watch the support acts to get you in the mood for your solo gig. If you’ve got some time to spare before the concert starts, grab a drink or check out the merch that’s on offer inside.

Take pictures and videos – Take plenty of photos and videos of the event to document your experience and share them on your social media. Just because you’re alone doesn’t mean you can’t get yourself in your own pictures. Ask the people around you to take a quick picture for you. It’s a great conversation starter, and I’ve even made friends this way, too.

Don’t overthink it – Remember why you’re at the gig in the first place; you’re there to see the artist. Once the music starts, absolutely no one will care or even notice you’re alone at the gig; they’re far too busy enjoying themselves and making their own memories. Try to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

Commenting on Charlotte’s experience, Jamie Scahill, Director and spokesperson for online ticket and event seller Skiddle said, “I think it’s great that more people are embracing going solo to a wide range of events held across the UK. There’s no reason not to experience a gig or festival solo, after all, the main goal is to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the incredible performance of your favourite artist.”

“Event organisers create a safe, welcoming atmosphere that everyone can enjoy, whether you’re alone, in a couple or with a group of friends. As with all events, it’s important to be aware of your own surroundings to ensure you get the best experience possible. Here’s what I recommend for staying safe when attending an event alone:

Make sure you stay in touch – Share your location with a trusted friend or family member using your phone and check in at regular intervals. Let someone know your travel plans, including how you’re getting home and when you’re expected to get back.

Trust your instincts with your safety – If a situation or person makes you feel uncomfortable, remove yourself and seek out the event security or move to a well-lit, crowded area. Don’t worry about seeming rude; your safety should always come first.

Pack light, keep essentials close – Only take what you need to the event, such as your phone, ID, bank card, and maybe some emergency cash. Use a cross-body bag or bumbag that zips securely and stays close to your body so you’re aware of your belongings at all times.

Know your exits and safe points – On arrival, take a few minutes to locate the exits, security points, medical tents, toilets and any designated safe zones, especially useful in large outdoor festivals or crowded indoor venues.

Pace yourself if you’re drinking – If you’re drinking alcohol, make sure you pace yourself and keep your drink in hand and sight at all times. Make sure you drink water and keep hydrated when you’re in warm environments such as music tents and indoor concerts.”