Bar Etiquette 101- How to safely make new friends

Winter is here! That means it's getting colder, the days are shorter, and we need to wear warm clothes when we go outside. Make sure you have your winter coat, scarf, gloves, and maybe even a hat to keep your head warm. It’s important to stay warm and safe, especially if you’re going out at night.

Winter can still be a great time to have fun — especially with friends! One fun place to meet people and hang out is at a bar. If you’ve never been to a bar before, or you just want some tips, we’re here to help.

Let’s talk about how to enjoy yourself, make new friends, and stay safe in a bar.

What Is a Bar?

A bar is a place where people go to have a drink, listen to music, and talk to friends. Some bars have dancing, games like pool or darts, or even live music. Not everyone drinks alcohol — and that’s okay! You can get soft drinks like cola or juice or ask for a mocktail (a drink that looks like a cocktail but doesn’t have alcohol).

What to Do in a Bar

Here are some simple things to remember when you're in a bar:

1. Say Hello and Smile

Smiling and saying “Hi!” is a great way to start talking to someone. You can say:

• “Hi, I’m [Your Name] — what’s your name?”

• “Have you been here before?”

• “What kind of music do you like?”

2. Be Polite

Use kind words like please, thank you, and excuse me. Treat people the way you want to be treated.

3. Take Turns Talking

Let others talk too. Try not to talk over someone else. If someone is busy or doesn’t want to talk, that’s okay — you can try talking to someone else.

4. Ask Before Hugging or Touching

Some people don’t like to be touched, and that’s okay. Always ask first: “Can I give you a hug?” or “Is it okay if I sit here?”

5. Know Your Limit

If you drink alcohol, don’t have too much. It can make you feel sick or confused. It’s always okay to say “no thanks” to a drink. You can tell the bartender, “I’d like a soft drink, please.”

How to Make New Friends

Making new friends takes time. Be kind, patient, and open. Try these tips:

• Join in group activities: Dancing, singing karaoke, or playing games at the bar can help you meet people.

• Talk about things you like: Music, TV shows, sports, and hobbies are great topics.

• Be yourself: You don’t have to pretend to be someone you’re not. People like you for who you are.

• Go with your Gig Buddy: Having a buddy can help you feel more confident. You can look out for each other and have fun together!

Staying Safe

• Keep your phone charged and with you.

• Don’t leave your drink alone.

• Always tell someone (like your Gig Buddy Volunteer) where you are going and when you’ll be home.

• If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, tell a bartender, security person, or your Gig Buddy right away.

Have Fun!

Bars can be exciting and a great place to meet people and enjoy music. Remember to stay warm, stay safe, and most importantly — have fun being yourself.

If you’re ever unsure, your Gig Buddy is there to help. That’s what buddies are for!

Celebrating Inclusivity and Diversity: Two Weekends of Live Music That Showcase the Power of People with Disabilities

Over the past two weekends, two remarkable live music events took place, shining a light on the incredible talents and creativity of people with disabilities. These events were more than just performances—they were a celebration of inclusivity, diversity, and potential of individuals who often go unseen in mainstream music scenes. From exciting performances to behind-the-scenes efforts that ensured everyone had a great time; these events were a testament to what happens when creativity and accessibility come together.

The Power of Representation

The first weekend kicked off in collaboration with Auckland Council’s Music in Parks, the event gathered musicians from all walks of life, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces where people with disabilities are not only welcomed but celebrated for their abilities. The event featured up and coming local acts, as well as The Mutes (from mars), a unique professional rock band that draws on the creativity and passion of a group of incredible musicians, writers and performers who have a range of social and learning disabilities. It wasn’t just about showcasing talent—it was about ensuring that those who are often marginalized in traditional music settings had an equal platform to shine.

Breaking Down Barriers

The following weekend brought a similar message, but with an even greater focus on creating an all-encompassing experience. Recreate’s Illuminate Night market made sure that the venue was accessible and even a dedicated sensory-friendly area for attendees with sensory processing needs.

One of the best things of the weekend was the inclusion of a variety of performers specifically, individuals with disabilities. For many of the participants, this was the first time they had been given a chance to perform in front of a live audience. The event gave them the platform and support to showcase their own music and talents, breaking down the barriers that can often prevent access to these opportunities. The results were amazing, as some participants shared their original pieces during the live event, with the awe and appreciation of the audience.

The weekend also highlighted the collaboration between the different organizations and showcased market stalls, food trucks, creative workshops, and family activities, all led by stallholders from diverse abilities or those challenging the status quo. The event demonstrated the power of shared creativity and the beauty that emerges when people with different perspectives come together to create something new.

More Than Just Music: Creating a Movement

What made these two weekends particularly impactful was not just the music, but the conversations they sparked. As people with disabilities took center stage, discussions about access, inclusion, and representation in the music industry were brought to the forefront. These events weren’t just performances—they were platforms for raising awareness, challenging assumptions, and showing the world that creativity knows no boundaries.

Artists with disabilities, both on stage and behind the scenes, demonstrated their resilience, passion, and unmatched creativity. The events made it clear that the music industry needs more inclusive spaces and that disability should never be seen as a limitation. Instead, it is a source of strength, innovation, and unparalleled artistry.

Let’s keep the music playing—and keep breaking down the walls.

Tips for attending events this summer

1.       Dress for Comfort and Weather:

       Summer days can get hot, so ensure you are dressed correctly for the occasion.

Layer up: If you are attending an event in the evening, temperatures can drop, so consider bringing a light jacket or sweater.

Footwear: Comfortable shoes are a must, especially if you’ll be walking or standing for long periods of time.

Check the weather: Although we cannot predict the weather, checking the forecast before attending an event can always be useful to help you prepare.

Sun protection: Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before you head outdoors and reapply regularly throughout the day.

Victoria Park (Music in the parks 2024)

2.       Stay Hydrated:

Summer events can get warm and physically demanding, so it’s Important to stay hydrated. Bring a water bottle with you, and drink water regularly.

Fergusson Domain (Music in the parks 2024)

3.       Arrive Early:

Explore the venue: If it is a large event, arriving early allows you to familiarize yourself with the layout, food stalls, toilets, and emergency exits. It may also give you an opportunity to get setup in a prime spot to enjoy the event.

Fergusson Domain (Music in the parks 2024)

4.       Pack Essentials:

Portable charger: Keep your phone charged for pictures, emergency calls, or coordinating with friends. A portable power bank can be a lifesaver!

Ticket/Pass: Ensure your ticket or entry pass is easily accessible. Whether it is a physical ticket or a digital one on your phone, keep it handy to avoid delays.

Cash or cards: Some events may only accept cash, or there could be smaller vendors without card facilities. It is always helpful to have both as an option.

Victoria Park (Music in the parks 2024)

5. Plan for Parking or Transportation:

Public transport: Check if the venue has public transport options nearby. This can help you determine what time you need to arrive and help you plan your route to the event.

Carpool or ride-share: Consider carpooling or using ride-share apps to reduce stress and make transportation easier, especially if parking is limited.

Arrive early for parking: If you are driving, plan ahead for parking—sometimes the best spots fill up fast, especially at big events.

Victoria Park (Music in the parks 2024)

6. Have a Flexible Schedule:

Events can sometimes run late, or unexpected changes can happen. Stay flexible and open to adjusting your plans as needed.

Fergusson Domain (Music in the parks 2024)

7. Plan for Meals and Snacks:

Food: At large events, food vendors can get busy, so plan your meals around less crowded times if you want to avoid long lines. You can also bring your own snacks if allowed.

Consider food allergies or preferences: If you have dietary restrictions, research the food vendors ahead of time to make sure there are suitable options or consider bringing your own food to ensure you have options.

Victoria Park (Music in the parks 2024)

8. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings:

Whether it is an outdoor festival or an indoor concert, be courteous to the people around you. Respect personal space and be mindful of noise levels, especially during performances or speeches.

If the event is crowded, keep an eye on your belongings, and be aware of your surroundings for safety.

9. Stay Safe:

Know emergency exits: Especially for large events, it is good to know where the emergency exits, first aid stations, and other important facilities are located.

Group coordination: If you are attending with friends, make sure you have a meet-up spot in case you get separated.

Victoria Park (Music in the parks 2024)